SAMANTHA REYES #6

My name is Samantha Reyes Cruz and I’m 2011 class of 2029. I have been playing this sport since I was five years old back in 2016. When I think of softball I reflect on so many valuable lessons this sport has taught me in the past 9 years of my life. Including the true meaning of being a teammate, a leader/captain, managing my time, discipline, resilience, strength and mental strength as well. I’m still improving on these qualities along the way, but it has definitely shape me into the athlete I am today. Not just as an athlete but as a person. I’ve learned to disguise my emotions and stay under control when things aren’t going my way. I always think about how if one head is down, the whole team’s head is down. One of my favorite things about this sport is the way it’s all year round. Spending time with my teammates on and off the field is something I always cherish. So, not only has softball taught me many lessons, but it has given me the best group of best friends along the way. We each strive to push one another to the best possible version of ourselves at the moment. Though, no matter how much I love this sport, school comes first. I like to consider myself Student-Athlete, not Athlete-Student. It only motivates me more. In ways were in the classroom I push myself to be on top of my work and have good grades. As well as achieving my short-term goals. It only reflects back out on the field. On that diamond I push myself and always give my 100%. Even if I don’t have 100% in the tank, I give the 100% of whatever I have left t. As of now I am on Redemption Valley 16u. I love the environment this team is surrounded by. I’m the youngest on my team, but my leadership skills have given me the opportunity to be a captain. I am currently 1 out of the three captains on my team, which is a role I don’t take lightly. So Softball to me is way more than just a game. It’s a place I will continue to grow and lead in with heart everytime I step onto that field.