When you think of a rising star in high school softball, look no further than Ella LaBounty, a sophomore at Warner High School. Ella’s journey with softball began at an incredibly young age. “I grew up watching my parents play co-ed softball and developed a love for the game early on. I started playing at three years old on a T-ball team and have continued to play at a competitive level and grow my love for the game.” Her early exposure and dedication have shaped her into a formidable player on the field.
Inspired by her mother, who also played softball growing up, Ella found a role model in her biggest influence, Jordy Bahl. “My mom inspired me to play softball because she played growing up and I’ve always shared her love for the game. My biggest influence is Jordy Bahl; her presence and confidence in the circle are inspiring and push me to improve my mental and physical presence in the game.”
The Warner High School softball team boasts a close-knit group this season. “This season, we have a great group of girls and because most of our team is underclassmen, we are all very close. The majority of us have played together since the sixth grade and each year, we learn more about each other and how to compete as a team!” This bond translates into their performance, with Ella taking on the crucial role of pitcher. “I am the pitcher. I take that responsibility to heart and really just want to do my best for our team!”
One of her most memorable moments was hitting a walk-off grand slam to seal her team’s victory. “Hitting a walk-offgrand slam to advance to the championship game of the Eufaula tournament,” she said.
Ella’s vision for the future includes playing softball in college and furthering her education. “I see myself continuing my education and softball career in college.” She also acknowledges the vital role of community support. “Community support is really important for our team and its success. Whether they are cheering loudly in the stands or supporting our team financially through different fundraisers, we couldn’t do this without them!”
Ella LaBounty is not just a talented athlete but also a dedicated student, teammate and community member, poised to achieve great things in her softball career.
