West Washington is proud to congratulate Layla Manship on her recent commitment to play collegiate softball at Bethel University in Mishawaka, Indiana. Senator Nation could not be more thankful for the example Layla has set for our future student-athletes. Her dedication to excellence highlights the kind of leadership, work ethic, and character we strive to develop in all of our student-athletes.
Academic Achievements: Layla has maintained a GPA above 4.0 throughout her high school career and is currently sitting at a 4.43. She has been recognized as a top student in almost all of her classes for the past three years. When Layla graduates, she will have completed 11 dual credit courses. She has also completed AP Biology and AP U.S. History.
School Involvement: Layla participates in a variety of clubs and organizations. She is a member of the National Honor Society and serves as President of the Student Council, SADD, and FCA.
Extracurricular Activities: Layla participates in both basketball and softball, with softball being her true passion. She earned All-Conference and Second Team All-State in softball last season. She has very high hopes for her team this year:
“Each year I have been in high school, we have gone further in the postseason than the year before. Last year, we secured a regional title, and this year we are going even further! Very high hopes and expectations for the 2026 season!”
Service Projects and Special Activities: Layla has a very selfless personality, which is evident through her volunteer work:
“I have worked with children at Camp Invention and at Norah’s Crusaders events. At Camp Invention, I spent a week assisting with classroom management and helping students with their projects alongside a West Washington teacher. At Norah’s Crusaders events, I worked with children using American Sign Language, teaching them songs and common signs. With three years of ASL experience, I was able to share skills that are both meaningful and beneficial.”
Future Plans: The future is bright for Layla, and we all look forward to watching her pursue her dreams:
“After high school, I will double major in Business Management and Marketing, with a minor in American Sign Language at Bethel. I hope to one day own my own business, and from the start, Bethel felt like the perfect place to grow both academically and personally. They offer American Sign Language as a major and minor, something many colleges do not, and once I learned that, I knew I had to visit campus. From the moment I stepped foot there, I felt at home.
Playing college softball has been a dream of mine since I was a little girl, and Bethel checked every box: the coaching staff, the team culture, the campus, and the overall atmosphere. Meeting my future teammates was truly special and confirmed that this is where I am meant to continue my journey.”
How has West Washington prepared you for future plans? Layla is proud to be a Senator and gratefully reflects on her experiences:
“West Washington has given me all the tools I need to succeed in college and in life. Academically, I am incredibly blessed to have had such talented teachers who have challenged me, supported me, and prepared me for what comes next. The administrators here are truly amazing and have made it possible for me to receive such a strong education. Athletically, I have learned what it truly means to be part of a team: putting others before yourself and giving everything you have for the people beside you. Through sports, I have found some of my lifelong friends, and I will forever cherish the bonds I’ve formed and the lessons I’ve learned from my teammates and coaches.”
Coach Powers Comments on Layla: Head Softball Coach Brittney Powers recognizes the lasting impression Layla has left on her teammates and coaches:
“Layla is the kind of player every coach hopes to have. She has a high softball IQ, strong leadership skills, and a great understanding of the game. I trust her in big moments, and I trust her perspective when she speaks up about what our team needs in practice or during a game. Bethel is getting a competitor and a leader who will make an immediate impact on their program. I’m so excited to see what she accomplishes at the next level. Senator Softball is honored to have had her as our field general behind the plate.”
Layla’s journey is a true reflection of hard work, leadership, and character. West Washington wishes her the very best as she continues her academic and athletic career at Bethel University.
