For Omaha native Tenley Kampbell, softball has always been more than just a game, it’s been her community, her challenge, and her constant source of joy. Now, as the Millard North High School standout and Nebraska Gold National Swift slugger looks ahead to the next chapter of her career, she’s found a home with the Tulsa Golden Hurricanes.
For Tenley, the decision wasn’t made on a whim. It came down to comfort, connection, and a gut feeling that the University of Tulsa was where she belonged.
“Felt Like Home from the First Time I Went”
When Kampbell first set foot on Tulsa’s campus, she knew it was special.
“The campus felt like home from the first time I went,” she said. “With a beautiful campus and a smaller enrollment size, it made a bigger city like Tulsa feel small. The players and coaches were also very welcoming and easy to work with.”
That balance of the intimacy of a tight-knit campus combined with the energy of a larger city, helped seal the deal. For a player used to the strong sense of community in Omaha, Tulsa offered that same close, family feel.
The Coaches Who Believed in Tenley Kampbell
Tulsa head coach Crissy Strimple and her staff played a major role in Tenley’s recruitment, taking the time to build a genuine connection with her both on and off the field.
“The staff was able to watch a good amount of my club games over the summer and then invited me to a camp toward the end of summer,” she recalled. “When September hit they reached out and we got a visit set up after that!”
It was the kind of thoughtful recruiting process that spoke volumes to Tenley Kampbell, not about pressure or promises, but about relationships and trust.
Built by Family and Hard Work
Behind every athlete is someone who helped light the spark. For Tenley, that person has always been her dad.
“My dad has been a huge inspiration for me,” she said. “I’ve grown up watching him put his all into everything he does no matter what. He’s always the first one willing to help me with whatever I need and take me to hit whenever I ask.”
That tireless dedication and support has shaped who Tenley Kampbell is as both a player and a person. She’s learned that success isn’t handed to you but it’s built through repetition, grit, and a willingness to keep showing up.
Gold Standard Experience
Tenley Kampbell’s growth on the diamond has been supercharged by her time with Nebraska Gold National Swift, one of the premier travel programs in the Midwest. Competing against elite talent and under top-tier coaching, she’s sharpened both her skills and mindset.
“Getting to play for Nebraska Gold has been one of the best experiences of my life!” she said. “My teammates are my best friends and we love to compete together. My coaches are some of the best around and are the perfect mixture of working hard and having fun while doing it. Having a strong relationship with my team and coaches on and off the field has taught me more than I could ever ask.”
That balance of hard work and fun, along with strong team chemistry has prepared her perfectly for the next level.
Looking Ahead to Tulsa
As she looks forward to officially joining the Golden Hurricanes, Tenley is eager to embrace everything that comes with college life.
“I’m most looking forward to getting to know my new team and environment!” she said. “I’m excited to make some new friendships and experience living in a different city. I also can’t wait to attend the school’s other sporting events.”
It’s clear that for Kampbell, this isn’t just about softball, it’s about immersing herself in a new community, learning from new experiences, and growing both on and off the field.
“Reign Cane!”
The Golden Hurricane faithful can already sense they’re getting a competitor who brings passion, leadership, and heart. Kampbell can’t wait to put on that blue and gold uniform and represent her new home.
“I love to compete and I can’t wait to rep the blue and gold!!” she said enthusiastically. “Reign Cane!”
From Omaha, Nebraska to Tulsa, Oklahoma, Tenley Kampbell’s journey is a story of connection, family, and faith in the process. With her talent, work ethic, and infectious energy, she’s poised to make waves for the Golden Hurricanes.
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