McLoud’s Macen Fixico
As a freshman catcher for the McLoud High School varsity softball team, Macen Fixico is already embracing the responsibility of being the voice of the defense. She sees her role behind the plate as the heartbeat of the team, directing traffic and setting the tone with her energy and communication.
“My main position is catcher; I control the whole entire field with my voice and actions,” Fixico said. “My most difficult thing for this year as a freshman has been stepping up and becoming a leader for my teammates and coaches on the field.”
Fixico credits her rapid growth in the game to the support system around her, from private coaches to the McLoud staff. She said her catching coach, Billy Easley, has helped elevate her understanding of the position, while McLoud coach Garrett Hannah has pushed her to find confidence as a vocal leader. “My knowledge about the game has improved greatly over this past season with help with my catching coach, Billy Easley,” Fixico said. “My high school coach, Garrett Hannah, has helped find my voice on the field.”
That voice echoes most on a team Fixico says thrives on resilience and chemistry. She loves how the Lady Redskins respond to adversity and lean on one another in tough moments. “I love how my team can regroup ourselves after a tough loss and come back stronger,” she said. “My teammates are so supportive, and I love how we hype each other up.”
Fixico’s competitive drive was shaped long before she suited up for McLoud. She points to her two older brothers, who have combined for five state championships, as major inspirations in both work ethic and ambition. “My oldest brother has inspired me through his collegiate journey and my other brother who will be playing college baseball next year,” she said. “They both push me even when I don’t want to be pushed. The three of us are so competitive.” Her father, who introduced her to the sport, remains another central figure, and she proudly wears his No. 9 alongside her brothers.
One of her favorite memories came this past summer, when she launched her first home run over center field with best friend Kayleigh Smith waiting at second base. Off the field, she cherishes longtime friendships, including with teammate Kasye Higdon, whom she describes as “the most hilarious and outspoken person” she has played with.
Fixico balances athletics with academics and heritage. She is a member of the National Honor Society and takes pride in being part of the Creek Nation, which she says has supported her along the way. Her favorite teacher is her mother, Kristi Fixico, a fifth grade math teacher at McLoud, though history remains her favorite subject.
In her free time, Fixico enjoys talking to God, working with her travel ball team Gametime, taking hitting and catching lessons with Easley, and being around family and friends. She said sports have already given her perspective that reaches beyond the diamond. “Athletics has taught that not everything will go your way sometimes, but we learn from our mistakes and move on to get better,” Fixico said.
