We Speak Softball
Chasing Every Fly Ball and Every Dream: The Journey of Hailey Okuma, a Multi-Position Player Who Found Purpose in Softball
In the world of fastpitch softball, where discipline, skill, and determination separate good players from great ones, few stories shine brighter than that of Hailey Okuma, a talented young athlete who has carved out her place in the game with remarkable dedication and passion. Currently competing for Power Surge Premier Roldan 16U, Hailey has built her reputation as a versatile player who thrives in multiple positions but truly finds her identity and joy in the outfield, where she reads the ball off the bat with instinct and confidence. What makes her journey especially unique is the way she transitioned from a background in competitive figure skating to discovering her true calling in softball, never looking back once the spark was lit. Fueled by countless hours of training, backyard reps with her dad, and the unwavering encouragement of her family and teammates, Hailey represents not only the future of the sport but also the values of perseverance, faith, and teamwork that extend far beyond the field. Her story is one of transformation, resilience, and heart, capturing the essence of what it means to chase dreams at the highest level of competition.
How did you first get started playing?
I actually started out as a competitive figure skater. One day in January 2020, a family friend’s mom was babysitting me and brought me along to one of their softball practices. I loved it so much that I decided to take a few months off from skating to give softball a try, and I never looked back.
What position do you play, and what do you love most about it?
I’ve played a lot of different positions over the years, catcher, shortstop, third base, and second, but the outfield has always been my favorite. I love reading the ball off the bat, covering ground, and making those big plays to help my team. I’m really grateful I’ve had the chance to try so many different positions, but the outfield just feels like home to me.
Who introduced you to the sport or inspired your passion for the game?
My passion for the game really started with my family. They’ve always supported me in trying new things and encouraged me to chase what I love. Once I found softball, they were the ones cheering me on at every practice and game, and that kept me motivated to get better.
What’s been your most memorable moment on the field so far?
My most memorable moment so far has to be this August when my team won the 2025 PGF National Championship. It was such an amazing experience to compete at that level and come out on top with my teammates. All the hard work, long practices, and tough games really paid off, and I’ll never forget the feeling of that final out and celebrating together on the field.
How has your game evolved since you first started playing?
When I first started, I was a right-handed hitter, but in August 2023 I made the switch to being a lefty slapper. It was definitely challenging at first, but it’s helped me grow so much as a player. I’ve learned to be more disciplined at the plate, quicker out of the box, and more versatile for my team. I’ve also become more confident and strategic in the outfield, reading the ball off the bat, covering more ground, and making plays under pressure. Looking back, I can see how much more well-rounded and confident I’ve become compared to when I first started.
What does a typical training week look like for you during the season?
A typical training week during the season is pretty busy but really fun.
- Monday: Outfield Clinic with ST2 from 7–9:30 PM, where we get tons of reps and lots of positive feedback, which really helps me improve my reads and reactions.
- Tuesday: Strength and agility training.
- Wednesday: Team practice from 7–9 PM.
- Thursday: Hitting lesson to work on my swing mechanics and consistency.
- Saturday: Team practice from 9 AM–1 PM.
Every day, I also hit off the tee, do live pitching with my dad in our backyard, and work on my glove skills. It’s a lot of work, but I love it. Every rep helps me get better and keeps me ready for games.
How do you mentally prepare for games? Any pregame rituals or routines?
Before every game, my team and I always take a moment to pray. It helps me focus, stay calm, and remember to play with heart. I also like to do a few stretches and take some deep breaths to get in the right mindset. Sometimes I visualize making plays on the field or hitting well at the plate. It helps me feel ready and confident before the game starts.
What’s one skill you’ve worked hardest to improve?
One skill I’ve worked hardest to improve is hitting, especially since I made the switch to being a left-handed slapper in August 2023. It was definitely challenging at first, but I’ve put in a lot of reps on the tee and live pitching in our backyard. Working so hard to make the switch has not only made me more confident and consistent at the plate, but it’s also helped me grow as a player, learning patience, discipline, and how to adapt to new challenges.
