I've been playing this game for 16, almost 17 year now. Most people don't play a sport for that long, let alone learn and grow individually because of a sport. I've learned so many different life lessons due to softball, and I wouldn't be the person I am today without this sport.
Softball has taught me to never take advantage of my talent. I have been hurt but always played through the pain. Last year, I broke my elbow and was inhibited from helping me team. I learned that every time I am on the field, it is another chance that God has given me. Every time I am given the chance to take the field, I play with all the strength and courage I have, because I know that there is some girl out in this world that could only dream of having the opportunity that I am given.
I learned quickly that no amount of money can make me take the field. I played for a small Division 2 school my freshman year of college, and when I played, I only did it for the scholarship money. I was miserable and ready to give up on softball, but I found myself and found a Coach that believed in me and would push me to make me the best player I could be. Soon after I decided I didn't want to play, Coach Burdette called me and told me that he would love to have me on his roster. I felt relieved and blessed to be given another opportunity to play the game I love. Now, I play from my heart, for no money, and I have never enjoyed this sport so much.
I've met so many amazing girls over the years. I keep in touch with these girls and I feel so lucky to know so many wonderful people, all because we share the same passion and love for the game. My relationship with these girls has grown over the years and will continue to remain a part of my life. I have met some of my best friends through softball, and I could not be more grateful for these friendships.
Finally, I have learned how to trust. Softball have shown me that in order to be successful and win, you have to trust your teammates and rely on them to be able to play the best way possible. I believe and have faith in my teammates that we will be able to win and perform the way that we know how to. I have learned how to trust and have learned more from the girls that I play with than from the actuall mechanical aspect of softball. Thank you to everyone who has shaped me into the player that I am. I wouldn't have been able to do it without you ♥️
