Arianna

What do they love most about playing their sport(s)?

I started playing sports because I had a hard time making friends, but I started loving sports when I found out that I could overcome challenges. It taught me more about myself than I ever knew before. It’s given me confidence on and off the field, while also teaching me that I’m resilient even when times get tough. That’s what I love the most about sports, you can express yourself, your personality, emotions, and heart.

Who inspires them—on or off the field—and why?

I think my dad inspires me the most on and off the field because he is the most hard working person I know. I aspire to be as hardworking, and determined as him everyday, and to eventually retire him. My dad is our only support system in my family, working everyday to support our family of five. When he was younger he didn’t get many opportunities and with the job he ended up at he most likely won’t be able to retire himself, but he still goes to work everyday for us. This inspires me.

What’s one moment in their athletic journey that makes you proudest?

One moment in my athletic journey that makes me the proudest is being rejected from many colleges during softball recruiting, such as Stanford, yet still staying determined enough to believe in myself and find another home for me. I was recruited to play at UC Riverside which is where I will be for the next five years now. My dream school was Stanford, so after being heartbroken from my rejection, I’m proud of myself for continuing to work and have faith in the process.