Beautiful Beasts of Sports & Beasts Elite National 18u aligns with Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA).
The Fellowship of Christian Athletes is touching millions of lives…one heart at a time. Since 1954, FCA has been challenging coaches and athletes on the professional, college, high school, junior high and youth levels to use the powerful platform of sport to reach every coach and every athlete with the transforming power of Jesus Christ. FCA focuses on serving local communities around the globe by engaging, equipping and empowering coaches and athletes to unite, inspire and change the world through the gospel.
“We believe in development of the whole person…body, soul, and mind. The alignment with FCA marks a bold commitment to this mission.”
2024 Softball player. Leadership, Hard work, Positive Attitude #00, Catcher, Gulf Coast Bombers
Contact Twitter: @trin_perry00 Tom Perry (Father): perrytho@gmail.com Head Coach: Melissa Hansen Twitter: @gcbHansen
Can you list all awards and honors that you have received academically, as well as playing softball?
Academic Awards: National Junior Honors Society
Softball Awards: 2016 USSSA 12u National Team Selection
Do you have a nickname? What are you knownby your teammates, friends, and your parents?
Yes I do have a nickname, I am known by my friends family as Trin.
Can you list your stats if known:
velocity throwing the ball overhand : 60mph home to 1st speed: 3:59 batting avg: .484 slugging avg: .541 OBP: .556 OPS: 1.096 homeruns: 1 exit speed off tee: 59mph Pop Time: 2.10
How long have you been playing softball? And is softball your first sport or only sport?
Softball was my first sport. I have been playing softball since I was 6 years old.
What position do you play? Why?
I play catcher because you can control the field and you get to be part of every play.
The biggest highlight to date playing softball?
Throwing my first girl out at second.
Tell something about your long-term dreams and goals.
My long term goal is to get a scholarship to play college softball.
What is something about you that others would not know, that you are willing to share?
I had a really bad speech impediment when I was younger and people would make fun of me.
What is a fun fact about you?
I enjoy baking cookies and cakes. I also enjoy trying new recipes.
How important is attending camps to you for the recruiting process?
I think it is important to attend camps to get you on the radar, but not all kids can afford camps.
You are the “hidden gem” that I scour the internet to find, what took you so long to get on Twitter?
I just got on Twitter for softball only because my parents don’t like me to have a lot of social media accounts.
How has being a student-athlete impacted your life?
Being a student athlete has help me learn how to balance life.
What makes you tick? What has shaped your journey in life to now?
Determination has shaped my journey. If we had financial issues I have always made a way to work somehow.
Being a student-athlete is a huge commitment for you. What does it mean to you, to have your family support you?
Family support is so crucial it lets you have someone to lean on when you are stressed.
How important is it to you and your family to be recruited to attend college on a scholarship?
It is important to me to have a chance to compete at the highest level and potential graduate college without debt.
Do you know what degree field you are going to study, and why?
Kinesiology, because I’d like to be a physical therapist or personal trainer.
How important is team chemistry for success, compared to without it?
Team chemistry is so important because you can’t win a game without your team. If you do not have chemistry when you are down no one can pick you up.
What are your thoughts about how important the “dugout” atmosphere (when winning and losing?)
The dugout environment is important when it comes to winning and losing because you have to pump up the energy to win a game.
Part of being a “Beautiful Beast” is the ability to overcome obstacles. (not trying to be too personal) but what obstacles have you faced and had to overcome and how did softball help in that effort?
When I was ten or twelve, I let my dad get in my head and so I set down with my dad and we talked. After that, my mindset in the box has been really good. Having a good mindset in the box is super important to success in the batters’ box and on the field.
What makes you a great teammate?
I think I make a good teammate because I am always cheering people on, keeping people on point, and holding them accountable.
If you are the team captain, what makes you a great one for your team?
Being a team captain is not being the best player on the team. Being the team captain is having the best attitude and holding people accountable.
What is your favorite music?
My favorite genre of music is Rock (especially 80s hairbands), Christian, and musical
Your ideal “walk-up” song?
My two favorite walks up songs are Till the Day I die by TobyMac and Wander by Dion…fun fact The Wonder was my grandfather’s favorite song. I never met him he died before I was born. I really like the beat.
What do you think your best skills are?
I think my best skill are my hands. When I hit I try to keep my hands inside the ball. In the field I kept them soft but firm. Got to stick it catching.
Do you have idols that you look up to? Why?
I really look up to my older sister Ariel she is the nicest and kindest person in the WORLD.
Do you have siblings and what does it mean to have their support?
I have older sibling named Ariel and having her support is beyond important. For example, when I have to pick anything out I have to have my sister’s opinion.
How important is the mental toughness in the game, school, and life?
Mental toughness is so important to have in life. Mental toughness gives you confidence and the ability to be ok if you fail.
Favorite quote?
Hard work WILL pay off .
Softball Quote?
You don’t play for the name on the back of their jersey, you play for the name on the front.
Leadership Quote?
Leadership is the capacity to translate vision into reality.
Family/Life Quote?
“Other things may change us, but we start and end with the family.” –Anthony Brandt.
Bible quote or other that really inspires you?
1 Timothy 4:1212Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity.
What stereotypes bother you?
Girls can’t play sports.
My dad tells me to “relax, be smart but aggressive”.
What motivates you?
Seeing the results in the game motivates me.
What are your thoughts on social media, as there is so much good content but there is also a lot of inappropriate, irrelevant, and drama. How do you strike a balance?
I think there is a lot of inappropriate stuff, but social media lets you express yourself. For example, we are going to use social media for recruiting.
Coaches quotes
“To go where you never been before you have to do what you’ve never done before.”
“Amazing work ethic, great leader! She is a team player and always pushing her team positively! She is continuously improving and putting in the work daily needed to be a top competitor! She is definitely a player to watch in the future!”
“She is very strong in her faith in God which helps her become such a positive role model, as well.”
Melissa Hansen – Head Coach Gulf Coast Bombers
Teammates quotes
“She is always positive and smiling and is one of the hardest working teammates I have ever seen.”
Kadynce Hansen – Teammate Gulf Coast Bombers
“Trinity never stops working- she’s always trying her hardest to improve not only on the field, but during school as well. Trin’s softball IQ is off the charts, and she is a positive leader when we’re on the field. She’s also an amazing teammate and friend. Anytime someone just needs the smallest thing, like just a little positive talk, she’s the one to go to.”
Abby Silman – Teammate Gulf Coast Bombers
Family quotes
Softball: “See it and hit it”; “Relax, be aggressive but smart”; “The results you see are based on the work you put in…that is true in softball and in life”.
Trinity is a smart, kind, passionate, and a little bit of a perfectionist. I love her goofy side. She makes me smile and laugh. I’m proud of how she interacts with friends, family, coaches, teammates, etc. Most importantly she loves God.
Tom – Father
“Trinity is a hard worker she will always give you 100%. It doesn’t matter what she does at school, baking, painting, softball, etc, she will do it to the best of her abilities. God comes first in her life that makes me proud. I love when she smiles and laughs.”
Casey – Mom
“She is the most driven person I know. She does not allow anything to prohibit her from reaching her ambitions. She allows God to be the forefront of her life, which in return brings joy and determination in all aspects of her life.”
Ariel – Sister
The “Mission” and “Why” behind Beautiful Beasts of Softball can be found here:
Lake Mills HS – Class of 2021 – GPA 3.92 – Basketball – Softball – #23 Wisconsin Outlawz – P,SS,3rd,UTL #PlayForLivvy
With the unprecedented shutdown of the country due to COVID-19 how are your thoughts dealing with this? Do you know anyone who has been sickened with it? How are you staying engaged from schoolwork to friends?
When everything started, it was on the day that my basketball team and I went to State. There was an announcement about 20 minutes before we got sent off that said there was not going to be any fans allowed at the game. We were all devastated. It was the first time in school history that the girls basketball team made it to State and we weren’t allowed to have any fans besides our parents. Then all of a sudden everything was getting shut down and we didn’t get to participate in our spring sports. Since the beginning of quarantine, my friends and I still found ways to be connected but from a distance. We went to sunsets together in our own cars and we spent countless hours on facetime so that we could stay close through these times.
I did know a couple people who got tested positive for the virus but they all had mild symptoms and were luckily over it in a few days. My family and I were also in close contact with a couple of the people who tested positive, but my family and I never developed any symptoms.
Can you list all awards and honors that you have received academically, as well as playing softball?
Academic:
2017-2020 High Honor Roll
Academic Letter Award
SLAAC
Softball Awards:
2018 State B Champions
2018 High School Softball MVP
2018 First Team All-Conference
2019 High School Softball MVP
2019 First Team All-Conference
2020 High School Softball Team Captain
Team Captain of Wisconsin Outlawz for the past 5 years
Do you have a nick name? What are you known as by your teammates, friends, and your parents?
Most of my teammates, friends, and family call me T or Tay. Since I was little, people have always called me Tay just to shorten my name. As I got older, my dad started calling me T-Time while playing sports. This eventually led to my dad just calling me T and it just stuck, so most of my teammates started calling me T.
Can you list your stats if known: velocity throwing the ball overhand home to 1st speed, batting avg. slugging avg, homeruns, exit speed off tee, etc., (PITCHERS: pitching velocity, best control pitches) (CATCHERS: Pop-time)
Measurables Overhand Velocity: 63 MPH Home to 1st: 2.90 seconds Home to Home: 11.85 seconds Exit Speed off Tee: 74 MPH
How long have you been playing softball? And is softball your first sport or only sport?
I have been playing softball since 10U. My family and I didn’t know about softball at first, so I played an extra year on the boys baseball team while all of my friends moved to playing softball. I played on the Lake Mills Rec team until I joined the Outlawz in 12U and I have been playing with the Outlawz ever since.
I have also been playing basketball since 4th grade and I have been a varsity starter on the Lake Mills basketball team since Freshman year. I used to go back and forth between basketball and softball and could never decide what sport was my favorite. As I got older, I began to love the game of softball so much more.
If junior or senior: Have you been on any official or unofficial college visits?
I have been on a few unofficial college visits to Northern Illinois University and University of Northern Iowa. I have been on one official visit to Bryant & Stratton College.
If you have committed to a college, can you share with us the process that you followed?
I just recently verbally committed to Bryant and Stratton College. I have known their head coach since I was little. He was able to watch me develop as a player over the years and asked me to come visit the school and meet the other coaches. After the tour I got to sit down with the coaches and talk a little bit about their program. The head coach, Dean Herman, then offered me a partial scholarship to play there. It took me a couple of months to think about it, but I finally decided to commit on August 15th. With Bryant and Stratton College being a Junior College, they will hopefully be able to help me achieve my dream of playing at a Division One or Two College. I absolutely love the coaching staff and I am super excited to be a Bobcat for my first two years of college!
What position do you play? Why?
My primary position is pitcher. I have loved pitching ever since I started. I love being a part of every situation and I love being in tight game situations with all the pressure on me. I do my best when the pressure is on because I have always been a mentally tough pitcher and I don’t let things go to my head. I have always had my own saying before every pitch… “You’re Mine”. This is why I love pitching so much, is because you get to control the game and you get to be the one who takes all the pressure off of your teammates.
My secondary positions are Shortstop and 3rd base. I love playing 3rd because you’re in the “hot box”. You get hard shots at you that make you rely on your instincts and you get to be a part of so many different plays. From bunts to line drives right at you to diving across the foul line to stop the ball from getting to the outfield. I also love playing Shortstop because you get to move around a lot. You get to tag the runner out when your catcher makes an amazing throwdown to second on a steal. You get to dive after balls that are hit in gaps between short and third and ones that get hit right up the middle. All of these reasons are why I do not only love pitching but I also love playing third and short.
If you have ever been injured please answer, if not then skip: Can you tell me about your injuries? Details of what, how, when and your road to recovery?
In basketball I have had sprained ankles and I broke my wrist in 8th grade because I stole the ball from a girl and she chased me down on the breakaway and pushed me while I was going up for a layup. I ended up flying into the bleachers with my hand getting caught underneath the bleachers. I sprained my ankle a couple of times during my Junior year of basketball and one of the times was during the State basketball game. A girl tried to dive for a loose ball and landed on my ankle bending it the wrong way. I had to be helped off the court and taken to the trainers room. I really wanted to help my team and get back on the court so the athletic trainer taped my ankle with a heavy-duty tape and allowed me to go back out and play. It took me a few minutes to trust my ankle but eventually I realized that I could play through the pain because I didn’t want to let my team down. During all of my injuries, I was not able to play in games or practices, but I would go to every game and practice and cheer on my team while continuing to work on my ball handling so that I was ready to go as soon as I was able to participate again.
I have only ever been injured twice in softball. I got hit by a pitch in the elbow and had to get stitches in my right arm. I got hit in the elbow during a high school game Sophomore year. The girl pitching had hit me in the ribs on the first pitch on my first at bat. We ended up batting through the lineup, so I came up to bat again in the first inning. First pitch of my second at bat, the ball was coming at me and since I was hit in the ribs the last time, I must have gone to protect myself from getting hit in the ribs again, and ended up getting hit in the elbow. I had to wear a sling for 2 weeks and still wasn’t able to swing the bat right away after getting out of the sling.
