Dale’s Holland Herring
Hitting a home run is the most exciting moment for a softball player. Holland Herring lives for that feeling while playing softball for Dale High School.
A seventh-inning, game-tying home run against Pocola in the 2025 slow pitch state championship game is her favorite game memory. Herring is privileged to be part of a team that has won three state championships, two for fast-pitch and one for slow pitch.
“Dale is known for having a great softball program. I feel blessed to wear the Pirates jersey and contribute to this team,” Herring said.
Playing softball has built trust in her teammates and confidence in herself. Now a junior, she has grown into her role as an upperclassman and is in a position to inspire young players. The advice she passes on is “do not get too worked up; just enjoy the sport.”
A big inspiration drawing her to softball is her dad.
“He played baseball in high school and college. I love to hear his baseball stories. I’m happy that I play softball and share that love of the game with him,” Herring said.
The teammate who has left the biggest impression on Herring is also a member of her family.
“My cousin Reese Herring and I have played ball together since we were about eight years old. So many great memories and games. She has always been there when I needed her,” she says.
Herring’s softball career started when she was six years old. While signing her little brother up for T-ball, she spoke up, exclaiming, “Hey, I want to play ball too!”
She has played softball ever since and is thankful to her parents for their support.
A fun memory not involving softball happened last summer on vacation in Nashville, Tennessee.
“While visiting Country Star Riley Green’s Duck Blind Restaurant, he just happened to be there. I got to meet him and take photos with him!” Herring exclaimed.
Her favorite teacher in school is Mrs. Payne for helping with math and being someone to talk to. English is her favorite subject.
After high school, Herring wants to play college softball and become an obstetrics sonographer.
