Nicolet National Bank Senior Spotlight

Parents’ names: Natasha Kolbet and JJ Simpson
Siblings: Elijah Simpson, Hayden Simpson, Pahyton Simpson, and Sebastian Simpson
Position or events: Softball Middle Infield (shortstop and second) and outfield. Basketball guard and wing
Instagram: @addyson._simpson
Career Highlight: Three-time FRCC All-Conference Softball Player. I was a player on both the 2023 State Champion and 2024 State Runner-up basketball teams.

How did you get started playing your sport?

I used to play tee-ball when I was three years old and then baseball until I was five, where I played on the same teams with my brother Sebastian. Then I got tired of playing with the boys and switched to softball when I was six. In basketball, I started playing in the third grade.

How has the balance between academics and athletics changed for you from freshman to senior year?

Freshman year, I was mostly just running on adrenaline to keep up, but by senior year, I’ve learned how to turn that energy into actual discipline. My parents definitely set the tone for me early on; they taught me that a strong work ethic isn’t something you turn on and off, it’s just how you do things. Throughout my time in school, my teachers really helped reinforce that by pushing me to stay organized even when my schedule got crazy. Because of that support, I’ve been able to keep my grades high while staying competitive in sports. It’s been a lot of work, but those habits have really set me up for whatever comes next.

What is your favorite part of this sport?

My favorite part of playing softball is interacting with my teammates on defense. I love having conversations in between batters with the infield. In basketball, it is the defense and just getting after it.

What is the most challenging part of this sport?

In both softball and basketball, the most challenging part is definitely the mental aspect. Since these games are built more on failure than success, it can be really tough to snap out of a bad mindset after a few rough games. I’ve learned that the key is staying level-headed, trying not to get too high when things are going great, and staying positive when they aren’t going my way. Keeping that steady focus, no matter what the scoreboard says, is definitely the hardest but most important part of the game.

What has been your most memorable experience in high school sports so far?

Basketball-wise, when I was on JV, getting pulled out of the game after making a three-pointer and then hitting the griddy. My JV coach was so mad at me. In softball, I hit a grand slam during a fall tournament to put my team ahead in the last inning.

Do you have a bucket list goal that pertains to your sport?

In softball, as a team, to finish the regular season with a winning record. To make a serious playoff run. Individually, it would be nice to get over 100 hits, which have not been accomplished at NDA for some time. In basketball, it’d be nice to make a run at state and see what we can do.

Do you have any pre-game rituals/routines/superstitions?

On game days, I go to hit in the batting cages with my dad to mentally prepare myself for my at-bats at the plate.

Dream vacation destination?

I want to go to Italy to eat tons of pasta and gelato!

Favorite food?

My favorite food is fettuccine alfredo with broccoli.

Random fun fact about you?

I am a cat whisperer and I can tame stray cats.

Any hobbies outside of your sport?

I am a dog grooming apprentice, and I also enjoy photography and video editing.

Favorite movie/TV show?

The Dark Knight.

Any memorable coaches or teammates you’d like to shout out?

My most memorable coach is Chris Nelson “Nelly” because he taught me that it is okay to make mistakes and to focus on the positive rather than the negative.

Future Plans? (college, major, career, etc.)

I plan to attend Savannah State University, where I will get to play softball. I plan on majoring in Biology/Pre-Med. I would like to be an ophthalmologist or optometrist.