Seneca softball player Bailey Waddell recently completed an interview with Prep Sports.

PREP SPORTS: What are your personal goals for the year?

Have fun finishing out high school and start college off on a good note.

PREP SPORTS: What is your favorite athletic memory?

My favorite athletic memory is winning districts my Junior year! It truly was a moment I’ll never forget!

PREP SPORTS: What teammate has left the biggest impression on you and why?

There were two of my teammates that genuinely impacted me.  Railee Davis, our starting catcher, was injured at the beginning of the season. She continued to support, love, and encourage the team throughout each and every game. Gearing up for the team as catcher after Railee was injured, was Kenzie French.  Kenzie stepped into a role that she had never played before, and dedicated her senior year to learning and honing a new skill position that contributed to an amazing season. 

PREP SPORTS: What is your favorite part of being on this team?

My GIRLS! These girls became my second family. They reminded me why I have loved this game for so long. I never hesitated to know that they had my back on and off the field. From my teammates to the coaches, we supported and encouraged each other through it all. 

PREP SPORTS: Do you participate in any community service projects?

I participate in several community service projects as a member of the National Honor Society, as well as, dedicating time to a local nursing home.

PREP SPORTS: What Clubs or Campus groups are you involved with and why?

I am a second-year member of the National Honor society, as well as, a member of the Student Council for as many years. I am a member of the School Book Club and a manager for the Girl’s Basketball team. I am a  Crowder Student Ambassador and a member of Crowder College’s Technical National Honor Society. I am involved with these clubs and organizations because of my desire to help others and to develop the leadership skills that will help me succeed as I graduate high school and work toward my future goals. 

PREP SPORTS: What has your sport taught you that you use in your daily life?

Softball has taught me that no matter what, I have to continue to do my best, stay positive,  and support my teammates. Softball has taught me that life is a mental game. I have to remember that I can’t let something small affect my overall perspective and the goals that I have set for myself.

PREP SPORTS: Who inspires you and why?

My mom is truly the one who inspires me. Despite everything she’s been through, she has continued to provide an amazing life for me and my brother.  She has never let anything keep her from being at each and every game… even sitting through a hot, mid-summer tournament with a broken arm because going to the doctor would’ve meant missing the first pitch. She has played countless hours of catch and never complained about the bruised shins when i was learning to pitch. 

PREP SPORTS: Here is your chance to give a shoutout or say thank you to anyone you wish.

I want to shout out to all of my coaches through the years. Especially, Larry S., my very first coach from third grade Rec-League ball. Larry has continued to show his love and support by attending my games ten years later. Last, but certainly not least , is my family!  They have continued to show up to my games and support me whether we win or lose.