Lisa, thanks for taking the time to talk to 9 Inning Know it All. Please tell us more about yourself.
I am currently wrapping up my sophomore year at Linfield College and originally from Bellevue, WA. I am a family kid through and through and give my parents and siblings a lot of credit for the good I’ve accomplished thus far. I’m just a kid who loves to play softball and spend time in the church because I believe wholeheartedly in Jesus Christ.
Who were your influences growing up?
My pops has always been the greatest guy. I remember going to his slow pitch games and he would just hit home-runs effortlessly and get in the car with blood and dirt all over his shins from going hard. I wanted to be like that. We always butt heads when I was younger but since going to college and even in my senior year of high school, we really got close and I call him up for anything. He’s always been my biggest fan by far. BP with my dad is always a go to.
My high school softball coach, Heather Tracy, was also a big influence in my development. She was never scared to tell me I need to do more. This woman forced me to grow up and be a leader. I owe her a lot for the personal growth I accomplished with her by my side.
You had quite the high school career, is there a season that stands out the most?
My senior season was definitely a highlight; it was the perfect way to leave. I was playing with the kids that I grew up playing little league with. 90% of the kids on the field that year I knew from when I was eight years old. My senior year came with so much confidence in myself and the people around me. I didn’t want it to end. Actually, our team ended up making it to the 3rd/4th place state game and it was one of the two final games being played. I ended up being late to my prom by a few hours because I wanted to play ball.
What brought you to Linfield to play “catball”?
My freshman year I played both softball and soccer and I loved that Linfield provided that experience for me. So that was definitely a main reason. It was a pleasure playing for Dominic Doty and the Women’s soccer program but there was no doubt that catball was for me. I loved that Linfield was pretty close to home and I could go home if I needed to.
You played at Bellevue (Wa) HS. You helped them to a third place finish at the state tournament. What was that experience like?
Being the first team at BHS to ever make it to state was pretty special to be a part of. It’s one of those things no one can ever take from you. It was a great experience and I felt so blessed to be a part of it and it was so much fun to do it again the next year. But I have to say it was nothing compared to playing in the National Championship game for D3 in 2012.
What has been the most memorable experience of your softball career?
Now that’s a tough question- I really can’t give you one specific experience. But playing for Jackson and being a member of catball has been an unforgettable experience. I am so grateful to call myself a catballer. I love these guys and I love my coaches, they have been nothing but the best. I have never seen a group of people that get along so well and love each other to death and also have a strong enough bond to say work harder, do more because every person wants the same thing. It gives me chills just thinking about it.
What’s it like playing at Linfield and playing for Jackson Vaughn?
I don’t think any highlight films or stories do catball justice – it’s something that you’ve got to be a part of to fully understand how special it is. I play with a group of kids that are obsessed with fro yo, love talking in all kinds of accents, put in hours in the weight room and pull all-nighters to get all the homework done. They are unbelievable in every sense. Then we look at what this team has been able to accomplish on the field- it’s amazing, absolutely amazing. I consider myself very blessed in be a part of it. I couldn’t imagine doing it any other way.
What advice would you give to the younger players?
My high school coach used to always tell me “Have fun, play well” and I think it’s perfect. Especially, if you’re still young, enjoy it! Don’t stress too much- you get to run around the bases with your friends, just have fun doing something that’s supposed to be fun. Find joy in hitting off the tee because one day it could be gone. Trust me, I know softball practice doesn’t sound as good as hanging out with friends sometimes but enjoy it while you have it. Secondly, don’t make softball or any sport everything. Take time to do other things or you will weigh yourself down in it. Get involved in activities other than softball.
How has your faith impacted your softball career?
Sports are not easy, failure is an often occurrence and failing is not an easy thing to handle for some people. I was one of those people for a lot of years. I couldn’t control my emotions if my life depended on it. I wore my emotions on my sleeve for everyone to see. You would know what kind of mood I was in from 100 yards away. I constantly fell short of the glory of God and was not walking around with a Christ- like attitude. I have learned over time and have gotten better. Am I perfect? Absolutely not. I still fail, all the time. But I know I do and do my best to accept it, move on and try again.
Who were your favorite players growing up?
I loved John Olerud! He was my favorite player to watch for sure! Go Mariners!
Final question Lisa! Please give us your top five songs of all-time.
1. My oh My- Macklemore
2. I won’t give up- Jason Mraz
3. Amazing Grace- Chris Tomlin
4. Build me up buttercup- The Foundations
5. Rivers and Roads- The Head & the Heart
Lisa, thanks for taking the time to chat with us.