Clinton Athletes in College: Taelor “Rae Rae” York
By Datti Jinkiri
Taelor York finished her Clinton Christian Academy career as one of the school’s top athletes ever. She was an All-District selection in fast pitch softball, basketball, and track and field.
Though she showed much promise in those three sports, York ultimately chose softball as the sport to pursue at the next level. She had, after all, helped lead the Warriors to their first MAIS Class 3A Softball Championship in school history in 2019. She ultimately signed to play for Pearl River Community College at the next level.
Taelor “Rae Rae” York (Photo Courtesy of Pearl River CC Athletics)
In her first season in Poplarville, York became an instant contributor to the Wildcats. The shortstop was a mainstay in the team’s lineup, playing in 40 of the team’s 42 games.
She was also at the top or near the top of a plethora of the team’s offensive categories. She had a batting average of .343, which was good enough for third highest on the team. She had 51 hits (second on team) and drove in 13 runs in the process.
York also tallied 11 extra base hits, as she bagged eight doubles (third) and three triples (tied for first). She had three hits in three different games this season.
While clearly impressive with the bat in her hands, York was also a threat on the basepaths. The speedster was tied for the team lead with ten stolen bases. She also scored a team-high 42 runs.
On top of her offensive contributions, York was able to chip in defensively. She was second on the team with 44 assists from her customary shortstop position.
York’s solid debut season ended with her being a Mississippi Association of Community Colleges Conference (MACCC) Honorable Mention selection. She was one of four Wildcats to earn MACCC recognition this past season.
York’s prowess helped lead the team to a 27-15 record and an appearance in the MACCC Tournament. However, the team went 0-2 at the tournament and crashed out of the tournament early. The Wildcats matched their win total from the 2019 season (the team’s last full season) but will be looking to improve on that mark next year. York, along with former CCA grad Makiya Hunter, will be among the key returners for the Wildcats next season.