Then this summer, I ended up getting 6 stitches in my forearm. I was playing shortstop and there was a runner at first. Our pitcher struck the batter out and the runner on first tried to steal second. Our catcher made an amazing throw and the girl was out by a mile. I went to put the tag down and the runner slid late into the tag with her cleats sticking up. Her metal cleat sliced my arm and as I held up the ball to show the ump, I saw how much my arm was split open. I rolled the ball to the pitcher’s mound and then one of my teammates helped keep the opening together and walk off the field. Now even though I was out for a few games with both of my injuries, I continued to support my team and I would practice as much as I was allowed to, so that I could come back strong for the next games.
The biggest highlight to date playing softball?
My favorite highlight is the last inning of our championship game at the World Series Warm-Up a few years ago. We were playing Stateline Fury, who we had lost to 8-0 earlier that day. We were down 9-6 in the bottom of the last inning. We started the inning with the top of our line up. There were runners on first and second, with no outs, when I came up to bat. First pitch I hit deep to center for a homerun to tie the game. (The best part about that hit was, one of the moms on our team pulled out her phone right before the pitch and turned to her dad and said, “Watch this. Taylor is going to hit a homerun.” She was able to get that hit on video!) Then, our number four hitter, Savanna Jemilo, came up to bat, so the coach moved all of their infielders back. She was crying so much at this point because she was so happy for me to hit the tying run, that she swung at three pitches in the dirt and was able to make it to first on a drop third strike. The first baseman was playing back and got confused on where the base went, so Savanna was able to beat her to first base. We started putting hits together and Savanna ended up being the winning run! This is a memory that I will never forget because it was the most intense game and celebrating with my team at the end was the best part of it all.
Tell something about your long-term dreams and goals.
One of my main goals, no matter what profession I end up going into, is coming back to coach an Outlawz team. This organization has done so much for me, so I want to come back from college and be able to give the girls I coach the same atmosphere that my coaches provided for me.
How important is attending camps to you for the recruiting process?
I think attending camps is super important! You get to see the different coaching styles and compare their programs to other schools. Attending camps allows you to meet new girls and it allows you to show your talent to the coaches at the school you want to attend.
You are the “hidden gem” that I scour the internet to find, what took you so long to get on Twitter?
I didn’t know much about Twitter and I didn’t realize how great the community is until some of my teammates were talking about it. They would tell me how they would talk to other girls from around the country who play softball and they told me how great of a resource it is for recruiting.
How has being a student-athlete impacted your life?
Being a student-athlete has had a major impact in my life. While academics is more important than athletics, being an athlete is partially why I do so well in school. Being a multi-sport athlete and having games and practices year round for both basketball and softball, I had to learn how to manage my time. With having practices and games all the time, I had to learn how to prioritize and be organized, especially in the winter. When it gets closer to winter, I have high school basketball practices and games Monday through Saturday, softball practices either during the week or on the weekend, and winter tournaments on weekends. With both sports going on at the same time, I have to make myself lists and write down each practice and game times in a planner so that I set aside the time I need to get my school work done, while also making sure that I am still spending time with my family. Without being a student-athlete, I wouldn’t be as organized and I may not have done as well in school.
What makes you tick? What has shaped your journey in life to now?
I was able to meet the most courageous, strong, and inspiring eight year old girl last summer. Her name was Livvy. I met her at a softball tournament in Waukesha where she was watching her brother play baseball. She got bored of watching her brother play and wanted to watch the girls play. She picked my team to watch, not knowing who any of us were. After the game we were able to meet her and had an “interview”. We invited Livvy back to be our honorary captain and sit in the dugout during the game with us. Livvy walked out with us and called the coin toss. She was so excited to be out there with us. During the game she helped our coaches call pitches and even asked our head coach to go on the mound. She then told our head coach “I will be at practice next week to work on my pitching so that Taylor can have a break”.
We later found out that she had a double lung transplant at a very young age. During her eight years, she deeply inspired everyone around her including my teammates and myself. November 23rd was the day we lost the little girl that changed our lives. My coaches, teammates, and the whole Outlawz community was devastated.
This young girl not only completely changed my life, but she changed the lives of everyone she met. Everytime my teammates and I step on the field we play for Livvy. We play for the little girl who changed our lives for the better.
Being a student-athlete is a huge commitment for you. What does it mean to you, to have your family support you?
My family’s support means the world to me! Without their support, I wouldn’t be where I am today. They are constantly supporting me in everything I do and they are always there for me. I don’t think my dad has ever missed one of my games and if my mom isn’t at the field or gym watching me play, she is on her phone watching the Live Stream. They are my biggest supporters and I wouldn’t trade them for the world.
How important is it to you and your family to be recruited to attend college on a scholarship?
It is really important to me to attend college and if I get a scholarship that is just a bonus. I am hoping to get at least some academic scholarships so that I can lessen the cost for me and my family. It would be great to get an athletic scholarship, but that’s not the most important part. As long as I am getting a good education and I get to play at the next level, I will be happy no matter where I am at or how much it costs.
Do you know what degree field you are going to study, and why?
I haven’t fully decided which field I want to study. I am deciding between Accounting and Elementary Education. Ever since I was a little kid, I wanted to be a teacher and then coach for one of the school basketball or softball teams. I love working with little kids and I have been able help coach younger softball and basketball players. I have helped run basketball camps with my high school basketball team, I have helped work with some of the 10U players on our Outlawz team, and I currently give pitching lessons to some of the 10U Lake Mills Rec players. The pitchers that I have been working with have improved so much and I am so proud of them! I love working with these young ladies to help them learn the game I love.
Even though I love working with kids, I am leaning a little more towards Accounting as the field I will go into. I love working with numbers and I have always loved doing math. I took an Accounting class my Junior year and I absolutely loved it. I had so much fun learning how to do the manual accounting and keeping track of the different types of transactions in the books.
How important is team chemistry for success, compared to without it?
Team chemistry is super important to me! I have always been with a close knit team with the Outlawz and my basketball team and we have done so well because we are such a close team. I have heard about teams where there is a lot of drama and the team splits apart when they aren’t playing. Our team is not like that at all! We all play for each other and we always have each other’s backs on and off the field. I believe that a team with a strong team chemistry can beat any team that may have more talent on it. When you have the chemistry, you are a much stronger team because you are playing for each other.
What are your thoughts about how important the “dugout” atmosphere is when winning and losing?
The dugout atmosphere is extremely important! Not only is it key to keep your momentum going while you are winning by staying lound, but it is even more important to stay loud in the dugout when you are down because it shows the other team that you are never going to give up. In the dugout during our Outlawz games, you will not see one girl that is not against the fence cheering on their teammates. No matter what the time, place, or score, we are always cheering for one another.
Part of being a “Beautiful Beast” is the ability to overcome obstacles. (not trying to be too personal) but what obstacles have you faced and had to overcome and how did softball help in that effort?
I guess my biggest obstacle has always been having separated parents. It was harder on me when I was younger because my life was a lot different from all of my friends. I would have to carry clothes back and forth between houses, I lived in two completely different towns, and it was always hard to explain to my friends how I spent half the time with my mom and half with my dad. For a while I lived in Fall River with my dad and in Fort Atkinson with my mom while going to school in Lake Mills, so it was harder for me to spend time with friends. Being a part of sports allowed me to spend more time with my friends and at sporting events, it would be the only time where my parents were actually together. Playing sports also allowed me to have a “second family”. Having this “second family” allowed me to have friends that I knew would always have my back and I could always go to them if I didn’t want to talk to my parents. Now as I got older, I realized how having separated parents isn’t a bad thing at all. I get to spend time with both of my parents but separately, so I am able to have different relationships with both of them. I currently live in Lake Mills with my dad and Fort Atkinson with my mom. I love living in two different cities, because I don’t have to see the same things every day. It might have taken me a little bit to figure it out but, if my parents never separated, I wouldn’t be where I am today and I am so grateful for that.
What makes you a great teammate?
A great teammate is someone who shows up for their team and puts the work in. A great teammate is a person who is encouraging but pushes their teammates to be the best they can be. A great teammate is supportive and gives it their all every practice and game, not just for themselves, but for their team, their coaches, and their parents. A great teammate will be there for you on and off the field. I try to do all of these things and more to be the best teammate I can be.
If you are the team captain, what makes you a great one for your team?
A great captain is someone who is there for their teammates on and off the field. A captain puts in hard work and never takes a rep for granted. A team captain is someone who pushes their teammates to reach their full potential and makes sure that everyone is putting in 110% effort for every rep. These are only some of the qualities that make a great captain and as a captain of the Outlawz, I strive to be the best captain I can be for my teammates.
What is your favorite music?
I mostly listen to Country, 90s, and 2000s Hip Hop. As a kid I grew up listening to country music with my family, but as I got older my parents started playing songs from the 90s and 2000s that they used to listen to all the time. I began to really like that style of music because, in my opinion, it has way better beats and lyrics than most of the songs that are played today. I honestly will listen to any type of music because music is a big part of my life and I have always loved listening to music.
Your ideal “walk-up” song?
“#1” by Nelly
What do you think your best skills are?
I think my best skill is being mentally tough. Ever since I started pitching, I have taught myself to not let things get in my head. I use what some of my coaches call the “3 second rule”. If I make a mistake batting, fielding, or pitching, I get 3 seconds to think about it, then I forget about it and move on to the next play. If I make an error in the field, I think about how I am going to make it up to my teammates while batting. Being mentally tough is so important because if you’re down on yourself, then your teammates are also going to be down. That’s why I make sure that I am always up cheering no matter what happened the play before.
Do you have idols that you look up to? Why?
I have a lot of idols that I look up to in my life but the ones I look up to most are my pitching coach and aunt. My pitching coach, Roanna Brazier, is one of my biggest role models because she is constantly pushing me. She sees the potential in me that I don’t always see. She has always taken the time to help develop me as a pitcher, a player, and she has helped develop me to become the person I am today. She was also able to keep softball a part of her life even after she was done playing by creating her own organization to help teach girls how to play the greatest game out there, and that is something I have always dreamed of doing. She is an amazing coach and I am so lucky that I was able to work with her for the past 5 years.
I also look up to my aunt, Megan, a lot. She has constantly supported me during all of my sports and throughout my life. If she’s not at the gym or field watching me play, she is on her phone or computer at home watching our Facebook Live cheering on my team and I. She is a hard worker, kind-hearted, passionate, and even with starting a family of her own, she is constantly supporting me no matter where I’m at. She has been a role model to me ever since I was little, and she will continue to be one as I get older.
Do you have siblings and what does it mean to have their support?
I have a brother who is 8 and a sister who is 10 and like all siblings, we get on each other’s nerves sometimes, but I still love them so much! With having separated parents, I don’t get to see my siblings all the time and I know it is so hard on them. When I am around, I try to spend as much time with them as possible. I know they look up to me a lot too, so I try to be the best role model I can be for them. I am not around most weekends in the summer because of traveling for tournaments, but I know both of my siblings are supporting me even if they are not at the game. My mom can’t make it to some of my tournaments so she watches them either on Facebook Live or through Game Changer and she always tells me how both of my siblings are sitting next to her cheering like they are at the game.
How important is the mental toughness in the game, school, and life?
Mental toughness is super important not only in the game of softball but in all aspects of life. A player who is mentally tough is able to stay loud cheering for their teammates if they are succeeding or making mistakes. As you make mistakes throughout life and the game you have to have the mental toughness to use that mistake to make the next play.
Favorite quote?
“At times, our own light goes out and is rekindled by a spark from another person. Each of us has cause to think with deep gratitude of those who have lighted the flame within us.” ~Albert Schweitzer
Softball Quote?
“Somewhere behind the athlete you’ve become, and the hours of practice, and the coaches who have pushed you, is a little girl who fell in love with the game and never looked back… play for her.” ~Mia Hamm
Leadership Quote?
“Leadership is not about titles, positions or flowcharts. It is about one life influencing another.” ~ John Maxwell
Family/Life Quote?
“Family, like branches in a tree, we all grow in different directions, yet our roots remain the same.” ~ Unknown
Bible quote or other that really inspires you?
“In the end… we will only regret the chances we didn’t take.” ~ Lewis Carroll
What stereotypes bother you?
All stereotypes bother me. I don’t like it when people judge others for how they dress, what they look like, what their family status is, etc. I believe that everyone should be treated the same. Everyone should be treated with respect and kindness no matter who they are.
What motivates you?
My teammates and coaches all motivate me when it comes to softball. My coaches take out so much time in their days to help my teammates and myself develop as players. They help us become the best players we can possibly be. All the time that my coaches put in for us motivates me to never take a rep off and always give 110% every play. My teammates also motivate me because I never want to let them down. I never take a rep or play off because I know my teammates are counting on me. They push me every practice and have helped develop the player I am today.
What are your thoughts on social media, as there is so much good content but there is also a lot of inappropriate, irrelevant, and drama. How do you strike a balance?
I think social media is a good tool for communication and helping people stay close, especially during times like these, but I try to stay away from the drama situations.
Coaches quotes.
“Taylor is extremely athletic. She will bring versatility to our infield when she is not pitching. As far as a pitcher, she has that workhorse mentality and a confidence on the mound that will be infectious to her teammates.”
Dean Herman – Bryant & Stratton College, Head Softball Coach and Athletic Operations Coordinator.
“I’ve been lucky enough to coach Taylor for the last 6 years. Taylor is a great player and even better teammate. Her poise and command in the pitching circle is exceptional. Nothing bothers her and she is in control on the diamond. Her will and commitment to be the best player she can makes her really stand out. If there something Taylor wants she works her tail off to achieve her goals.
