Success at shortstop requires quick reactions, confidence and the ability to move on from a mistake. Kingston High School senior Dextry Bowerman has learned that the mental side of the game can be just as important as the physical one.
Bowerman draws inspiration from her cousin, Bradi Harmon, who plays softball at the University of North Texas.
“She is my cousin and plays softball at the University of North Texas. I love the way she plays with lots of heart and loves the game,” Bowerman said. “She has always been a role model for me. She has so much grit and want to. I aspire to be like her playing this game.”
Bowerman tries to bring that same determination to her own game. At the plate, she focuses on being disciplined and waiting for the pitch she wants, describing her approach as “focusing on one spot and getting that pitch; don’t miss my pitch until I get two strikes.”
Playing shortstop brings its own challenges. Bowerman said the toughest part is “not letting myself get down,” especially when things do not go as planned. That ability to reset ties into one of the most important lessons she has taken from athletics: the value of a strong work ethic.
Her favorite unwritten rule of softball is one players and fans know well: “don’t mention a no-hitter.”
Beyond competition, Bowerman values the relationships she has built with her Kingston teammates.
“We have so much fun. We have a really great team chemistry,” Bowerman said. “We lift each other up.”
Gracie Bridgman is the teammate Bowerman said can always make everyone laugh, while Kate Ratzlaff usually earns the distinction of having the dirtiest uniform after a game.
Bowerman stays busy away from the high school softball field with travel softball, basketball, hunting and fishing. She has also completed nearly 70 hours of community service. In the classroom, math is her favorite subject, and Coach Bryen is her favorite teacher.
Her connection to Kingston extends beyond school and athletics. Paradise Donuts is one of her favorite hometown spots because it gives students a place to gather after home football games.
“They host a get together for High School students after home football games and we can all go dance and just sit around eat donuts and have a fun and safe environment,” Bowerman said.
As Bowerman finishes her senior year, the work ethic, resilience and relationships developed through softball continue to shape her experience at Kingston.
