McLoud’s Avery Soward
By Ivy Knapp
McLoud Junior Avery Soward brings dedication, passion, and faith to everything she does both in the classroom and on the softball field. As a student-athlete, Avery believes representing McLoud means more than just playing a sport.
“Being a student athlete at McLoud means working hard in both the classroom and on the field. It’s about learning discipline, leadership and working together as a team,” she said.
This season, Avery will continue her role as slow pitch pitcher. It challenged her last year, but she’s ready for another season. Last season was her first time pitching slow-pitch, and she has grown to enjoy it.
“I enjoy pitching, but if I’m not pitching, I love playing first base,” she shared. Her versatility gives the team confidence and flexibility during games.
Avery has played softball for most her life and knew she’d love slow pitch too. “I’ve played softball since I was 6, so it was never a question for me,” she said. Her love for the game has only grown stronger over time.
What she enjoys most about slow-pitch softball is the excitement and momentum shifts. “No matter what the score is, one good inning can change everything,” she explained.
At the plate, Avery focuses on patience. While the slower pitching style doesn’t drastically change her mechanics, she knows discipline is key.
“I do have to remember to be more patient at the plate,” she said. That discipline carries over into close games, where teamwork becomes essential. She shared it never works if we try to play as individuals and not as a team.
Practicing with purpose has helped her improve this season, especially the pitching and hitting drills set up by Coach Hannah. While some athletes have a least favorite field, Avery says she hasn’t encountered one yet, staying positive wherever she plays.
Academically, Avery has big goals. She plans to succeed at both McLoud High School and Gordon Cooper and was recently accepted into the Cosmetology program. “I’m excited to learn and grow in my future career,” she said. Her favorite teachers, Mr. Jaggars and Ms. Ogle, have pushed her to be her best and never give up.
Avery’s main softball goal this season is powerful. She wants to win state! She encourages younger athletes to work hard, stay disciplined, know how to work as a team, and always give it all to God. After graduation, Avery is keeping her future in God’s hands, hoping to play college softball while also building her business as a hairstylist.