How do you handle slumps or rough stretches during the season?
When I go through slumps or rough stretches during the season, I just keep working and focus on how to improve. I remind myself that everyone has ups and downs, so I stay positive and put in extra reps. Hitting off the tee, doing live pitching, and working on my fielding in our backyard really helps. That mindset, along with practicing consistently, helps me bounce back and keep getting better.
Do you play or train year-round, or take time off in the offseason?
I play and train pretty much year-round. Even in the offseason, I work on my skills with hitting off the tee and live pitching in our backyard, and I focus on strength and agility to stay in shape.
What do you value most about being part of your team?
What I value most about being part of my team is how we hype each other up. No matter what’s happening on the field, we’re always encouraging one another, celebrating successes, and lifting each other through tough moments. It makes playing together so fun and keeps everyone motivated to do their best.
How do you balance individual performance with team goals?
I try to focus on doing my best individually, but always with the team’s goals in mind. I know that every play I make or at-bat I take can help the team succeed, so I stay aware of how I can contribute. Whether it’s backing up a teammate in the outfield or cheering someone on at the plate, I make sure my individual efforts support the team as a whole.
Who’s a teammate that inspires or pushes you to be better?
My best friend Macie inspires me and pushes me to be better. She’s an amazing softball player, a great catcher and hitter. We started out playing rec ball together, and I was so excited that in my last season I got to play travel ball with her. I’m also excited that we’ll get to play high school softball together. We won’t be on the same travel team this upcoming season, but she always has my back, is honest with me, and I know she’ll be cheering me on, along with her family, who have also been so supportive. Knowing she’s rooting for me makes me want to bring my best every time.
How do you respond to pressure in high-stakes moments?
When I’m in high-stakes moments, I try to stay calm and focus on what I can control. I remind myself to trust my training and my teammates, and I take it one play at a time. I focus on staying positive, giving my best effort, and helping my team succeed.
What has the sport taught you about life beyond the field?
Softball has taught me that if you want something, you have to work hard for it. It’s also taught me that there’s always someone else out there putting in work too, so you can never take anything for granted. Beyond skills, the sport has helped me learn how to be a good friend and teammate, supporting others, encouraging them, and celebrating successes together. It’s taught me discipline, perseverance, and a strong work ethic, lessons that go far beyond the field.
How do you stay motivated when things get tough?
When things get tough, I stay motivated by focusing on my goals and remembering why I love the game. I remind myself that hard work pays off and that challenges are opportunities to get better. I also lean on my teammates, my family, and the people who support me. Their encouragement keeps me going and pushes me to keep giving my best.
Who is a role model or professional athlete you look up to and why?
I really look up to Ashton Maloney. She plays for my dream school and is an amazing outfielder. Watching her dedication, hustle, and passion for the game inspires me to push myself to improve every day and to approach the game with the same focus and determination.
What are your goals moving forward in your athletic career?
My goals moving forward are to continue improving every part of my game, from hitting and fielding to speed and agility. I want to help my teams succeed at every level I play and make the most of every opportunity. Long-term, I hope to play at the collegiate level, following my dream of playing for a school like Ashton Maloney’s. Beyond that, I want to keep growing as a teammate, leader, and player who inspires others to work hard and love the game as much as I do.
If you could give advice to a younger player just starting out, what would it be?
My advice to a younger player just starting out would be to have fun and never give up. Work hard, listen to your coaches, and always try to learn from every practice and game. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes, that’s how you grow. Also, be a good teammate, support others, and enjoy the friendships you make along the way.
Whether you’re a coach, athlete, parent, or sports fan, I’d love to hear from you. Have a story idea? Want to collaborate on coverage? Looking to feature your team or athlete? Use the form below to get in touch.
We Speak Softball
Leadership That Inspires, a Game That Reflects Her Heart, Thaliamia Richards Competes with Purpose
Thaliamia Richards is a dynamic shortstop for San Diego Marnin 16U, known for her leadership on the field and passion for softball. Introduced to the game by her father, who played competitive baseball, Thaliamia has embraced every challenge the sport has brought her way. From the excitement of her first home run to the lessons learned through hard work, discipline, and teamwork, she continues to grow as both a player and a person. With a relentless drive to improve and a deep love for the game, Thaliamia brings energy, heart, and purpose every time she steps on the field.
