Brooke Paalhar is a senior at Kearney High School and the daughter of Sara and Andy Paalhar. She has one sibling, Jackson. A standout multi-sport athlete, Brooke has made a lasting impact on Kearney athletics, rewriting the record books in basketball, softball, and track.
In addition to her success on the softball field, Brooke has earned all-conference, all-district, and all-state honors in basketball. Brooke (Senior Year) was also named Conference Player of the Year and District Player of the Year, further highlighting her dominance on the court. In track and field, she qualified for the state meet in the javelin.
One of her most notable achievements is holding the Missouri state record for career hits in Class 4 and 5. She was also named Offensive Player of the Year (Earl Award). At Kearney, Brooke set program records for career hits, doubles, and RBIs, and as a junior, she broke single-season records for both RBIs and doubles. By the end of her senior season, she held seven school records.
Her performance helped lead the Kearney Bulldogs to four consecutive district titles during her high school career. A three-time all-state selection, Brooke was also part of the 2022 state championship team.
At the club level, playing for the Louisville Lady Sluggers, Brooke was a Colorado Sparkler Co-Champion and helped her team earn a third-place finish at Triple Crown Nationals.
“Brooke is a dynamic lefty hitter who brings both speed and power,” said University of Utah Head Coach Amy Hogue. “She’s a versatile utility player who can contribute in both the infield and outfield. Her high softball IQ, competitiveness, and leadership make her a rare talent. We’re thrilled to have her join our program.”
Brooke plans to continue her athletic and academic career at the University of Utah this fall, where she intends to major in radiology and pursue a career in the medical field. Outside of sports, she enjoys traveling, spending time with loved ones, and mentoring younger athletes—something she values deeply after once looking up to older players herself.