She had a unbelievable season this past summer and shutdown some really good hitting teams. Taylor’s exceptional athleticism also lets her excel playing shortstop and 3rd base while not pitching.
She’s also a great hitter with a great balance of power and contact. Taylor also runs the bases aggressively and smart turning many singles into doubles. Taylor’s biggest asset is her leadership not only on our team but also as a role model to the younger players. She has taken young players in her community under her wings teaching them fundamentals of pitching. As a coach, I couldn’t be more proud of my players giving back to the younger kids. Taylor also excels in the classroom and I have no doubt whatever path she takes in life she will be successful. Its been a pleasure coaching Taylor over the years and even though we only have 1 more summer together I’m super excited to see where the future takes her and be there for support. Taylor is a dream to coach and a person who makes everyone around her better just by the example she sets. Shes a special player and even better person.”
Derek Damon – Director and Head Coach of Wisconsin Outlawz 17u
“I would describe Taylor as a quiet storm. She is not showy or loud but is very much in control. She is very coachable , tough and a work horse. Taylor is capable of being coached by many different styles of coaches. She doesn’t take things personally and does well at taking criticism. She absorbs information well, stores it and uses it because she cares and works hard to be a better player and teammate.”
Roanna Brazier – On The Rise Fastpitch
Parents quotes.
Taylor is a truly genuine person who treats everyone with kindness and respect. This is demonstrated not only on the field as a player and teammate, but also throughout her everyday life. She is completely humble in her accomplishments and is always positive in cheering for her teammates. Any coach that has had the pleasure to coach her commends her ability to give it her all. She doesn’t get flustered when put in a tough situation. In fact she flourishes. She continuously challenges herself to get better and doesn’t complain when faced with challenges or corrective criticism. Taylor is respected by coaches, teammates, parents and friends because of how she treats people and how hard she works. She is very disciplined and makes good choices on and off the field. Even with a vigorous sports schedule she maintains excellent grades in school. I could not be more proud of the woman she has become and know she will do great things no matter what she chooses to do in life.
Mom (Lisa Trebatoski)
One thing I can say about Taylor is that she is dedicated. She played travel basketball up until High School and started Varsity as a freshman. With all the time that Basketball took up and travel softball she always put in extra work for both sports. A day I will never forget was back in 12u softball we were playing a tournament in Middleton and she was struggling at the plate. We had a few hours between games and the team went to have dinner. Instead of going to dinner Taylor wanted to go to the batting cage to work on her swing. So we went to the batting cage and took about 100 swings. At the game that night she hit her first homerun.
Dad (Brad Roughen)
The “Mission” and “Why” behind Beautiful Beasts of Softball can be found here:
With the unprecedented shutdown of the country, limited reopening due to COVID-19 what are your thoughts dealing with this? Do you know anyone who has been sickened with it? How are you staying engaged with friends?
It has been frustrating because we all want to get back to normal, but of course I don’t want anyone to get sick. I am glad we were able to play this summer. One of my teammate’s parents were sick and my coach’s wife had it, but luckily everyone has recovered. I have been FaceTiming my friends a lot and staying in touch.
Can you list all awards and honors that you have received academically, as well as playing softball?
Academic Awards:
A/B Honor Roll Science Award of Excellence & Coach’s Award of Excellence
Softball Awards:
UIL Texas State 6A All Tournament Team 3rd Base Texas 15-6A 2nd Team All District Texas 15-6A Academic All District Texas 6A – State Runner Up VYPE Houston Softball Team of the Year 2019 Extra Innings Softball Position Rankings Class of 2022 – Ranked #83 for Catchers (2019) Extra Innings Elite 300 of 2022 – Ranked #274 (2019) Extra Innings Elite 300 of 2022 – Ranked #147 (2018) 2017 USA Softball All-American
Do you have a nick name? What are you known as by your teammates, friends, and your parents?
So some people have had trouble pronouncing my first name (sounds just like it is spelled) so I have been called A-Word, and AR-IN (RN). Coach Prinzo nicknamed me Captain Marvel, but most people just call me Arwin.
Can you list your stats if known: velocity throwing the ball overhand home to 1st speed, batting avg. slugging avg, homeruns, exit speed off tee, etc., (PITCHERS: pitching velocity, best control pitches) (CATCHERS: Pop-time)
Overhand Throwing Speed = 66 mph (ODM) Agility Shuttle = 4.853 (ODM) Exit Velocity off Tee = 69 mph (ODM) 20 yard time = 2.98 (ODM) 40 yard time = 5.57 (ODM) My fastest recorded pop time was 1.71 but my average hangs out around 1.78 Batting average usually between .300 and .350
How long have you been playing softball? And is softball your first sport or only sport?
I started playing softball when I was 9, so I am starting my 7th year. I played soccer, did gymnastics and dance first but found I enjoyed softball more. I played volleyball, basketball, tennis and ran cross country and track in middle school.
If junior or senior: Have you been on any official or unofficial college visits?
I have not been on any visits yet.
What position do you play? Why?
I am a catcher and I also play 3rd base and middle infield. I started catching in 10u and just loved the excitement of being behind the plate. I started playing 2nd base as a secondary position and I started playing 3rd base because it was what my high school coach needed me to play. I love playing other positions as well as catching.
The biggest highlight to date playing softball?
My entire freshman season at Klein Collins High School was a highlight. I was the only freshman, I was starting 3rd baseman and we went to the 6A State Championship finishing 2nd in the state in the biggest conference. It was AMAZING! But if I had to pick a single moment, it was during the Region Championship against Wylie High School. We had won the first game of the series pretty easily but they came to play the next day! We were tied at 1-1 for a while and then I hit one to the gap in right field and scored 2 runs in the 4th inning. Those were the last two runs scored that game – I had never seen my high school coach so excited! After we won, we all were jumping together and crying because we knew we were going to the state championship!
Tell something about your long-term dreams and goals.
The long term dream has always been to play softball in college. I would love to coach in the future as well. I work for Softball Academy at the Farm League softball now and love working with young softball girls.
What is something about you that others would not know, that you are willing to share?
I enjoy painting in my downtime. It is very relaxing to me and helps me clear my head.
What is a fun fact about you?
I am in FFA and I raise animals. I have raised two goats and this year I participated in the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo Calf Scramble. I won a certificate and I am raising a steer named Dudley for the show next spring.
How important is attending camps to you for the recruiting process?
Attending camps is pretty crucial because it is where coaches get to know prospects and that relationship starts to build. Plus you can get to see how they interact with their current players and the culture of the team.
You are the “hidden gem” that I scour the internet to find, what took you so long to get on Twitter?
I have been on for a while but I am not a big sharer on social media and I am not the best about talking about myself, but I know Twitter can really help get exposure so I have been trying to post more.
How has being a student-athlete impacted your life?
Being a student athlete has taught me self-discipline. You have to manage your time, get your school work done and balance friends and practice as well. I think it has prepared me for the future.
What makes you tick? What has shaped your journey in life to now?
I guess I would say I am a determined and focused person. I have had my struggles with life and softball. I feel like I have to work really hard for all the success I have had, it doesn’t all come easy to me so it has made me fight harder for it.
Being a student-athlete is a huge commitment for you. What does it mean to you, to have your family support you?
It means everything. Without their support, I would not be able to do this at all. They help me follow my dream and that means everything to me.
How important is it to you and your family to be recruited to attend college on a scholarship?
It is the dream we all have and that we have been working towards for the last few years. My parents have 4 kids so I want to get a scholarship to help them pay for my college and to show them all their sacrifices were worth it.
Do you know what degree field you are going to study, and why?
I want to study a field in agriculture. Maybe Ag Business. I started taking agriculture classes and raising animals in FFA my freshman year and I have discovered a passion for it.
How important is team chemistry for success, compared to without it?
I have been on teams with it and without it and having it can make a big difference. If you trust each other, you play better. If you play FOR each other, you play even better.
What are your thoughts about how important the “dugout” atmosphere is, when winning and losing?
It should be the same energy, winning or losing. Its hard when we are losing to stay cheering, but we have had big come backs because the dugout stayed loud even when we were down.
Part of being a “Beautiful Beast” is the ability to overcome obstacles. (not trying to be too personal) but what obstacles have you faced and had to overcome and how did softball help in that effort?
I had a learning disability when I was young and struggled in school, even just to learn to read. I was scared of falling behind so I worked really hard and learned special strategies to keep up. Now I just finished my sophomore year with straight A’s and I am taking on a Pre-AP class this year. I still have to work hard for my grades, but the results of working hard are worth it. Softball is my way of burning off my aggression and frustration.
What makes you a great teammate?
I really try to keep my teammates heads up and to cheer them on no matter what. I try to do my part the best I can to pick them up and I try to support them all. As a catcher, I try to keep my pitchers smiling and calm.
What is your favorite music?
Literally EVERY music is my favorite. I listen to everything from old country, old rock, old rap to the new stuff. My family loves music so we listen to all kinds all the time.
Your ideal “walk-up” song?
“Long Cool Woman (In a Black Dress)” by the Hollies
What do you think your best skills are?
I am a good blocker behind the plate, I love throwing to get a pick off. I feel like I am good at always looking to get the next out during a play and I have gotten a few double plays that way. And I am a good base runner.
Do you have idols that you look up to? Why?
I love Muhammad Ali because he came from nothing and became successful.
Do you have siblings and what does it mean to have their support?
I do have siblings – an older sister, an older brother and a younger brother. They have sacrificed a lot for me to play this sport – they are probably tired of us only taking our family vacations where we are playing softball that summer but they are proud of me.
How important is the mental toughness in the game, school, and life?
It is very important. This game is very mental which can affect you. School and life – it gets tough. We deal with a lot more than people may realize and it would be hard to manage if you don’t have the right mind set.
Favorite quote?
“A diamond is chunk of coal that did well under pressure” – unknown
Blaze United 16U play best 2 of 3 vs Texas Glory 16U tomorrow at 10am and 2pm on Field 1 at High Point. The girls are going to leave it ALL on the field here at TFL as shown by Arwin Callaway with this sick catch! #BUnited#TFLpic.twitter.com/KIn2eGktB6
“The dream is free. Hustle sold separately.” -unknown
Leadership Quote?
“The essence of great leadership is INFLUENCE, not authority” – unknown
Family/Life Quote?
We have a family motto – “When in doubt, twerk it out!” My parents came up with this to make us laugh when we are taking life a little too seriously and its just something we say and then all dance silly together.
Bible quote or other that really inspires you?
2 Timothy 1:7
For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.
What stereotypes bother you?
That catchers are clunky and can’t run.
What motivates you?
I enjoy competition and I enjoy the grind. I love workouts, drills and conditioning and then seeing the results from my hard work on the field is inspiring.
What are your thoughts on social media, as there is so much good content but there is also a lot of inappropriate, irrelevant content, and drama. How do you strike a balance?
I try to just use it for positivity. I like the funny stuff and the happy stuff. I don’t pay attention to the negative or drama.
Coaches quotes.
“Arwin is an awesome kid with great work ethics! Always gives 110% on the field no matter if she’s catching, playing 3b,2b, kid will run through fences to make plays! Bc of her hard work, she has made big improvements in her game in the last few yrs! Excited to see her continue to grow!”
Cory Robertson, Blaze United coach
Parents quotes.
“Arwin is the type of kid that was told by her travel ball coach at the end of the fall that if she didn’t put in some serious work before summer, she may not have a starting position. Her coach told us this in case we wanted to make a team change. We told her we would think about it and let her know. Before we even got out of the car, Arwin had already texted her coach that she was staying with her and that she would work so hard to make her proud. Arwin told her coach that she would be the story used in the future to show how hard work pays off. I am happy to say she did just that and hardly left the field or lineup that following summer.”
Kristie Daniels, mom
“Arwin is a deep kid, even though she may not always appear that way. She cares about her family and traditions are important to her. She doesn’t trust easily but once she does, she’ll do anything for you. She is sometimes shy to take the first step but that doesn’t ever stop her from doing it.”
John Daniels, dad
The “Mission” and “Why” behind Beautiful Beasts of Softball can be found here:
So Cal Athletics Marinakis/Jaquish 04 National, Westlake Varsity Softball, Second Base, Third Base, Utility, Left handed batter, right handed thrower, GPA: 3.4
With the unprecedented shutdown of the country, limited reopening due to COVID-19 what are your thoughts dealing with this? Do you know anyone who has been sicken with it? How are you staying engaged with friends?
With the shutdown of our country it’s been really hard. My grandfather died in April from COVID-19 which has been difficult to believe. He lived in Michigan, so we were not able to go there but he had come to many of my games when I was younger, and it meant a lot to me. I have many wonderful memories of him which I will treasure forever. But during this time, I have tried to look at the positive in my life. For one I get to spend a lot of time with my family. We all learned how to cook family dinners and we also spent a lot of time at the pool with the dogs. We talked about how lucky we are to have each other and one day this will pass and have the memories of family time together.
Can you list all awards and honors that you have received academically, as well as playing softball.
Academic Awards:
Good student in the classroom getting A’s and B’s
In middle school I was represented to be a part of student council and was a senator
In leadership program
Honor Roll sophomore year
Softball Awards:
2-year varsity lettermen since freshmen year
Member Israeli national team
Chaminade High School, Maramonte league champs undefeated 2019
Varsity team as a freshman and was named the 15th best player in the -Mission league in 2019 and fifth highest batting average on the team.
