ADDIE DAVIS – TAHLEQUAH
Around the softball park since birth, it’s no surprise that Tahlequah sophomore Addie Davis is a true student of the game and through her hard work has developed the necessary skills to become a highly recruited softball player who feels “at home” behind home plate.
“I’ve literally lived most of my life at the softball field. My dad (Clay) was a college coach and I always wanted to go to the games or to practice. I’ve played since I was three,” said the now 15-year old catcher at Tahlequah High School.
What are the skills required to be the best at her position, Addie was quick to reply with a smile and look of confidence.
“You have to keep your body in front of the ball, build a wall. That means you can’t be scared of the ball and then do whatever it takes to make a play.”
Another trait that Addie takes to heart is her relationship with teammates.
“As a catcher, you need to be a leader, on and off the field, know when to be vocal and ready to take charge,” she said with a look of conviction. “That means your relationship with teammates is number one. Trust each other, believe in and support each other.”
Working on her quickness and accuracy of throws is another part of Addie’s continual development that requires commitment.
“Drills to move the ball from her glove-to-hand-to-ear and then throw are a must for every catcher. My time is OK around 1.8 seconds but the really good players like Kinzie Hansen can stop the watch at 1.5 or faster.”
Addie’s reference to Hansen, the 4-time national champion O-U All-American and Florida’s Keegan Rothrock is another example of Addie’s “all-in” commitment to the game.
“In season, it’s the only thing that’s on my TV.”
In addition to her defensive talents, Addie looks forward to stepping to the plate with a chance to be a game changer.
“Being a catcher gives me an advantage to the situation and know the tendencies of the opposing pitcher,” she said. “Most hitters want the inside pitch but I’m always looking for something on the outside edge to drive.”
This spring, Davis hopes to lead Tahlequah to the OSSAA slowpitch state tournament making the most of her bat where she led the Tigers in most offensive categories with a .580 on-base percentage and .547 batting average last spring.
The total package has already earned Addie a ticket to the next level having committed to the softball scholarship offer from the University of Arkansas-Monticello.
Those who know her best realize there’s more than just talent and game I-Q that makes Addie Davis standout in a crowd.
“You’re not going to find anyone that will out work Addie, on the field or off. She leads by example and always gives 110 percent,” said Tahlequah coach Chris Ray. “She loves to celebrate her teammates success and her infectious personality inspires others to follow her lead.”
In the classroom, where math is her favorite subject, Addie maintains a 4.0 grade point average. Altogether, the skills and game results speak for themselves but what three words best answer the question, who is Addie Davis?
“Loyal, grateful and above all passionate best defines the real me,” Addie said with a voice of desire. “Just love what you do…whether that’s in the classroom, learning or playing the game and then enjoy everyone around it. I’m not shy, so if you need to talk to someone, I’m always here to listen.”
The self definition is proof again that Addie Davis lets her actions speak just as loud as words and someone whose heart beats strong whenever she can help others enjoy victory.
