The Oklahoma sports community is grieving the loss of 16-year-old Kella Cruikshank of Oklahoma City, who died in an accident this week.
Kella was a standout athlete, wearing jersey #29 and playing multiple positions — pitcher, first base, and third base — for FURYous GameTime 2K15 Premier. She was also a member of Elba High School’s varsity volleyball team. Known for her talent and dedication on the field, Kella was equally celebrated for her bright spirit and the friendships she built through sports.
Her softball team, Gametime 2K15 Premier, shared an emotional tribute:
“To say it’s been an overwhelmingly heavy day in the Oklahoma travel softball community would be an understatement. Kella loved playing softball, but more importantly she loved all of the friends she made, whether teammates or opponents. She will be missed by all those who stepped on a field with her.”
A prayer vigil in Kella’s memory will be held on Sunday, September 21, at 3:00 p.m. at the Gametime Stars Facility, 4101 SE 85th St, Oklahoma City, OK 73135. Friends, teammates, and community members are invited to gather in her honor.
Catalyst Sports also extended condolences to the Cruikshank family, urging the community to surround them with support during this unimaginable time.
In addition, a GoFundMe campaign has been launched to help the family with expenses. Organizers described Kella as “the heart and soul of our team. Her joy and laughter would always brighten up your day. Kella loved her family and her teammates with everything she had. Tragically she was taken away from us far too soon.”
Kella’s sudden passing has left a deep void in the hearts of those who knew her, both on and off the field.