Elkins, W.Va. – Davis & Elkins College Athletics proudly continues its Alumni Spotlight series by featuring Kayla Huckaby-Novick '16, a former standout member of the Senators women's swimming program. The series highlights the journeys and achievements of D&E alumni, celebrating their impact in athletics, academics, and their professional communities.

Full Name: Kayla Huckaby-Novick

Grad Year: 2016

Sport(s) Played: Women's Swimming

Coach: Head Coach Nikki Rose

Major/Degrees: Bachelor's degree in Sports Management with minors in Athletic Training and Business

Current Job Title & Employer: Self-employed business owner at Total Stretch and Wellness, working as a sports therapist

Location: Morgantown, W.Va.

Favorite Memory as a Senator?
"Where to begin… swapping out record boards at the end of my senior year has to take the cake. The feeling of coming back after an injury your senior year knowing you left it all on the table and grew so much from your experience. And trudging through the snow to get to practice at 5:30 a.m. knowing you were late, but the whole team (and every other athlete) is going through the same thing, so it's mutual commiseration."

How did your time as a part of D&E Athletics impact your life/career?
"After taking a redshirt due to a shoulder injury my junior year, I realized there are ways to prevent athletes from going through the same thing. I've made it my goal to help other athletes feel strong and capable in their bodies so they can continue doing the sport they love. It's not easy to sit on the sidelines. If I didn't have my experience as an athlete, I wouldn't be in the position to help other athletes.

I had the support of my team, my coach, and my professors during that time. I learned an incredible amount about the human body in my time at D&E and shifted my mindset to preventative work instead of a 'go hard or go home' mentality. It's allowed me to work with weekend warriors, Division I, and professional athletes alike to keep them healthy."

What advice do you have for current student-athletes?
"Don't take any moment for granted. The people you have surrounding you and the sport you put so much time and effort into are everything you need in this moment. You'll create lifelong friendships and learn from so many experiences during this time. Take them, enjoy them, and grow with them.

Also, don't forget to stretch :)"

Favorite Game-Day Tradition or Pregame Ritual?
"I listened to 'Bodies' by Drowning Pool before every breaststroke event because it set the pace for every race. Intense song choice, I know… but if you know me, it checks out!"

Davis & Elkins College Athletics looks forward to highlighting more alumni in the coming weeks, sharing the stories of former Senators who continue to excel in athletics, leadership, and their fields well beyond their time in Elkins. Let this series celebrate the lasting value of the D&E student-athlete experience and its continued impact across generations.