Grade: Sophomore
Age: 16
Sports: Softball
Claim to fame/honors: In one week she went 13 for 18 at the plate (.722 average and 1.056 slugging percentage) with nine runs, three doubles and her first over-the-fence homer; she also pitched five innings, allowing just one run and striking out eight; hitting .545 for the season with 25 RBI through 16 games
Bet you didn’t know: I’m the oldest of four siblings
Words I live by: “Control the controllables.” Softball and life can throw a lot at you, but I’ve learned to focus on what I can control: my attitude, my effort, and my response. That mindset helps me stay locked in no matter the situation.
Toughest opponent: Myself. I constantly push to be better and set high expectations for myself, both on and off the field. Sometimes the biggest challenge isn’t the other team, it’s staying confident, letting go of mistakes, and not overthinking. I’m learning that growth comes from trusting my preparation and focusing on the next pitch, the next play, the next opportunity.
Biggest influence: My dad and Sis Bates
Game-day ritual: Listening to music to get in my zone.
What’s on my bedroom walls: The University of Washington. It’s a daily reminder of my goals and the level I want to reach. I’ve looked up to their program for years, especially the way they carry themselves with confidence and heart. It motivates me to put in the work every single day.
When I’m bored I like to: Take a nap
Favorite movie: Scream
Person who would play me in a movie: Lindsay Lohan. People say I look like her.
Favorite TV show: The Rookie
Favorite musical artist: Jessie Murph
I can’t live without: My family. They’re my biggest supporters, always in my corner no matter what. Whether I’m having a good game or struggling, they’re the first ones cheering me on and picking me back up.
Most important trait in a person: Honesty
Event I’d love to attend: The Women’s College World Series
Favorite book: The Bible
Favorite home-cooked meal: Chicken Alfredo
Favorite restaurant: Taco Bell
Profession I respect most: Teaching. It takes patience, dedication, and heart to help others learn and grow. Teachers make such a lasting impact, not just in school but in life, and I want to be one someday.
Favorite cereal: Cap’n Crunch
Store I’d want a shopping spree at: Plato’s Closet
If I were an animal, I’d be a: Monkey
I’d love to trade places for a day with: Sis Bates
Historical figure I’d like to meet: Rosa Parks
Place I’d love to travel: Hawaii
Talent I wish I had: Singing
Favorite school subject: Math
Favorite team: University of Washington softball
Favorite athlete: Sis Bates. She’s everything I admire in a player. She’s the best shortstop to ever play, loud, fearless and a true leader on and off the field. She plays the game with so much energy and heart, and I’ve always looked up to her.
Favorite Olympic sport: Softball
Favorite sports moment: Meeting Sis Bates in person. She came to Ohio for a camp that my dad ran, and just getting to listen to her talk about softball and life was unforgettable. She’s not only an amazing player, but she’s also humble and real. That moment gave me even more motivation to chase my dreams.
Favorite snack: Doritos with bean dip
Best thing about softball: The friendships and winning
In 10 years, I hope to be: Working as a teacher
Nominate an Athlete of the Week
Send an email to freelance writer Dave Lamb at d_lamb@msn.com. Please include the athlete’s name, school, sport and a phone number or email address where we can reach that athlete. Please include Athlete of the Week in the subject line.
About the Author