In the split seconds of competition, championship level athletes rarely hesitate. They understand the importance of being ready to take chances that often result in game changing moments.  And so it is for Chanci Alford, a junior at Tushka High School whose first name truly defines her confidence and leadership abilities.

“It’s the reason why I work so hard, to be the best I can in anything I do,” said Chanci, a key performer on the softball diamond for the Tushka Lady Tigers. “When you play softball at Tushka, you have to be ready, always bring your best.”

It’s the readiness level that makes Chanci a key performer on the softball field according to her coach.

“When she steps across the lines, it’s game on. At the plate, she rarely misses her chance to put the barrel of the bat on the ball,” said Tushka coach Logan Brown. “She always does the little things right and consistently looks for any opportunity to help her team.”

Always willing to help is a personal trait that Chanci credits to the influence of family.

“My mom and dad always give their all, to family, friends or anyone in need of help. They (Traci and Greg) have pushed me to not make excuses and to always do my very best.”

Following in the footsteps of Jesus Christ is also a path that Chanci seeks to follow.

“One of my daily goals is to help others dreams come true. That’s why I want to live my life like Jesus and influence others to know how they can find true happiness in life.”

During the offseason, the talented third baseman and pitcher uses the opportunity to play basketball to maintain top-notch conditioning while she enjoys the not-so-much highly nutritious chicken strips and french fries as her favorite food.

Noting that her favorite classroom subject is Algebra II while maintaining a 3.7 GPA, Chanci knows how and why she plans to one day become a school teacher.

“Fact is, I love kids and maybe the fact that my grandmother was a math teacher is what makes it so much fun and easy for me.”

When that day comes, students may need to know that Chanci Alford will be ready to take a chance to continue to make a difference in the lives of everyone she meets.