Do you have a nick name? What are you known as by your teammates, friends, and your parents?
I don’t really have a specific name, but most of my friends call me Hail’s or just Hailey
Can you list your stats if known: velocity throwing the ball overhand home to 1st speed, batting avg. slugging avg, homeruns, exit speed off tee, etc., (PITCHERS: pitching velocity, best control pitches) (CATCHERS: Pop-time)
Batting Average 333 currently
Freshman year batting average: .429%
Frehsman year on base percentage: .475%
How long have you been playing softball? And is softball your first sport or only sport?
I have been playing softball since I was 6. I used to play soccer also but once I moved to travel ball in 10u I had to pick one or the other and softball has always been my passion and my first choice.
What position do you play? Why?
I play second, third, and utility. When I first started playing softball I was a catcher. I thought if I caught I would always be touching the ball. Getting older I knew that catching wasn’t going to be long term. Even though I was fast and had a strong arm behind the plate I was not as big as most coaches were looking for to fill that position, so I started playing the infield and my coaches thought 2nd base was the perfect position for me. After some adjustment I realized I can adapt to things really easily and made myself a new home on the infield quickly. I utilized my ability to adjust to help me and with my catcher’s arm was also able to be a utility player as well for any coach on any team.
If you have ever been injured please answer, if not then skip: Can you tell me about your injuries? Details of what, how, when and your road to recovery?
Never fortunately been injured.
The biggest highlight to date playing softball?
One of the greatest experiences I had was being invited to compete in the USSSA Elite tournament in Kansas City. I not only got to see Kansas, but I got to play against some of the best teams in the country. I felt honored to be on the field with many of the girls and hoped they felt the same about me.
Tell something about your long-term dreams and goal.
My long-term dream is to play softball in college. But more importantly is my education. I have always had a goal of majoring in psychology to become a therapist for special needs children.
— Hailey Lindman So Cal Athletics Marinakis 16u 04 (@hailey_lindman) August 25, 2020
What is something about you that others would not know, that you are willing to share?
A lot of people don’t know about me that I have always cared about helping others in need. I have always grown up around kids with special need since my brother and sister have some problems. I feel like everybody deserves to be happy and I always make my brother and sister feel like they are just like everybody else. When I was in middle school I was the leader of the special needs program and I would go there every day to organize special activity’s and make them feel like they are involved in the school.
How important is attending camps to you for the recruiting process?
I feel like attending recruiting camps is really important for being on a college radar. What I have learned throughout the years is that you never know who is watching you. I feel like special things happen at special times so if you work hard and go to camps you never know who would be interested in you and when you are not at camps always play your best for you never know when or where someone is still watching you.
You are the “hidden gem” that I scour the internet to find, what took you so long to get on Twitter?
Being in quarantine I knew I needed to start being a part of social media to get my skills seen on the internet. Being on twitter you can post all of your skills and let all the people see your talent. Before COVID-19 I got to play games, every single weekend and college coaches used to come out and see our skills. Now I have pushed myself to a new platform to get out and practice so college coaches and other people can see my ability to play the game on and off the field. I wished I would have known how it would have benefited me sooner but glad I have the social media platforms now.
How has being a student-athlete impacted your life?
Being a student-athlete has been a huge impact in many ways. This has taught me that I have to have to budget my time and prioritize what is most important to me. It also has taught me that I have to be a really good student, so I can get into a really good college, play at a high level and then take those skill to further my career and life.
What makes you tick? What has shaped your journey in life to now?
I have always had to work harder than some of my teammates to earn a spot. This isn’t just softball it’s in the classroom or in general life. My morals carry me to be the best person I can be, and I always practice that every day to make myself the best player I can ever be and the best person I can be.A coach once told me hard work pays off and I know it will pay of in the future!
Being a student-athlete is a huge commitment for you. What does it mean to you, to have your family support you?
Being a student-athlete mean the world to me. It means everything that I have the support from my family, friends, coaches, and teammates. My family helps me every day to make me the best player I can be. They have spent the time to find me the best equiptment, coaches, and teams always. I can’t say it’s always been easy but my Mom always said keep your eye on the donut not the hole and stop sweating the little stuff just do your best. I always remember that on an off the field. I am very blessed to have them in my life.
How important is it to you and your family to be recruited to attend college on a scholarship?
Being recruited means the world to me and my family. I think if one day I get a scholarship to my dream college I will feel like all of my hard work had been worth it. My parents will be so happy for me and will feel all the past years of hard work paid off. A scholarship is very important for there are three of us and living in California has been hard. My Mom and Dad are all the family I have ever had close by so it’s a lot for them. They want me to have the best education possible but have already said out of state may be difficult without assistance but would hope a scholarship would open up other possibilities I would not be able to consider without it.
Do you know what degree field you are going to study, and why?
I have always known since I was little what I wanted to study when I got older. My sister and brother both were born with developmental delays which were challenging. I was the youngest but did not have the struggles they experienced and always wanted to do what I could to help them and my parents. Given my direct experiences I realized what a difference I could make and studying Psychology to be a therapist for special needs children was my calling. I feel like I can make a huge impact not just from my studies but my personal experience that would benefit children to be and feel the best there very best and to also know how special they are and feel better about themselves.
How important is team chemistry for success, compared to without it?
Team chemistry is everything to a team. There is no I in team, so the team is never about one single person and it is about everybody. Some of the greatest teams have girls that will always have each other’s back and make you the best player they could ever be. If you win you celebrate together and if you lose you continue to support each other and improve.
What are your thoughts about how important the “dugout” atmosphere (when winning and losing?)
Dugout atmosphere is key in softball. A team with great atmosphere in the dugout will always make a difference on the field. I always try to keep the dugout upbeat and make sure that everybody is engaged in the game and cheering their teammates on. If people are not engaged or we are losing I try to turn the dugout into a positive place for the team by being the cheerleader even if I am not playing and be supportive of my teammates. Others usually join in to make the dugout a positive place for the team.
Part of being a “Beautiful Beast” is the ability to overcome obstacles. (not trying to be too personal) but what obstacles have you faced and had to overcome and how did softball help in that effort?
I have been to overcome many obstacles. I have always been mocked about my height to play the game, but I have never let it stop me. As the years went on I grew and grew and now I am almost 5’4. I will always believe in myself, be a supportive of my teammates and play big so I can continue playing the game I love.
What makes you a great teammate?
What makes me a great teammate is my confidence and my way of spreading positivity throughout the dugout and field. I am always smiling and making sure that I stay true to myself. I also go out every single game playing 100% and trying to make myself the best player I can ever be. I am usually the first there and the last to leave and every opportunity I get to play or help out on a team you can bet I will be there excited for the game to start.
If you are the team captain, what makes you a great one for your team?
I have never been a team captain, but I have always stepped up to be a leader. All the girls appreciate me stepping in because I am a supportive teammate and I will always make sure each one of the girls are getting the job done.
What is your favorite music?
My favorite music is pop and rap music.
Your ideal “walk-up” song?
My walk-up song is Imma Be by Black Eye Peas
What do you think your best skills are?
I feel like my best skills are being a supportive teammate and being a hard worker on and off the field. I take what I learn on the field to help me off the field and in other areas of my life. I feel so much of what I have learned from softball are life skill not just softball skills and will help me fulfill my dreams, good times and bad and continue to guide me into the future.
Do you have idols that you look up to? Why?
My biggest idol that I look up to is my mom. My mom has always been there in support for me. Even though sometimes she doesn’t know what’s happening she will always be at my games to support me and make sure I can do the best I can. She has been there since day 1 when I started playing softball and I know she will be there till the very end of my journey. She is my biggest fan and my best friend and always will be.
Do you have siblings and what does it mean to have their support?
Yes, I have 2 older siblings named Ashley and Jordan. Ashley and I started playing softball together and even though she doesn’t play anymore we play catch once in a while and it’s a bond we have shared together and will always remember. Jordan did not play but he kept stats and always came to be supportive. He was named assistant coach once and the team gave him a jersey, so he was not left out.
How important is the mental toughness in the game, school, and life?
The mental toughness in the game is very important because if you are not doing well in a game and you are just getting down about yourself you do not have the mental toughness to do well. Mental toughness also has a lot to do with attitude and appearance on and off the field. You have to have the mental toughness to study more for tests and quizzes and also push yourself to do one more push-up or sit-up to make yourself stronger. You need to have the mental toughness to get through what hard till it gets easier.
Favorite quote?
“The most beautiful thing you can wear is confidence.” – Blake Lively
Softball Quote?
A Champion is not defined by their wins but by how they can recover when they fail. – Serina Williams
Leadership Quote?
You have to believe in yourself when no one else does. The only bar you can’t reach is the one you don’t try to. – Serina Williams
Family/Life Quote?
See life half full if you always look at the negative it’s hard to go forward.
Bible quote or other that really inspires you?
Laugh and the world laughs with you cry and you cry alone.
See the glass half full not half empty.
Keep your eye on the donut not the hole
What stereotypes bother you?
Some stereotypes that bother me when people look at my height and assume I don’t have the power to hit a ball till I do. When teammates think they are better than everybody else. We are all on a team for a reason, so we should be helping each other to get stronger and not someone just focus on their self. That’s why it’s a team sport.
What motivates you?
When people don’t think I am good enough to do something it pushes me to work harder and have the motivation to do better.
What are your thoughts on social media, as there is so much good content but there is also a lot of inappropriate, irrelevance, and drama. How do you strike a balance?
I feel like social media can be used in a good way to help or better you or a bad way but it’s just about how you choose to use it. I try not to be involved in the drama and stay focused on my goals and what is going to help me achieve my dreams.
Coaches quotes.
She possess great lateral mobility and very soft hands. She is a leader on the field and communicates very well with her Teammates. She is a great teammate and is supportive of all the kids on the team. She has great range with the drop step and can get deep on the tweener she works tirelessly and loves the game. She plays Outfield as well as 2B and get great read on the ball. She has a great personality and wants to succeed in life. She is very serious about her education and is a great student. She put the ball in play always and is a great 2 hitter. She protects runners and moves runners. She is a great bunter and can lay down a ball for a base hit. She is always working to improve her game. Her Mom and Dad support her dream of playing softball at the next level. They are great parents and very positive influences in her life. In closing this young lady plays big on both sides of the fence Athletic and Academic. Great Kid and a wonderful family. Thank You
Coach Kostas SCA Marinakis:
Hi, my name is John Wilson and I am the coach of the So Cal Athletics travel softball team. Hailey played for me during the summer in 2018 and did a great job. She is a very good player but what I like most about her is her attitude and the effort that she gives. She gives a 100% effort in everything she does and excels.
Coach John Wilson
Teammates quotes.
I have known Hailey for about 5 years now and gotten to know her as both a player and a friend and it has been an honor and a pleasure! She is one of the most hardworking, persistent, and compassionate people I have ever met! She brings so much to our team with her leadership, her love for the game, and skills both mentally and physically. Every time she is up to bat, I blink, and she is already down the line. She always picks me up after I make an error and hypes me up before going out to catch or bat. Not only is she a great teammate, but an amazing friend. I will always enjoy our endless laughs while swimming or having a nice BBQ. Anyone would be lucky to call Hailey their friend and teammate. I know I am!
Isabella Manory
Hailey is such a fun teammate and friend to be around. She is always hardworking and is looking for ways to make her and her teammates better athletes. She’s such a great athlete who is always looking to do her best and constantly giving it her all. I can always count on her to pick me up in a game or at practice. She is always everyone’s biggest cheerleader and always has the best attitude on and off the field. I’m so lucky to have the chance to be on a team with such an amazing teammate and friend.
Adriana Manory
Hailey brings life and joy whenever she plays the game of softball. She has shown me what an amazing teammate should be by being there for everyone no matter what. Her love for the game is undeniable and overall, she has grown so much over the years I have known her. She is strong, caring, loving, and so much more and I can’t thank her enough for just always being herself and being an amazing friend. I will forever cherish every moment we have together on and off the field. All the love that you bring to the game of softball will never be unnoticed. Thank you for always being there for me and showing me what a real friend and teammate should be. Your love for friends, family, and softball is unconditional. Always remain who you are an no one can take that away from you.
Gaby Ramirez
Parents quotes.
Hailey is a person with incredible integrity and heart on and off the field. She is a role model for anyone that meets her. She has always handled herself with pose and elegance way beyond her years and would be an asset to any team. As my daughter she is a light that never burns out and I could not be prouder to be her Mom.
Mom
The “Mission” and “Why” behind Beautiful Beasts of Softball can be found here:
I asked Ansley several questions for her interview,
Let’s get to know her!
With the unprecedented shutdown of the country, limited reopening due to COVID-19 what are your thoughts dealing with this? Do you know anyone who has been sickened by it? How are you staying engaged with friends?
When dealing with this, I make sure to wear a mask. Its not a hard thing to do in my opinion. And if it means that I keep my grandparents and others around me safe, then I will sacrifice my comfortability. I stay engaged with friends in school and in volleyball. Some of my best friends are on the team, and getting to see them every day for practice helps me blow off steam from the stressful school day.
Can you list all awards and honors that you have received academically, as well as playing softball?
