Tuesday, January 6th, 2026
By Gary R. Rasberry
Photo by Gary R. Rasberry/The Daily Standard
Celina senior Paiton Rhodes will attend the University of Saint Francis and play softball for the Cougars.
Paiton Rhodes, a senior from Celina, has made an exciting decision about her future. She will attend the University of Saint Francis to pursue nursing and play softball for the Cougars.
Nursing was her top priority. “Saint Francis is ranked No. 2 in Indiana for nursing. That was a big draw for me,” she shared. She added that having a competitive softball program was a bonus that made her decision easier.
“Helping people in the medical field has always been a dream of mine,” said Rhodes. Her commitment to the Cougars solidifies her path as both a student and an athlete.
Last season, the Cougars finished strong with a 29-21 record, showing promise in the Crossroads League. Rhodes is excited about the experience of head coach Ryan Bolyn, who has been leading the team for 20 seasons. “They understand that many students have demanding schedules, and they have plans in place to support us,” she explained.
Rhodes’ performance last year was impressive. She caught all 155 innings for the Bulldogs, contributing to a 19-4 record and a Western Buckeye League championship. She boasted a batting average of .342, hitting five doubles and earning 18 RBIs. Her leadership behind the plate has been crucial, as her coaches emphasized its importance. “It makes a big difference in my position,” she noted.
Current statistics show that nursing is a growing field. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for registered nurses is expected to grow by 6% from 2021 to 2031. This makes pursuing a nursing degree a smart choice for students like Rhodes. As she embarks on this journey, her passion for both academics and athletics shines brightly.
