As a freshman at Pawnee High School, Preslie Heisler is already making her presence felt across multiple sports, competing in basketball, softball, and track with a competitive edge shaped by her teammates and role models.
Heisler plays center and post on the basketball court, while contributing in left field and at catcher for the softball team. No matter the sport, she brings energy and physicality, inspired by players she admires at the highest level.
“Hailey Van Lith and Sophie Cunningham. I look up to these two players because in my opinion, they are the best and I love how they play aggressive.”
That same aggressive style has helped Heisler grow quickly in her first year of high school athletics. She credits her teammates as her biggest source of daily motivation, pushing her to improve and compete at a higher level.
“My teammates motivate me a lot.”
Her development hasn’t come by accident. Heisler points to consistent practice and strong coaching as key factors in her early success.
“A lot of practice and how the coaches actually coach and care.”
One of her favorite memories so far came during basketball season, when Pawnee advanced to regionals alongside a group she’ll never forget.
“My highlights of the basketball season would be going to regionals with the best team I have ever played with.”
Heisler also embraces competition, especially in rivalry matchups against Morrison, where the back-and-forth history adds extra intensity. In practice, she enjoys going one-on-one with teammate Lola, whose presence makes practices both competitive and fun.
Off the court, Heisler stays involved in Beta Club and works to balance academics with athletics by staying ahead on assignments.
“I make sure I get my work before every basketball game and every softball game and I make sure I get it done before I get into the school building the next day.”
She also appreciates the support system around her, especially from teachers like Mrs. Clymer, who helps her stay positive through challenges.
Representing Pawnee is something she doesn’t take lightly.
“For me, it means a lot to play for Pawnee High School for any sport that I do.”