Academic Awards: Sophomore Class Student Council Representative, Mary Alice Hood Chambers Award
Softball Awards: Softball Extra Innings Top 100 Catcher #59 Softball Extra Innings #150 Overall Softball Extra Innings Runner-Up/National Player of the Week (batted .625, 1 homerun, 3 walks, 6 RBIs, 3 stolen bases) Softball All Region Freshman Year, Starter on TSSAA state runner up Softball-Starter as an 8th grader and was TSSAA state runner-up
Do you have a nick name? What are you known as by your teammates, friends, and your parents?
My parents have always called me AGB and a lot of my friends call me that as well. My teammates always joke around and call me Giraffe because I’m so much taller than all of them. But my best friends call me AG Blevs and Ans.
Can you list your stats if known: velocity throwing the ball overhand home to 1st speed, batting avg. slugging avg, homeruns, exit speed off tee, etc., (PITCHERS: pitching velocity, best control pitches) (CATCHERS: Pop-time)
Pop time :1.8 Homeruns: 24 Batting average: for this past travel ball season: .365
How long have you been playing softball? And is softball your first sport or only sport?
I have been playing softball since I was 7. Softball is my first sport followed closely by volleyball.
If junior or senior: Have you been on any official or unofficial college visits?
None yet, Covid has really slowed down the process, but I’m hoping to change that soon.
What position do you play? Why?
My primary position is catching. I started catching in 12u because at the time, no one on my team wanted to, so I volunteered. I have stuck with it ever since. Catching is something that I LOVE. My personality and catching go really well together, so the communicative part of it comes very natural to me.
The biggest highlight to date playing softball?
My biggest highlight to date happened on April 11, 2019. My school ball team, GPS, was playing out rival team Baylor. Bases loaded 0-0 ballgame, count 2-2, and I hit a grandslam. Best Feeling Ever. We ended up winning the game 5-0.
Tell something about your long-term dreams and goals.
My long-term dream or goal is to help people. Growing up I’ve always had the support I needed from teachers, parents, coaches, community, etc., and I want to give back to my awesome community and the people that have helped me along the way.
What is a fun fact about you?
To get my first ever out in softball, I was at first base and I squatted down and closed my eyes and when I opened them back up I had caught the pop up that had come right to me.
How important is attending camps to you for the recruiting process?
Attending camps has been super helpful in being able to get to know coaches and their way of coaching; it also helps when trying to make connections in the softball community.
You are the “hidden gem” that I scour the internet to find, what took you so long to get on Twitter?
I’ve been asked this question a lot. At first, I didn’t know the impact Twitter had in the softball world. And secondly, I’ve never really felt as if I should post all of my successes. I didn’t want people to think that I was full of myself or bragging in anyway. I’ve always been really humble when it comes to my success. But I’ve realized that people don’t take my video of me throwing three people out or my homerun as me bragging, only as me trying to make myself known and putting myself out there. I’m still trying to get used to posting on social media and to continue to do that.
Staff Photo by Robin Rudd/GPS catcher Ansley Blevins (24) leaps as she celebrates teammate Brynley Oliver score. Also celebrating are Elizabeth Warwick 14) and the rest of the Bruiser bench. Blevins hit a grand slam home run earlier in the game. The Baylor Lady Raiders visited the Girls Preparatory School Bruisers in TSSAA softball action. The Bruisers won 5 to 0.
How has being a student-athlete impacted your life?
Being a student athlete, especially at a primarily academic school, has taught me how to be disciplined when getting work done on and off the field. It’s always helped me make so many connections and friends outside of school.
What makes you tick? What has shaped your journey in life to now?
Thank the Lord my family hasn’t had any major struggles. My tick is that I have a desire to compete and be my best. I want to do everything I can to see my teammates and myself be successful.
Being a student-athlete is a huge commitment for you. What does it mean to you, to have your family support you?
My family’s support means everything to me. Without them I wouldn’t be where I am today and I’m so grateful for the time, money, and effort they have put into my success on the field and court.
How important is it to you and your family to be recruited to attend college on a scholarship?
My parents have been paying for travel ball, softball and volleyball, and my schooling since the 6th grade. I really want to return the favor by not wanting them to worry for my college. I’ve worked so hard to become the player that I am in hopes that I won’t have to worry about college debt and that I can have a great experience at whatever school I choose.
Do you know what degree field you are going to study, and why?
Either Speech Pathology and Otology or Dermatology. I really want to help people and give back to others, and being able to make children and adults confident in their body would be a great way of achieving that goal.
How important is team chemistry for success, compared to without it?
I am very big on team chemistry. From my experience, teams that don’t have it, tend to fail when they shouldn’t. I have played multiples teams that should have beaten us easily, but my team works so well together that we find a way to pull out a win.
What are your thoughts about how important the “dugout” atmosphere is when winning and losing?
ALWAYS BE LOUD!!! No matter if you are down by one or fifteen, there is a chance to come back, but if you are quiet and don’t bring any energy, there is no way you can make a comeback. I think being quiet and down on yourself projects to other teams, coaches and parents that you have no confidence in yourself or teammates.
Part of being a “Beautiful Beast” is the ability to overcome obstacles. (Not trying to be too personal) but what obstacles have you faced and had to overcome and how did softball help in that effort?
Softball just helps relieve me from my stress from off the field. It’s my outlet when I’m having a bad day.
What makes you a great teammate?
I am just as happy for their success as if it were mine.
If you are the team captain, what makes you a great one for your team?
I am very communicative and loud and very uplifting and encouraging, I love to have fun with my teammates but also know when it’s time to be serious.
What is your favorite music?
Anything that has a good beat; pretty much anything I can get hyped to.
Your ideal “walk-up” song?
Walk It Talk It by MIGOS. It’s been my walk-up song for the past three years, and it’s not going to change.
What do you think your best skills are?
I’m very loud and energetic and communicative.
Do you have idols that you look up to? Why?
My grandfather. He played in the majors and coached baseball for forever. He’s almost in his 80s, yet he still plays slow pitch softball. His love for the game is something that I strive to hold onto for the rest of my life.
Do you have siblings and what does it mean to have their support?
I have an older brother Braden; he has always been very supportive of me and always jokes that I’m the athlete of the family. I’ve always looked up to him.
Favorite quote?
“Anything’s possible, you gotta dream like you’ve never seen obstacles.” -J Cole
Leadership Quote?
“A life is not important except in the impact it has on other lives.” -Jackie Robinson
Bible quote or other that really inspires you?
“For with God nothing shall be impossible.” -Luke 1:37
Staff Photo by Robin Rudd/GPS catcher Ansley Blevins (24) leaps as she celebrates teammate Brynley Oliver score. Also celebrating are Elizabeth Warwick 14) and the rest of the Bruiser bench. Blevins hit a grand slam home run earlier in the game. The Baylor Lady Raiders visited the Girls Preparatory School Bruisers in TSSAA softball action. The Bruisers won 5 to 0.
What stereotypes bother you?
That catchers are short and small, as I am neither of those!
What motivates you?
My desire to be the best I can be.
What are your thoughts on social media, as there is so much good content but there is also a lot of inappropriate, irrelevant content, and drama. How do you strike a balance?
I try to be the most genuine person I can be on social media. It’s harder for kids now to be fully conscious about what they are putting online because “everyone else is doing it.” But nowadays, nothing is private. I don’t put anything on social media that I wouldn’t want the coach of my future school, or my grandparents to see.
Coaches quotes.
“6’0 C/1B born leader. Honestly, she’s every coach’s dream. I’m not sure I’ve ever seen a more vocal leader in my life which is sometimes rare at this age. AGB can hit a ton at the plate: 5 total K’s all summer. She’s definitely a tough out. She has a very good pop time coming in around 1.82-1.85 and can lead the defense as good or better than most coaches. Very low maintenance off the field and very good academically with a spectacular support system! I would most definitely recommend this young lady, and I can say with no hesitation at all, she will immediately make your team and your university better.”
-Josh Henson, Hotshots
“Ansley is a natural leader on and off the field. She knows and understands that work ethic in the classroom and on the field have to be the same if she wants to achieve her goals. She has worked like crazy in the weight room and is seeing the benefits in her power numbers at the plate as well as her defensive game.”
-Susan Crownover, GPS
Parents quotes.
“Ansley has always been a bottle of energy with an outgoing and loving personality who strives to be the bigger person in compromised situations and will be the first to speak up on behalf of someone in need. Through her close relationship with her grandparents and family, she respects her elders and is consistently encouraged to be a fearless leader and competitor in everything she wants to achieve, and it shows. Her accomplishments over the years have been great, but I am most proud of the character, integrity and determination that this kid brings into our lives each day.”
Mom & Dad
The “Mission” and “Why” behind Beautiful Beasts of Softball can be found here:
I asked Ansley several questions for her interview,
Let’s get to know her!
With the unprecedented shutdown of the country, limited reopening due to COVID-19 what are your thoughts dealing with this? Do you know anyone who has been sicken with it? How are you staying engaged with friends?
When dealing with this, I make sure to wear a mask. Its not a hard thing to do in my opinion, and if it means the I keep my grandparents and others around me safe, then I will sacrifice my comfortability. I stay engaged with friends in school, and in volleyball. Some of my best friends are on the team and getting to see them every day for practice helps me blow off steam form the stressful school day.
Can you list all awards and honors that you have received academically, as well as playing softball?
Academic Awards: Sophomore Class Student Council Representative, Mary Alice Hood Chambers Award
Softball Awards: Softball Extra Innings Top 100 Catcher #59 Softball Extra Innings #150 Overall Softball Extra Innings Runner-Up/National Player of the Week (batted .625, 1 homerun, 3 walks, 6 RBIs, 3 stolen bases) Softball All Region Freshman Year, Starter on TSSAA state runner up Softball-Starter as an 8th grader and was TSSAA state runner-up
Do you have a nick name? What are you known as by your teammates, friends, and your parents?
My parents have always called me AGB and a lot of my friends call me that as well. My teammates always joke around and call me Giraffe because I’m so much taller than all of them. But my best friends call me AG Blevs and Ans.
Can you list your stats if known: velocity throwing the ball overhand home to 1st speed, batting avg. slugging avg, homeruns, exit speed off tee, etc., (PITCHERS: pitching velocity, best control pitches) (CATCHERS: Pop-time)
Pop time :1.8 Homeruns: 24 Batting average: for this past travel ball season: .365
How long have you been playing softball? And is softball your first sport or only sport?
I have been playing softball since I was 7. Softball is my first sport followed closely by volleyball.
If junior or senior: Have you been on any official or unofficial college visits?
None yet, Covid has really slowed down the process, but I’m hoping to change that soon.
What position do you play? Why?
My primary position is catching. I started catching in 12u because at the time, no one on my team wanted to, so I volunteered. I have stuck with it ever since. Catching is something that I LOVE. My personality and catching go really well together, so the communicative part of it come very natural to me.
The biggest highlight to date playing softball?
My biggest highlight to date happened on April 11, 2019. My school ball team, GPS, was playing out rival team Baylor. Bases loaded 0-0 ballgame, count 2-2, and I hit a grandslam. Best Feeling Ever. We ended up winning the game 5-0.
Tell something about your long-term dreams and goals.
My long-term dream or goal is to help people. Growing up I’ve always had the support I needed from teachers, parents, coaches, community, etc., and I want to give back to my awesome community and the people that have helped me along the way.
What is a fun fact about you?
To get my first ever out in softball, I was at first base and I squatted down and closed my eyes and when I opened them back up I had caught the pop up that had come right to me.
How important is attending camps to you for the recruiting process?
Attending camps has been super helpful in being able to get to know coaches and their way of coaching, it’s also help when trying to make connections in the softball community.
You are the “hidden gem” that I scour the internet to find, what took you so long to get on Twitter?
I’ve been asked this question a lot. At first, I didn’t know the impact Twitter had in the softball world. And secondly, I’ve never really felt as if I should post all of my successes. I didn’t want people to think that I was full of myself or bragging in anyway, I’ve always been really humble when it comes to my success. But I’ve realized that people don’t take my video of me throwing three people out or my homerun as me bragging, only as me trying to make myself known and putting myself out there. I’m still trying to get used to posting on social media and to continue to do that.
Staff Photo by Robin Rudd/GPS catcher Ansley Blevins (24) leaps as she celebrates teammate Brynley Oliver score. Also celebrating are Elizabeth Warwick 14) and the rest of the Bruiser bench. Blevins hit a grand slam home run earlier in the game. The Baylor Lady Raiders visited the Girls Preparatory School Bruisers in TSSAA softball action. The Bruisers won 5 to 0.
How has being a student-athlete impacted your life?
Being a student athlete, especially at a primarily academic school, has taught me how to be discipline when getting work done on and off the field. It’s always helped me make so many connections and friends outside of school.
What makes you tick? What has shaped your journey in life to now?
Thank the Lord my family hasn’t had any major struggles. My tick is that I have a desire to compete and be my best. I want to do everything I can to see my teammates and myself be successful.
Being a student-athlete is a huge commitment for you. What does it mean to you, to have your family support you?
My family’s support means everything to me. Without them I wouldn’t be where I am today and I’m so grateful for the time, money, and effort they have put into my success on the field and court.
How important is it to you and your family to be recruited to attend college on a scholarship?
My parents have been paying for travel ball, softball and volleyball, and my schooling since the 6th grade. I really want to return the favor by not wanting them to worry for my college. I’ve worked so hard to become the player that I am in hopes that I won’t have to worry about college debt and that I can have a great experience at whatever school I choose.
Do you know what degree field you are going to study, and why?
