The pressure that comes with standing in the pitching circle has taught Caddo High School senior Harlee Taylor plenty about softball — and about herself.
As a pitcher, Taylor knows how quickly a game can begin to feel like it rests on her shoulders. Learning to handle those moments has been an important part of her growth.
“Pitching can be difficult because it’s very easy to get in your own head when you think the game is on your back,” Taylor said.
Taylor approaches the sport with a simple standard that reminds her the effort she gives matters.
“The game will treat you how you treat the game,” Taylor said.
At the plate, she tries to stay aggressive while sticking to her approach.
“Hop on the first one if it’s my pitch, don’t chase up, nothing close gets by with 2 strikes, and don’t get beat more than once,” Taylor said.
Softball has also taught Taylor that success is rarely about one person.
“Being in athletics has taught [me] to work as a team and not an individual, and work hard even when no one is looking,” Taylor said.
That team aspect has helped make her years at Caddo memorable.
“I love being on a team with people who motivate me and make these short years so memorable,” Taylor said. “I love my team because we find a way to have fun on and off the field, but when it’s time to be serious we can hold each other accountable.”
Taylor said Josi Herrington is the team’s most vocal player, Rylee Collier keeps everyone laughing and Braylee Malone usually finishes games with the dirtiest uniform.
Jaycie Nichols has made the biggest impression on Taylor because of the consistency she brings each day.
“Jaycie Nichols has left the biggest impression on me because you could never tell if she was practicing or playing a game because she always worked as hard as she could,” Taylor said.
Taylor finds another example of hard work at home.
“My biggest inspiration is my mom because she sets a great example of a hardworking woman and pushes me to be my best at all times,” Taylor said.
Away from softball, Taylor enjoys shopping and going to the movies, preferably with a large popcorn. Math is her favorite subject, and Ms. Weaver is her favorite teacher. She also participates in student council, helping organize activities and improve the school campus.
As her senior year continues, Taylor hopes to make the most of the time she has left with the teammates who have made softball memorable. The game has given her more than competition. It has shown her the importance of effort, accountability and doing her part for the people beside her.
