Ema makes an impact everywhere she goes. She’s a leader in sports, school, and her community—proving heart and hustle make the athlete.
Thank you for generously supporting Ema in this year’s competition. Your support helps empower the V Foundation for Cancer Research and the Why Not You Foundation in their respective missions to save lives and empower today's youth to become tomorrow's leaders.
Softball is more than just a game to Ema. It’s been her passion since she was 8 years old. It’s been a place where her strong mind and determined heart have been shaped. She’s had mentors along the way that have provided her a great foundation for the game as well as her life. Ema has taken those lessons and passed them on to younger players. It’s not been just a game to her. It has shaped her every step and continues to do so as she will continue on playing in college.
Coach Todd Stinson has been a great mentor to Ema. Coach Todd teaches Faith, Family, Future as he teaches hitting lessons. God first in everything. Coach Blackwell was the first pitching coach to see her true talents and stays in touch today. Coach Woosley assisted advancing her pitching and continues to mentor her even now. Lydia Gunn, current pitching coach helps build confidence weekly. Greg Maddux is her favorite athlete known for commanding the strike zone. She wears his #31.
Ema isn’t the biggest athlete physically. She stands at 5ft 3 inches weighing in at 118 lbs. She is often overlooked because she doesn’t fit the typical college athlete mold. A coach from Dartmouth once told her “don’t let them tell you that you are too small “. That definitely stayed with her as she has overcome to command the circle as a pitcher. I have watched her hit 3 back to back homeruns in a game. I’ve also watched her pitch 17 k’s in one game. She has grit and heart for sure.
Colossal is a nationally registered professional fundraiser that inspires people to advocate for themselves and those in need. Through online competitions like Youth Athlete of the Year, Colossal offers participants the opportunity to make their mark while also making a big impact.