Three Strikes, You’re Out
By: Tami Neal
“There’s no crying in baseball!” A famous quote from the movie A League of Their Own brought attention to women’s softball. When we think of students playing sports, softball isn’t one that’s on the top of many people’s list. Jordan is lucky to house many athletes with all different experiences, but something many don’t know is that we have a handful of powerhouse softball players.
Makenzie Calandres
One of those great players is Makenzie Calandres. She is only 13 years old, but has been playing since the age of 4. She’s a left handed utility player for “Texas Legacy” who are nationally ranked #30 in the nation. “Being left handed gives me a slight advantage because most pitchers aren’t used to throwing to lefties. The majority of players are right handed” explains Mackenzie. In fact, there are already multiple colleges from out of state looking at her for future spots. “I’ve spoken with representatives from Trinity University and Luna Community College in New Mexico” Mackenzie proudly states. She wears the number 21, which is a family tradition, worn by her mom, grandpa, and uncle. Kenzie has traveled as far as Tennessee for tournaments and her next plans are to travel to Vegas and Colorado.
Aubrey Garcia
Playing for the “Bombers Robles,” 7th grader Aubrey Garcia, has played softball for 5 years now. She’s a third baseman and loves it. In one season, Aubrey hit 5 in the park homeruns, which is an accomplishment to be proud of. “I’m number 20 because of Manu Ginobili from the spurs,” she said. “I would have joined basketball, but I wanted more of a contact sport without so much running.” To keep her going, Aubrey keeps this saying in her mind while playing, “Offense wins games, defense wins championships.” Aubrey plans to continue softball through high school, and she hopes to earn a college scholarship playing at the collegiate level one day.
Ayana Soto
8th grader Ayana Soto plays shortstop, 2nd base, and outfield for the “SA Venom.” Her love for softball came from, “Starting at a very young age,” and she has been playing since she was only 4 years old. Ayana spends most of the spring and summer dedicating her time to playing softball with tournaments all over Texas. Although she is on the Lady Jags’ volleyball and basketball teams, she plans on, “Continuing softball and basketball at Marshall High School.”
Jaylyn Gonzalez
Playing pitcher for the “Lady Astros,” 7th grader Jaylyn Gonzalez, has been playing softball for almost 8 years. As a young child, Jaylyn started off playing basketball. “I played basketball, but I got tired of it. I play softball because it’s the only sport I really love” states Jaylyn. She dedicates 15 hours a week to training and practicing, and that is when she doesn’t have games. Jaylyn plans to continue softball through high school playing for the Warren Warriors.
Softball teaches you how to win and lose. It helps you learn dedication, hard work, and determination. It gives you a sense of accomplishment, pride, community, and support. Softball builds character.