How did you first get started playing?
I played T-ball when I was 4, and I played for Spring Valley Little League.
What position do you play, and what do you love most about it?
I play shortstop. The thing I love most about shortstop is the leadership role and excitement that comes with it. To play shortstop, you need to be very athletic, and I’m honored that I fill that role.
Who introduced you to the sport or inspired your passion for the game?
My dad introduced me to softball since he had grown up playing baseball at pretty competitive levels.
What’s been your most memorable moment on the field so far?
My most memorable moment on the field so far was my first home run. I hit it on my 12th birthday hours before my party.
How has your game evolved since you first started playing?
The game has evolved by the speed of which the game goes. Now that I’m getting older and playing at higher levels, the game goes a lot faster.
What does a typical training week look like for you during the season?
Mondays I do agility and light conditioning at home. Tuesdays, AM twenty minutes hitting off the tee. Then at night, I have fielding practice with my team. Wednesday, I have flag football conditioning in the morning and hitting lessons with my coach at night. Thursday’s team conditioning, weightlifting, and hitting in our facility. Fridays, I do fielding drills with my dad.
How do you mentally prepare for games? Any pregame rituals or routines?
On the way to every game, I listen to music to “lock in” and visualize what I want to do once the game starts. Before the game starts, I take a moment to myself and pray.
What’s one skill you’ve worked hardest to improve?
My drag bunting is the skill I’ve worked hardest on to improve.
How do you handle slumps or rough stretches during the season?
When I hit a slump, I focus on what I can control—my effort, mindset, and trusting the work I’ve put in. I remind myself it’s just a phase and not who I am as a player.
Do you play or train year-round, or take time off in the offseason?
I play year-round while also playing flag football in the fall.
What do you value most about being part of your team?
What I value most about being part of my team is pushing through challenges together. Learning from each other, and growing not just as players, but as people, even when it’s not always perfect.
How do you balance individual performance with team goals?
I balance my individual performance with team goals by playing my role and doing whatever it takes to help us win. Whether it’s getting a hit, laying down a bunt, or cheering from the dugout. Softball is a team sport, and we’re stronger when we all buy in.
Who’s a teammate that inspires or pushes you to be better?
The teammate that pushes me the most is me. I hold myself to a high standard, stay hungry, and push through the tough days because I know who I want to become, and I’m not stopping until I get there.
How do you respond to pressure in high-stakes moments?
I slow the game down and just have fun with whatever I’m doing.
What has the sport taught you about life beyond the field?
The lessons in softball go beyond the field by teaching me how to stay focused, work hard, and bounce back from setbacks. This sport includes skills that help me face challenges in everyday life with confidence and strength.
How do you stay motivated when things get tough?
I stay motivated when things get tough by remembering why I love softball—the rush of the game, the goals I’m chasing, and the player I’m becoming. I use every challenge as fuel to work harder and prove to myself I can overcome anything.
Who is a role model or professional athlete you look up to and why?
I look up to Sis Bates because she plays with so much passion, grit, and heart. Her work ethic and how she leads on and off the field inspire me to push harder and be the best player I can be.
What are your goals moving forward in your athletic career?
My goal moving forward is to play Division 1 (Power 5) softball. I want to compete at the highest level, keep improving every day, and prove I belong with the best. I’m ready to work harder than ever to make that dream a reality.
If you could give advice to a younger player just starting out, what would it be?
If I could give advice to a younger softball player, I’d say work hard and give it your all, but don’t forget to have fun. Love the game, enjoy every moment, and remember softball doesn’t define who you are. Your passion and effort matter, but you’re so much more than the sport.
Whether you’re a coach, athlete, parent, or sports fan, I’d love to hear from you. Have a story idea? Want to collaborate on coverage? Looking to feature your team or athlete? Use the form below to get in touch.