Either Speech Pathology and Otology or Dermatology. I really want to help people and give back to others, and being able to make children and adults confident in their body would be a great way of achieving that goal.
How important is team chemistry for success, compared to without it?
I am very big on team chemistry. From my experience, teams that don’t have it, tend to fail when they shouldn’t. I have played multiples teams that should have beat us easily, but my team works so well together that we find a way to pull out a win.
What are your thoughts about how important the “dugout” atmosphere (when winning and losing?)
ALWAYS LOUD!!! No matter if you are down by one or fifteen, there is always a chance to come back, but if you are quiet and don’t bring any energy, there is no way you can make a comeback. I think being quiet and down on yourself projects to other teams, coaches and parents that you have no confidence in yourself, or teammates.
Part of being a “Beautiful Beast” is the ability to overcome obstacles. (not trying to be too personal) but what obstacles have you faced and had to overcome and how did softball help in that effort?
Softball just helps relieve me from my stress from off the field. It’s my outlet when I’m having a bad day.
What makes you a great teammate?
I am just as happy for their success as if it were mine.
If you are the team captain, what makes you a great one for your team?
I am very communicative and loud and very uplifting and encouraging, I love to have fun with my teammates but also know when it’s time to be serious.
What is your favorite music?
Anything that has a good beat, pretty much anything I can get hyped to.
Your ideal “walk-up” song?
Walk It Talk It by MIGOS. It’s been my walk-up song for the past three years, and its not going to change.
What do you think your best skills are?
I’m very loud and energetic and communicative.
Do you have idols that you look up to? Why?
My grandfather. He played in the majors and coached baseball for forever. He’s almost in his 80s, yet he still plays slow pitch softball. His love for the game is something that I strive to hold onto for the rest of my life.
Do you have siblings and what does it mean to have their support?
I have an older brother Braden; he has always been very supportive of me an always jokes that I’m the athlete of the family. I’ve always looked up to him.
Favorite quote?
“Anything’s possible, you gotta dream like you’ve never seen obstacles.” -J Cole
Leadership Quote?
“A life is not important except in the impact it has on other lives.” -Jackie Robinson
Bible quote or other that really inspires you?
“For with God nothing shall be impossible.” -Luke 1:37
What stereotypes bother you?
That catchers are short and small.
What motivates you?
My desire to be the best I can be.
What are your thoughts on social media, as there is so much good content but there is also a lot of inappropriate, irrelevant, and drama. How do you strike a balance?
I try to be the most genuine person I can be on social media. It’s harder for kids now to be fully conscious about what they are putting online because “everyone else is doing it.” But nowadays, nothing is private. I don’t put anything on social media that I wouldn’t want the coach of my future school, or my grandparents to see.
Coaches quotes.
“6’0 C/1B born leader. Honestly, she’s every coaches dream. I’m not sure I’ve ever seen a more vocal leader in my life which is sometimes rare at this age. AGB can hit a ton at the plate “5 total K’s all summer”. She’s definitely a tough out. She has a very good pop time coming in around 1.82-1.85 and can lead the defense as good or better than most coaches. Very low maintenance off the field and very good academically with a spectacular support system! I would most definitely recommend this young lady and I can say with no hesitation at all, she will immediately make your team and your university better.”
-Josh Henson, Hotshots
“Ansley is a natural leader on and off the field. She knows and understands that work ethic in the classroom and on the field have to be the same if she wants to achieve her goals. She has worked like crazy in the weight room and is seeing the benefits in her power numbers at the plate as well as her defensive game.”
-Susan Crownover, GPS
Parents quotes.
“Ansley has always been a bottle of energy with an outgoing and loving personality who strives to be the bigger person in compromised situations and will be the first to speak up on behalf of someone in need. Through her close relationship with her grandparents and family, she respects her elders and is consistently encouraged to be a fearless leader and competitor in everything she wants to achieve, and it shows. Her accomplishments over the years have been great, but I am most proud of the character, integrity and determination that this kid brings into our lives each day.”
Mom & Dad
The “Mission” and “Why” behind Beautiful Beasts of Softball can be found here:
With the current COVID-19 pandemic, what has been the impact in your area and how has it impacted softball?
With the current situation, the pandemic managed to shut down basically everything. With us being quarantined, my team and I weren’t able to practice together. This definitely made my quarantine worse. We had to just practice on our own and send videos to our coaches. During this quarantine practice, I realized how important softball and my team is to me. I really missed my team. A positive impact was I got to focus on myself and improve my skills and strength.
Can you list all awards and honors that you have received academically, as well as playing softball?
Academic Awards: 2019 – 2020 Scholar Athlete Award – RHS Volleyball 2018-2019 Scholar Athlete Award – RHS Volleyball & Softball Principal’s Honor Roll from Elementary to present
Softball Awards: 2019 Varsity Starter – Rodriguez High School 2019 All League Honorable Mention as a freshman for RHS Varsity Softball 2019 Invited to ONDECK Softball Rosetta Canyon Jamboree Event & selected to play All Star Games 2018 PGF Nationals 14u Platinum 2018 Berth in Portland Qualifier for PGF Nationals 14u 2018 Colorado Sparkler – Chosen All Star & All American Team 2017 USA Softball All American Games 12u Inaugural (Region 10- White) Oklahoma City, OK 2016 PGF Tournament – Awarded MVP and Hot Hitter 2017 USSSA 12U State Champions
Do you have a nick name? What are you known as by your teammates, friends, and your parents?
I don’t have a nickname 🙂 Everyone just calls me Kate!
Can you list your stats if known: velocity throwing the ball overhand home to 1st speed, batting avg. slugging avg, homeruns, exit speed off tee, etc., (PITCHERS: pitching velocity, best control pitches) (CATCHERS: Pop-time)
Stats for 2020 Summer (based on 7 games) – Throwing velocity: 62 mph, home to 1st: 2.6 secs, Batting avg: 625, Slugging avg: 1.750, Homeruns: 4
You are a GREAT example of a young person of faith. Who was your influence to becoming such a dedicated young person of faith? (Who helped to spark the fire?)
I grew up in a Catholic household. My parents taught me how to believe in God and to offer all that I do to him. Throughout the years I learned that God is always here for me and will always be here. I’m thankful for everything he has done for me.
Can you talk about the importance of your faith and playing elite softball? (Tell us something about your faith journey that others may not know about you)
My faith is important while I play softball. My family and I go to church as much as we can on Sundays when there is no softball. This gives me more opportunity to follow God’s way to make sure I can bring it to the field. When I get nervous, I always say a prayer to God to help me get through the game knowing he is always there. Before every game I say a prayer to help protect all players on the field. He always answers my prayers. I’m so thankful that God blessed me with the talent I have in the sport I love.
How long have you been playing softball? And is softball your first sport or only sport?
Softball is the first sport that I played. I actually had no idea that the sport even existed until my friend told me to try out. When I was 5, I joined my first team in Bobby Sox. I’m 16 now so I’ve been playing for about 11 years and I’ve never stopped loving the game. Softball isn’t the only sport I play. In my freshman year of high school I decided I wanted to play another sport other than softball. My parents suggested volleyball and I felt like it was a good idea. I had no experience with volleyball but I tried out anyway and I made the team!! Don’t be afraid to try new things, you never know what can happen!
What position do you play? Why?
I play SS and 3B for softball. I really enjoy playing shortstop. It is my favorite position. I honestly think the position is really fun but I play short because I have a lot of range to get to the ball and lots of range is important for that position. I like the position because I love the feeling I get making a diving play with my range up the middle or in the 5,6 hole.
The biggest highlight to date playing softball?
One of my biggest highlights playing softball is getting to play for the Inaugural 12U USA Softball Team in Oklahoma. This was an amazing experience getting to meet new people and create a bond between them. My favorite part was when I got the chance to play on the biggest stage for World Series College Softball, the Oklahoma Stadium. This was one of the best experiences ever. Another highlight was when I got invited and participated in the Rosetta Canyon OnDeck Jamboree. I was in awe with all the coaches that attended the jamboree. I learned how to really keep my composure while feeling very nervous during the pressure-packed moments. This was also an amazing experience and I’m very thankful.
Tell something about your long-term dreams and goal.
My goal is to play and be a starter at a D1 school. When I was still young, I already knew that I wanted to play at the highest level. Along with playing at a D1 school, I also want to be able to major in Biochemistry. I hope to graduate in 4 years and get my Bachelor of Science Degree. I want to eventually become a Pharmacist.
What is something about you that others would not know, that you are willing to share?
Something people don’t know about me is I am ambidextrous. I eat and write with my left hand but throw with my right and hit on the right side. Another thing people don’t know that I do besides play softball is I can play the guitar. I first learned how to play the ukulele when I was 5 and I wanted to try something different. I started playing guitar in 7th grade from my guitar class in school. I enjoyed the class and I continue to play to this day.
How important is attending camps to you for the recruiting process?
I think attending college camps is important for the recruiting process. Going to the camp allows you to showcase your skills for the coaches in person. You also get to talk to them and create a relationship. Some camps might provide a campus tour. This is important as well because you can see if the campus is a good fit for you.
You are the “hidden gem” that I scour the internet to find, what took you so long to get on Twitter?
I got on Twitter 4 years ago but I never really used it as much as my other social media. I never really thought about using my social media like Twitter and Instagram as another source to use for the recruiting process.
How has being a student-athlete impacted your life?
Being a student athlete has impacted my life in many ways. Being a student athlete requires so much time and effort trying to excel in both school and sports. It has taught me how to be disciplined and manage my time. It has also taught me that it is okay to fail. Student athletes go through struggles and we sometimes fail. When we fail, we can learn from our mistakes to succeed. I think when we fail, our competitiveness kicks in and we work our hardest to become greater. I’ve learned to never give up and always do my best.
What makes you tick? What has shaped your journey in life to now?
I think seeing a player on another team that is highly talented makes me tick because I challenge myself to take my skills to another level to help my team compete. That is when my competition kicks in even more going harder at every action I make.
Being a student-athlete is a huge commitment for you. What does it mean to you, to have your family support you?
To have my family support me through this journey means the world to me. They have literally done so much for me. I’m so thankful for them because my parents drive me everywhere to play and pay for all the expenses. I really do appreciate all the hard work they put in, always working overtime to cover the expenses for me to play. They do everything they can to help me reach my goals. I also appreciate my brothers supporting me and teaching me things about school to get to my goals. I love my family so much and I couldn’t have done anything without them. ❤
How important is it to you and your family to be recruited to attend college on a scholarship?
It is so important to my family and I to be recruited with a scholarship. It is important to my parents because I would be the first in the family to be able to accomplish the goal. It is important to me because it has been my goal for the longest and I can help my parents with tuition fees. I have been and will continue to do my all until I accomplish my goals.
Do you know what degree field you are going to study, and why?
I want to study Biochemistry. My favorite subjects in school are math and science. I like working with numbers and learning about chemicals.
How important is team chemistry for success, compared to without it?
I think that team chemistry is everything. With good team chemistry, the whole team plays better. I think that we can better understand each other and what each player brings to the table with team chemistry. When we can understand each other, then we can learn how to increase each other’s strengths and reduce our weaknesses. A team with good chemistry will make sacrifices to benefit the team. A team with good chemistry can do anything they set their mind to. Also, good chemistry just helps make every game fun!
What are your thoughts about how important the “dugout” atmosphere (when winning and losing?)
The dugout atmosphere, no matter what the situation is, always has to be high. It should always be loud to keep your energy high. I think when you’re always cheering can also help you stay focused and locked in on what is going on in the game. The energy should ALWAYS be positive. The atmosphere should be like this while losing as well because you can always come back if you have the energy and work ethic to do it!
Part of being a “Beautiful Beast” is the ability to overcome obstacles. (not trying to be too personal) but what obstacles have you faced and had to overcome and how did softball help in that effort?
One problem I had before was I was always too hard on myself. I always wanted to do good and never wanted to fail. Everyone struggles and I didn’t understand that at the time. So once I struggled, I would get a little bit of an attitude and break down kinda. As I kept playing, I learned that it is okay to fail. Softball taught me that everyone fails and the only way to solve it is if you learn from your mistakes and try again. I learned that I cannot be mad at myself for failing. However, I use the bad feeling I get to work harder and improve my skills.
I am a good teammate because I am always there for my teammates. When they’re not performing at their best, I will talk to them to help them get back up. Even the little things. When it’s been a long day for them, I will carry their bag for them. Their shoes are untied? I’m right there already tying them. I love my teammates and I’ll always take care of them.
If you are the team captain, what makes you a great one for your team?
I would make a good team captain because I think I set a good example. When I set a good example, they feed off my positivity and passion getting us closer to reach our goals. I am good at communicating. I know how to approach a player by knowing how they feel and deal with a situation. I have the dedication and passion that can help take my team to the next level and achieve our goals together!!
What is your favorite music?
I’ll listen to any type of music but I think my favorites are Alternative R&B and Alternative Hip Hop. I also like Hawaiian music because it is the only thing my dad listens to 24/7!!
Your ideal “walk up” song?
My ideal walk up songs would either have to be “Party Up” by DMX, “Let Me Clear My Throat” by DJ Kool, or “Jump Around” by House of Pain
What do you think your best skills are?
I think my best skills are my softball IQ, my power, my speed, and my range. I use my softball IQ to think 3 steps ahead of the game. I always know where my runners are, how fast they are, where the batter hit it last time, and what to do with the ball before I get it. I have a strong arm and I am a power hitter that hits with a high average. My time from home to first is 2.6 from the right side. I use my speed and quickness to cover more field.
