Daphne senior Kalyse Hill announced her commitment to the University of Mount Olive as the three-time defending state wrestling champion in the 132-pound division.

Hill’s most recent individual title helped the Trojans take home their third team state championship in the last four years with two other individual champs and two more runners-up. Last summer, she represented Baldwin County as part of Team Alabama at USA Wrestling’s Junior National tournament in Fargo, North Dakota.

“Wrestling has been such a huge part of my life, and I couldn’t be more grateful for this opportunity to continue my journey at the next level,” Hill wrote on social media Monday night. “This wouldn’t have been possible without the amazing support system I’ve had from day one. To all those who have cheered me on, pushed me, and believed in me — you mean the world to me.”

Daphne was among the Baldwin County teams that helped push girls’ wrestling participation to earn sanctioning from the Alabama High School Athletic Association. The 2024-25 school year will be the first where Blue Map trophies will be awarded to team champions.

After that, Hill will be set to wrestle for the Mount Olive Trojans who compete in Division II’s Conference Carolinas. Last season, the team saw a program-record seven individuals qualify for the national tournament where two wrestlers earned All-American distinction en route to a ninth-place team finish.

In her commitment announcement, Hill was also sure to share tokens of appreciation with her parents, coaches and teammates.

“A special shout-out to my parents, Mom & Dad — you’ve shown me what true love and sacrifice look like. None of this would be possible without your endless support, trips all over the country, and always believing in my dreams. I’m so lucky to have you both by my side,” Hill wrote. “To my coaches, especially Coach Jefcoat, Will, and River — thank you for pushing me beyond my limits and making me the wrestler I am today. Also to (Prime Development) for training me throughout the season and to the other clubs that I wrestled at during the summer.

“To my teammates from Daphne HS & Team Alabama — you’re my second family, and I’m proud to have fought alongside you,” Hill continued. “A huge thank you to the admin and teachers at Daphne HS for always having my back. My parents have taught me that it takes a village, and I’m living proof of that. Here’s to the next chapter! Let’s go, Trojans!”