Katey Yates, an incoming sophomore at Texhoma/Goodwell High School, embodies a passion for sports. Balancing academics and athletics, Katey’s journey in softball started in a memorable way. “I have always had a desire to play sports, and one day my mom came into my room and said, ‘Get your shoes on, we are going to T-ball,’ and the rest is history.”
The inspiration behind her love for softball stems from her early admiration for older players and her cousin. “When we would walk by the softball fields, I would see the high school girls playing and always wanted to be able to play with them. My cousin Jordan was probably my biggest influence when it comes to softball. I loved watching her play.”
Katey’s role on the team goes beyond just playing the game. “In any sport I play, I always try to be the positive voice, and I try my best to lead by example. Being one of three returning starters, I’m definitely going to try and be someone that the younger and more inexperienced athletes can come to.”
Her goals for the 2024 season are focused on both performance and team dynamics. “One of my goals is to win as many games as possible, but my main goal is to build team chemistry.”
One of the most challenging moments in her softball career happened during a big game against Mangum. “We started on a field with turf and then had to move to another field, which had a dirt infield. I struggled adjusting back to the dirt infield. While in the dugout, our senior shortstop Abby and other seniors came to me and told me that there was no one better to play my position and just go out there and play. Their support meant a lot to me and helped me pull through and finish the game strong.”
Looking ahead, Katey aspires to play college basketball but remains committed to supporting Texhoma/Goodwell High School’s softball team. “As much as I enjoy softball, my goal is to play college basketball… I will definitely come back to watch the Red Devils play to support my little sister as she starts her high school softball career.”
Katey looks up to her head coach, J.C. Wells, as a role model. “Not only is he a great coach who knows how to push me to get the best performance out of me on the field, but he also pushed me in the classroom. He made math a little less horrible. He was always there when I needed someone to talk to.”
Katey expresses gratitude to her parents, teammates, and coaches for their support. “I want to thank my mom and dad for always being in my corner. I would like to thank the upperclassman for always giving me their support, especially Allie Mitchell, Jacque Berry, and Aspin Collins.”