Do you have idols that you look up to? Why?
My dad is my idol. He played baseball when he was a kid and played a little in the minor leagues. I know he was great when he played and I always try to be as great as him and sometimes even better. He has taught me many things that helped make me the great softball player I am today. I just love the feeling I get when I know he’s proud of me.
Do you have siblings and what does it mean to have their support?
I have 2 older brothers. Like I said before, it means so much to have their support. They help push me to achieve my goal at playing D1 softball while having a good education. It feels great when they tell me “good job” and seeing them be proud of me. I’m thankful for them because they also talk to me about college and give me advice for me to be ready.
How important is the mental toughness in the game, school, and life?
Oh, the mental part of the game, school, and life is so important hands down. In softball, without mental toughness you will not be able to play to your full potential. You need to have mental toughness to stay calm and play through pressure. Every player goes through obstacles and we use mental toughness to fight through them and bounce back from slumps and mistakes. Same thing for school and life. You ALWAYS bounce back from obstacles when you’ve got mental toughness no matter how hard it gets.
Favorite quote?
“Some people want it to happen, some wish it would happen, others make it happen.” & “I’ve missed more than 9000 shots in my career. I’ve lost almost 300 games. 26 times, I’ve been trusted to take the game winning shot and missed. I’ve failed over and over and over again in my life. And that is why I succeed.” – both Michael Jordan
Softball Quote?
“Sweat dries, blood clots and bones heal. Suck it up, Princess. This is softball.”-unknown
Leadership Quote?
“A true leader has the confidence to stand alone, the courage to make tough decisions, and the compassion to listen to the needs of others. He does not set out to be a leader, but becomes one by the equality of his actions and the integrity of his intent.” –Douglas MacArthur
Family/Life Quote?
“In truth a family is what you make it. It is made strong, not by number of heads counted at the dinner table, but by the rituals you help family members create, by the memories you share, by the commitment of time, caring, and love you show to one another, and by the hopes for the future you have as individuals and as a unit.” –Marge Kennedy
Bible quote or other that really inspires you?
“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.” Deuteronomy 31:6
&
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11
What stereotypes bother you?
One stereotype that bothers me is when people say only tall and big girls will get looked at by coaches. Also when they say the only reason people get looked at is because they’re big. That is so not true. To me, your size doesn’t matter at all. You can be the biggest player on the team or the smallest player on the team, doesn’t matter. If you’re a great player then you are great. Your size does not determine the skill level you play at. It’s about how good you want to be. It’s if you have that dedication and drive to become the player that all the coaches look at.
My family motivates me. They believe in my potential and they help push me to be at my best. My team also motivates me. I love my team and they make every game fun. My potential motivates me as well. I set high goals for myself and I know I have the potential to reach them. I work harder everyday to achieve my goals.
What are your thoughts on social media, as there is so much good content but there is also a lot of inappropriate, irrelevant, and drama. How do you strike a balance?
I think social media can be negative and inappropriate sometimes. I use it to share memories and of course, post pretty pictures of myself. 😉 I never use it to create drama or inappropriate things. I just scroll past posts like that because it is never worth being a part of things like that.
Coaches quotes.
Kate is the kind of athlete any coach is happy to have on their team. She is hard working, dedicated, always focused on getting better and has fun. She leads her team by her actions and never takes a pitch off. She has power at the plate, speed on the base paths and great range in the field. She will take the extra base or lay out for a ball whenever possible. She is confident and humble. I can not wait to see where life takes her and what amazing things she accomplishes.
Emily Atkinson – Head Softball Coach Ohana Tigers 18u Gold
Parents quotes.
Kate has been such a great and loving daughter, sister and friend. Very smart and beautiful. We couldn’t ask for anything more from a daughter like her. Ever since she was born, her first word was baseball. So, we knew that was her sport. Her older brothers were very good football players and basketball players. So, she took up softball. She excelled so quickly and with so much passion into learning the game. She competed with determination and grit to help her team out. It’s been a pleasure and blessing to have coached her since she was 5 years old. To see her blossom into such a phenomenal and scholar athlete is Gods Blessing. Our prayers for her success has been answered all the time. We thank God our savior for his blessing to our family. We can’t wait to see what the future holds for Kate in softball, college and life. We know she will work hard and be successful in her own way.
Love Dad, Mom, Nic and Josh.
The “Mission” and “Why” behind Beautiful Beasts of Softball can be found here:
DGS ‘23 3.93gpa, JV, LockportPride16U-KS, RHP/1B/3B #95, Marching Mustangs Perc Band, Nat’I/IL/Pierce Downer Children of the AmRevolution, Downers Grove, IL
I asked Kellar several questions for her interview,
Let’s get to know her!!
With the unprecedented shutdown of the country, limited reopening due to COVID-19 what are your thoughts dealing with this? Do you know anyone who has been sicken with it? How are you staying engaged with friends?
I think it’s best to stay home, and if you are going to go out, wear a mask and social distance. I think it’s very important to social distance. I do not know anyone who is sick with it, but my Grandma is in a memory care facility, and so far, they haven’t had any cases there, and I’m hoping it stays that way. For the most part, I am only face-timeing with friends. If we do meet in person, we are going to the park, or riding bikes, which we can do 6’ apart.
Can you list all awards and honors that you have received academically, as well as playing softball?
Jennie Finch and BBOS Kellar LamBeau
Academic:
8th grade
Select 58 Recognition Award; 1 of 58 students in District 58 “who provide outstanding service to their school and community”, nominated by a community member or staff.
Children of the American Revolution local, state, regional and national contest winner
Daughters of the American Revolution Junior American Citizen national contest winner
9th grade:
Honor Roll (3.5-4.0), 1st semester
High Honor Roll (4.0+), 2nd semester
Member of IL State Marching Band 6A champions
DGS Marching Mustangs Director’s award (first time ever given to a freshman)
DGS Concert Band Most Valuable Percussionist award
Children of the American Revolution local, state, regional and national contest winner
Softball:
9th grade:
2nd place 14U, St. Louis Softball Showcase II
1st place 14U, USA/ASA Chicago Metros
Selected for high school JV team as a freshman – unfortunately, due to COVID, we didn’t play a single game
Do you have a nick name? What are you known as by your teammates, friends, and your parents?
Not really. My teammates sometimes call me Kels. Close friends and family call me Kel. But most everyone just calls me Kellar, which is fine.
Can you list your stats if known: velocity throwing the ball overhand home to 1st speed, batting avg. slugging avg, homeruns, exit speed off tee, etc., (PITCHERS: pitching velocity, best control pitches) (CATCHERS: Pop-time)
Homeruns: 5 in July-only 2020 summer season (2 tournaments)
All pitches: fast, change, curve, screw, drop; adding rise ball
How long have you been playing softball? And is softball your first sport or only sport?
I have been playing softball since I was in kindergarten, so I’m starting my 10th year. Softball was my first sport, but a couple months later, I also joined a competitive swim team.
What position do you play? Why?
I am a pitcher, and play 1st and 3rd. When I first start playing, I wanted to play 1st because it was where all the action was. In elementary school softball not much happens in the outfield!
I originally wanted to play 3rd because so many balls are hit on that side of the field, and there were some plays there, too. Over time, the position really grew on me.
I had a strong arm and early-on was one of the few girls who could make the long throws, so those were good positions for me.
I like pitching the most, because I like being in control of things – even if it drives me crazy when I’m too hard on myself. I like setting the pace of the game, and knowing that there are 7 girls behind me and my catcher in front of me supporting me and keeping me on task.
If you have ever been injured please answer, if not then skip: Can you tell me about your injuries? Details of what, how, when and your road to recovery?
During 10U, I sliced my right thumb open on a piece of sheet metal that my cousins were using as a wiffle ball backstop. I should have gotten stitches, but we didn’t get to the ER in time, so it took longer to recover. I missed about 4 weeks of swim and softball seasons! Eventually I was allowed to pick up a ball and start throwing again. I still have a scar on my thumb.
The biggest highlight to date playing softball?
The first time I hit an over-the-fence homerun in a game, I didn’t realize it went over the fence. I stopped at 2nd, because I didn’t see my coach signaling me to round the base, and I was very confused. Only then did I hear them cheer “it went over, Kel!” and I ran home. That was the only homerun on the team for that season. I was 12 playing up on a 14U team.
Tell something about your long-term dreams and goals.
My goal is to play 4 years of competitive softball in college while I am studying to be an architect. Someday I will work with my parents, and then take over their business.
What is something about you that others would not know, that you are willing to share?
I am active with the national organization Children of the American Revolution. I have many Patriot ancestors who fought for freedom in the Revolutionary War, in several of my ancestry lines. I am the Vice President of the Pierce Downer Society in Downers Grove, and the newly elected Treasurer for the state of Illinois Society.
I have a creative side. I enjoy working on art and craft projects – painting, drawing, making jewelry and cut cards, etc.
I am a musician – I have played percussion in the band since 4th grade, and am now in 4 bands at the high school, including the top Wind Ensemble. Our marching band won the Illinois State High School 6A competition last season, when I was a freshman. It was incredible!
I am a Lake Girl. The lake is my happy place – just like it is for my mom, and grandma, and all the other women in my family! I love being at the water, on the boat, swimming, just relaxing. The lake is my calm.
How important is attending camps to you for the recruiting process?
I think attending camps is important because it gives coaches a better idea of how I take instruction, and act over a longer period of time. If a coach only sees me at a game, they might only see a few pitches, or one at bat. In addition, because of my career choice, there are fewer colleges with my degree program – which means that being seen is more important by those coaches from schools I’m interested in.
You are the “hidden gem” that I scour the internet to find, what took you so long to get on Twitter?
I don’t think I’m a “hidden gem” – I haven’t been hiding anywhere, I just wasn’t advertising myself! I never really thought about Twitter until last year when a coach mentioned that most college softball coaches use Twitter to watch and follow players. I like that it’s fast and easy to share pictures and videos with a few notes.
How has being a student-athlete impacted your life?
Being a student athlete has helped me learn time-management, and how to be a better student. I have to prioritize my activities throughout the day, to make sure that I can fit in school, homework, softball practice, band practice, work, family, and spending time with friends. Being a student athlete also helps with school work because I am used to being coached, given directions, and constructive criticism.
What makes you tick? What has shaped your journey in life to now?
I think what has shaped my journey in life, and where I am today, is that after playing softball for a few years I realized it was something I could really excel at.
I started playing softball in kindergarten because my Dad is very sports-centered, and my brother isn’t interested in sports at all. So, although I always was (and am!) a girly “Daddy’s girl”, I also do all the sports stuff he doesn’t get to do with my brother. My Dad and I spend a lot of time together, and we can get sort of crazy with our jokes and goofing off. It’s not a struggle or a “journey”, but it’s definitely shaped me.
Being a student-athlete is a huge commitment for you. What does it mean to you, to have your family support you?
I couldn’t play softball if my parents didn’t support me. It’s a huge commitment – paying for fees and equipment and lessons and driving to and from games and practices. I’m really grateful to my family for supporting me. I love when parents are at the games and watch me do well. I wish my brother liked softball more, but it’s sort of torture for him! He will still congratulate me on playing well, though.
How important is it to you and your family to be recruited to attend college on a scholarship?
I think it’s very important to have a scholarship because my brother is a year older than me and there will be 2 of us in college at the same time, for several years. I don’t know much about my family’s finances, but I know that there are a lot of schools I just can’t afford to go to without academic and/or athletic scholarships.
Do you know what degree field you are going to study, and why?
I want to study architecture. Both of my parents are licensed architects, and run 12/12 Architects from home, so I have known from an early age what they do, and what the career requires. I am most interested in designing houses – that’s mostly what my parents do. My mom started her own business, and worked at it for 15 years before my dad joined her, so I know what’s possible for a woman in a career with mostly men. I have taken an online architecture class, and am excited to do more in high school next year.
How important is team chemistry for success, compared to without it?
I think you have to work as a team to play softball successfully. One person can’t carry the whole team, and everyone has to contribute. If you don’t act like a team off the field, you’re not going to play like a team on the field.
What are your thoughts about how important the “dugout” atmosphere (when winning and losing?)
I think it’s very important to always be cheering and on the fence. Once you’re sitting on the bench, you’ve given up or simply aren’t paying attention to what everyone else is doing. It’s just as important, or more important when losing as it is exciting when winning. If there’s still game to play, the whole team needs to be “in it to win it.”
Part of being a “Beautiful Beast” is the ability to overcome obstacles. (not trying to be too personal) but what obstacles have you faced and had to overcome and how did softball help in that effort?
Confidence used to be a real issue for me – but softball has helped. Not only because I’ve gotten better as a player myself, but because I have my teammates and friends cheering for me. I also have a coach who is always supportive and helpful – even, and especially, when I’m too hard on myself. I know that when I’m on the mound, the girls are cheering “you got this, Kel” and helping get the outs.
What makes you a great teammate?
I’m a great teammate because I’m always cheering for my teammates, and trying to pick them up if they have a bad at-bat or something. I know what it’s like to strikeout, or miss a catch or fumble a ball – and I want to make sure that they know I support them no matter what. I do what I can to keep everyone smiling.
What is your favorite music?
