Cayla Kessinger

Classroom

Kessinger carries a 3.25 cumulative grade point average. During her academic career, she has earned SEC Academic Honor Roll accolades three times.

In five of her past six semesters, she has earned a 3.3 grade point average or better.

Character

Kessinger exudes energy and passion, and it can be seen on the field. During her time on campus at Missouri, she has always prided herself in her selfless character, evidenced by being a dedicated friend, fervent teammate, and being active in the community.

She grew the Mizzou Softball vs. Baseball charity game, collecting donations and raising money for the Columbia Food Pantry.

Honest and loyal, Kessinger is willing to make sure the team sticks together. She has been faced with adversity during her five-year career, including multiple athletic injuries. Kessinger has overcome all injuries for her teammates and fans. She wants to build those around her up to make everyone better as a unit.

Community

Kessinger has volunteered for Mizzou Softball youth clinics, post game meet and greets with fans, and Mizzou Moves with Columbia Elementary Schools. She is among the SEC leaders in community service hours logged.

Organizations Kessinger has volunteered for include: Thompson Center for Autism, Representation Thru Reading, Mizzou Youth Experience, VA Service events, elementary schools, hospital visits, and food banks.

Competition

In the shortened 2020 season, Kessinger hit a team-best .429 to earn 2020 Softball America second-team All-American honors. She also tallied 17 runs scored, four doubles, two triples, six home runs, and 32 RBI (9th in NCAA). Kessinger finished in the top-10 in SEC in average, hits, RBI, slugging percentage, and total bases.

In 2018, Kessinger earned second-team All-SEC and NFCA first-team Southeast All-Region honors, becoming only one of three all-time Tigers to garner first team recognition.