Meet the Freshman: Kaylee Hitt

Introducing one of Vanderbilt's newest Commodores

by Rod Williamson

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Kaylee Hitt is the first Kentucky native ever on Vanderbilt’s roster.

The Cold Spring, Kentucky product is a strong student, accumulating a weighted 5.2 GPA at Campbell County High School in Kentucky. She is a member of the National Honor Society, the BETA Honor Society, the Economics Club, an AP Scholar and was named the 2021 Kentucky High School Female Student-Athlete of the Year. She tallied over 100 hours of community service.

On the lanes, Hitt has a long list of accomplishments among them being an eight-time Kentucky Youth Bowlers Tour champion (the most titles by an individual) and having several high finishes at the Junior Gold – including seventh in 2018.

Hitt was the 2019 Junior Master Champion, the 2020 Cincinnati Enquirer Bowler of the Year and the 2021 Kentucky Pepsi Champion. She was a four-year high school team captain, leading the team to the 2020 state title.

Immediate family and occupations: Father (Josh Hitt), bowling pro shop owner and operator, mother (Nicole Hitt), collateral manager at Fifth Third Bank, brothers Austin (20) and JD (14).

Age I began to bowl: 3, competitively at 13.

Who got me started with bowling? My grandfather.

Favorite musical performer: Blake Shelton.

Nobody can believe I watch this TV show: Greys Anatomy.

Favorite thing about myself: My work ethic.

Favorite sport other than bowling: Basketball.

Biggest misconception about bowling or bowlers: There is not a lot of time and effort than go into it.

Favorite athlete to watch in another sport: Serena Williams.

Talent I’d most like to have: Play guitar.

Favorite aspect of Nashville: The music.

Ultimate vacation destination: Greece.

The person(s) I admire most: My father.

Career goal outside of bowling: Lawyer.

The best advice I’ve received: It’s not over ‘til it’s over.

The COVID-19 pandemic has taught me: Not taking opportunities for granted and the importance of spending time with your family.

I choose Vanderbilt because: Vanderbilt’s academic reputation made it very appealing to me. That along with the opportunity to compete for a bowling program with historical success made my choice easy