I mostly listen to pop music from the last 20 years, but also the “oldies” my mom loves – lots from the 80s and older. But we listen to everything, from Johnny Cash to Beatles to Joan Jett to Taylor Swift to Panic at the Disco.
Your ideal “walk-up” song?
I don’t really know – I’ve never had a walk-up song.
You were made for this, Kellar!
Coach Cowan
What do you think your best skills are?
My best skills are throwing fast and hard, and hitting.
Do you have idols that you look up to? Why?
I recognize great softball players like Jennie Finch and Amanda Scarborough, but I’m not sure I idolize them. We are different people with different histories.
I suppose I most look up to my former band director Mr. Brooks because he wasn’t scared to be himself. He always told me to put myself out there and just be me – and that changed the way I think about so many things. He was a really big part of my life for my freshman year. Even though he moved to Texas and he’s not my teacher any more, I KNOW he will always be in my life, supporting me from a distance.
Do you have siblings and what does it mean to have their support? (They likely look to you as their idol, if younger)
I have one brother named Cooper. We are only 18 months apart in age, so we either get along great, or bicker, as most siblings do. Cooper has autism, and so he is much more interested in drawing anime and video games and LEGO building than being at my games. Even though he is not interested in softball AT ALL, he still supports me as a player and as his little sister. We will always be there for each other, no matter what.
How important is the mental toughness in the game, school, and life?
I think mental toughness is super important because I’ve always been told that softball is a game of failure. You have to be willing to fail to succeed. I think the same goes for school and life. Mistakes are made all the time, and it’s the ability to learn from them and get back up and try again that matter.
Favorite quote?
“You can kill the dreamer, but you can’t kill the dream.”
-Martin Luther King, Jr.
Softball Quote?
“Play for the name on the front of the shirt, and they will remember the name on the back.”
-Tony Adams
“Practice like you have never won. Compete like you have never lost.”
-Jennie Finch
Leadership Quote?
“Leadership is an active, living process. It is rooted in character, forged by experience, and communicated by example.”
-John Baldoni
Family/Life Quote?
“If everything was perfect, you would never learn and never grow.”
-Beyonce
Bible quote or other that really inspires you?
“Ability is what you’re capable of doing. Motivation determines what you do. Attitude determines how well you do it.”
-Lou Holtz
What stereotypes bother you?
Stereotypes that girls are weak bother me a lot. I feel like when people hear I play softball, they underestimate me and the girls who play the sport.
What motivates you?
I’m motivated most by my team because even if they don’t realize that they’re doing it, whenever we play together, they’re making me better, and I want to play better, too.
What are your thoughts on social media, as there is so much good content but there is also a lot of inappropriate, irrelevant, and drama. How do you strike a balance?
I enjoy social media because it’s a way to connect with my friends and see what other people are doing in softball or band or school. I like that it’s a way to preserve memories. But I also avoid drama at all costs, and I block, ignore or hide toxic people and comments. I only use Instagram and Twitter – I’m not on Snapchat or TikTok or Facebook, where there seems to be a lot more drama – so that helps.
Coaches quotes
“It was a privilege to Coach Kellar. Her hard work and coachability has allowed her to continue to develop into a real threat at the plate. Any program would be lucky to have such a player.”
-Coach Abbey McKee, Downers Grove South High School, Junior Varsity Coach
“Kellar’s zealous and optimistic attitude makes her the type of player we love to coach. Her motivation is revealed through her hard work on and off the field. Kellar is one of those players with big heart and big game, her smile draws you in but her bat backs you up. Got to love players that have those qualities. “
-Coach Kristina Shahan, Lockport Pride 16U Head Coach (2nd season coaching Kellar)
“Kellar is the type of pitcher who works toward her goals every day. She is constantly looking for ways to get better and she ALWAYS has a smile on her face where you can tell she loves pitching and putting in work! Kellar isn’t scared to push herself and get uncomfortable, as she knows getting out of your comfort zone is the best way to get better! She continues to improve because of her combination of passion, hard work and her ability to push through any failure she faces. She carries on beautifully.”
-Amanda Scarborough, All American softball pitcher (Texas A&M), Big12 Conference Player of the Year (2005), ESPN sports broadcaster and analyst, and founder and pitching instructor at Pitching Angel.
Parents quotes
“Kellar was born on her schedule (not mine!) and was “large and in charge” since her first breath. She walked at 8-months old, and hasn’t stopped moving since! She missed the cut-off date for starting kindergarten by 20 days, so we petitioned the school to have her admitted early. It was the best decision ever, because she was so ready to learn and do more, even at 4 years old.
Kellar is a dedicated honors student, an excellent athlete, a talented artist, a gifted musician, is hilariously funny, loves her friends and family, and has a smile to melt mountains. We are so lucky to call her daughter. She made our family whole.”
-Cinda Lester, Mom
“Clean your room!”
“This is a very simple game. You throw the ball, you catch the ball, you hit the ball. Sometimes you win, sometimes you lose, sometimes it rains. Think about that for a while.” [Bull Durham]
-Henri LamBeau, Dad
The “Mission” and “Why” behind Beautiful Beasts of Softball can be found here:
I asked Alisa several questions for her interview,
BBOS – Alisa Sneed
Let’s get to know her!
With the unprecedented shutdown of the country, limited reopening due to COVID-19 what are your thoughts dealing with this?
I just pray everyone stays safe and we get back to normal soon. Do you know anyone who has been sicken with it? I do not know anyone that was sick with the virus. How are you staying engaged with friends? My friends are my softball teammates and we have been engaging and practicing since the beginning.
You may have heard the term “five–tool player” used to describe the rare player that excels at all five of the major physical tools (Speed, Throwing, Fielding, Hitting for Average, and Hitting for Power) Alisa has the very rare 6th tool as well, mental toughness. Making her a generational talent – on and off the field!
Coach Cowan – Beautiful Beasts of Softball
Can you list all awards and honors that you have received academically, as well as playing softball?
Academic Awards: National Junior Honor Society AB HONOR Roll in AP classes
Softball & Other Sports Awards: Tournament MVP – Softball 2020 State Champion – 10u Cowart Sports College Station 1st place – Track and field pole volt at 7′ 6″ 1st place – 110 and 300 in hurdles 1st place – Long jump 15.9 feet 2nd and 3rd place – in relays 4×1 and 4×4
Do you have a nick name? What are you known as by your teammates, friends, and your parents?
I do have a nickname, one of my teammates calls me Flapjack because of my glove. My parents call me Lis.
How long have you been playing softball? And is softball your first sport or only sport?
I have been playing softball for 3 years. It was a game-changer for me. My first sport I played was baseball.
Can you list your stats if known: velocity throwing the ball overhand home to 1st speed,batting avg. slugging avg, homeruns, exit speed off tee, etc., (PITCHERS: pitching velocity, best control pitches) (CATCHERS: Pop-time)
HM to 1st-2.5sec, batting average: this season .472, Total HR: 27. I am unsure of the rest of the stats, we have never recorded them.
I play shortstop and centerfield. I play center because of my speed and I am able to track down balls hit to the outfield and I play shortstop because my arm and I charge the ball no matter how hard it’s coming.
If you have ever been injured please answer, if not then skip: Can you tell me about your injuries? Details of what, how, when, and your road to recovery?
I have been injured and I’m currently injured but I am battling it off and on making sure to rest it. So my first injury was that I fractured my toe and it was painful but I had to work through it. My second one was that I sprained my ankle and had to wear a boot. It was hard not to do anything and just watch.
The biggest highlight to date playing softball?
For me, it was hitting my first home run because it made me work harder to keep completing my goals.
Tell something about your long-term dreams and goals.
My dreams and goals are to play college ball, I would love to make the USA team.
What is something about you that others would not know, that you are willing to share?
I do not like to hug.
How important is attending camps to you for the recruiting process?
Attending camps are very important to me, I want to play college ball one day.
You are the “hidden gem” that I scour the internet to find, what took you so long to get on Twitter?
I just recently became aware of twitter and the importance of getting my face in front of college coaches.
How has being a student-athlete impacted your life?
I have always been a student-athlete. I have been playing sports since I was 5 years old. My parents have kept me busy with school and sports. The first time that I played in school sports was amazing, It has made me feel more determined about my athletic ability and my school work. My parents don’t let me slack on my grades.
What makes you tick? What has shaped your journey in life to now?
Whenever I make a mistake I get mad at myself, but as my coach has said it’s in the past you can make it up in the field or in your next at-bat. So I have to look at that with life and know there is always another day. I have never known a family member close to me pass away. I have been very blessed to have both of my parents in my life.
Being a student-athlete is a huge commitment for you. What does it mean to you, to have your family support you?
My family has always supported me. My mom holds me accountable. My mom will tell me: I’m not doing this if you’re not all in. She pushes me to be better. My dad pays me for my homeruns.
How important is it to you and your family to be recruited to attend college on a scholarship?
It is extremely important for me to be recruited. That is my life dream to play college ball and hopefully not have too many student loans.
Do you know what degree field you are going to study, and why?
I want to be in the softball field. I am unsure if I want to coach yet, I just want to stay in the field.
How important is team chemistry for success, compared to without it?
In my opinion, I think that it is very important. For example, if you and your team have chemistry it will run smoothly as a defense like who’s covering any bag so the catcher can’t throw the runner out. Also, like how strong your outfielder’s arms are, etc. If there is no chemistry there’s no way of knowing if they will be ready for the ball.
What are your thoughts about how important the “dugout” atmosphere (when winning and losing?)
It is very important to have a good atmosphere in the dugout. For example, So if you are winning the dugout will be hype and ecstatic it’s one of the best feelings you will ever have, but if you are losing it’s always good to have a better perspective so you and your team can try and comeback.
Part of being a “Beautiful Beast” is the ability to overcome obstacles. (not trying to be too personal) but what obstacles have you faced and had to overcome and how did softball help in that effort?
When I first started playing softball I had to overcome and adjust. It was a transition from baseball to softball. I was used to competing with boys for spots on the field and in the line-up. It was also different being around girls. I have an older brother and have always been like a Tomboy. I’m still having to adjust, like wearing tight softball pants. I will never give up my hat though. I had to overcome injuries which were the hardest thing for me. I am not the sit and watch type. It killed me when I couldn’t play for 6 weeks. I could not help my team, that was the worst part.
What makes you a great teammate?
I try my best to help out and make sure my teammates are okay and make them laugh and I try my best to do my part on the team.
What is your favorite music?
Upbeat music. It keeps me hyped so I can do my best. Music either pumps you up or brings you down and I like to be pumped up. I like Christian Rap and Regular Rap/Pop music.
Your ideal “walk-up” song?
This is my favorite question because I love my walk-up song. My walk-up song is called “Way Up”. by Bizzle, It’s a Christian Rap song.
What do you think your best skills are?
Best skill in softball is defense. My speed is also one of my skills.
Do you have idols that you look up to? Why?
I do not have idols. I have people that inspire/motivate me. One that is very special to me is Jourdyn Campbell #13 starting shortstop for Texas A&M. She is always pushing me to be better. Other players that inspire me are Sis Bates, Alexis Mack, Shelby McGlaun.
Do you have siblings and what does it mean to have their support?
I have an older brother that competes with me. He inspires me because he pushes me and of course, I need to be better than him.
How important is the mental toughness in the game, school, and life?
Mental toughness is a huge part of your life and especially softball because you can’t just give up when it gets hard you try your hardest and if that doesn’t work you either try harder with 110% or you try and play safe. This applies to school as well, always do your best.
Favorite quote?
“You have to keep running. I always believed I was going to be safe”.-Ricky Henderson
Softball Quote?
In softball, it’s not how good you are, but how good you want to be.
Bible quote or other that really inspires you?
Philippians 4:13 I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
What stereotypes bother you?
The ones that think that softball is easy.
What motivates you?
Winning and having fun with my teammates.
What are your thoughts on social media, as there is so much good content but there is also a lot of inappropriate, irrelevant, and drama? How do you strike a balance?
My parents strike my balance. I’m only allowed 2 social media accounts that I control. Snap chat and Tik Tok. My mom runs my other accounts on Instagram and Twitter.
Coaches quotes
Alisa is in a class of her own! You will not see a better athlete on any softball field than Alisa. I have had the privilege of coaching and watching her for over 4 years and her rare combination of speed and explosive power is awe-inspiring. She is very coachable and works tirelessly on her game. Alisa is Truly a special softball player and I feel there is none better.
Daira Quentel – Texas Riptide
“If there is a better 2025 in the country than Alisa, I would like to see her. She is a true 5 tool player with D1 speed and power all rolled into an 8th grader.”
Coach Sam
Teammates quotes
Alisa is my bestfriend on and off the field from being my throwing partner to making tiktoks. She is one of the hardest working player I know and she is always putting in extra work to do better.
Kaci Gobert – Texas Riptide
Alisa Sneed is an overall amazing person and player off and on the field.She makes an impact everywhere she is such an incredible opportunity to have her as a teammate. She is the pure definition of athlete, and I believe that anyone is lucky to have her on their team.
Alexia Texas Riptide @bxbyg_alexia
Parents quotes
Alisa is a very determined kid. We are extremely proud of her in the fact that she doesn’t give up or give in. She is one of the hardest working kids that we know, but I may be a little biased. Alisa’s academics are very important to her and we are very proud of the student that she has become.
Mom & Dad
The “Mission” and “Why” behind Beautiful Beasts of Softball can be found here:
Beautiful Beasts of Softball blog 