Growth has been at the heart of Peyton Esau’s sophomore season with Oklahoma Bible Academy, both on and off the field. “This softball season, my main goal is to push myself to grow, not just as a player on the field, but more importantly, as a believer in Christ,” Esau said. “I want to reflect His love and grace in how I play and interact with my teammates and opponents.”
That mindset fits seamlessly into the culture surrounding OBA softball. “I think our team’s morale is something special,” Esau said. “We’re always having a good time and laughing, but we still perform at our best. OBA softball has been such a blessing in my life, and the atmosphere is truly amazing.” Through challenges, the bond within the team has only strengthened. “We went through some hardships this year, but this team is full of girls who love and uplift each other at all times,” she said. “Everyone gets along so well, and the atmosphere on the field and in the dugout is amazing.”
Confidence continues to build as the Lady Trojans set their sights high. “This year, I truly believe is our year,” Esau said. “We’ve got an amazing group of girls, and our team goal is set high, making it to the state tournament, which we all believe is totally within reach.” Experience plays a major role in that belief. “Our team’s biggest strength this season is definitely our experience,” she said, pointing to years of travel ball as a key factor.
Esau plays first base and prides herself on situational awareness. “When reading a defense, I look for gaps and their position in the field,” she said. “If I see a big gap, especially in the outfield, I will try my hardest to place the ball where the defense isn’t.”
Once she steps between the lines, her purpose is clear. “My mindset is all about giving everything I have and leaving it all out there,” she said. “I also focus on playing for the Lord and my teammates.” Looking ahead, Esau hopes her impact lasts beyond statistics. “I want to be remembered as an even better person and leader,” she said.
One moment already stands out. “My favorite memory in an OBA softball uniform was definitely hitting my first home run against Pond Creek,” Esau said.
Peyton Esau competes in fast-pitch and slow-pitch softball, basketball, and track. She holds a .387 batting average, .985 fielding percentage, 1.030 OPS, and .555 slugging percentage. After high school, she plans to play college softball while pursuing a degree in interior design or becoming an esthetician.
