Pioneer Pleasant Vale High School’s Khloe Cruz
Pioneer Pleasant Vale High School sophomore Khloe Cruz is already making her mark as a dedicated and team-focused varsity softball player, balancing growth on the field with strong influences off it.
Cruz, who will enter 10th grade this fall, said her biggest inspiration comes from her father.
“My dad inspires me the most because he always pushes me to be the best,” she said.
That mindset carries into both her academics and athletics. Cruz lists history as her favorite subject and credits teacher Tim Riesen as her favorite in the classroom.
On the softball field, Cruz plays catcher, a demanding position that requires both mental and physical toughness. She said one of the biggest challenges is handling the Oklahoma heat while wearing full gear.
“Being in the gear in the heat and blocking is somewhat difficult,” she said.
Despite the challenges, Cruz embraces her role and keeps her approach simple at the plate.
“My process is just to make contact,” she said.
Cruz values the life lessons that come with the sport, especially sportsmanship.
“The best unwritten rule in softball is that no matter if you win or lose, you still have to show sportsmanship by shaking hands after every game,” she said.
Team chemistry is another highlight of her experience. Cruz said she enjoys playing alongside her closest friends and appreciates the bond they share.
“What I love most about my team is that we’re so close,” she said.
She also pointed to teammate Ava as a key personality on the team.
“Ava is the most vocal and she always keeps everyone laughing,” Cruz said.
Cruz admires teammate Delaney for her perseverance through injuries, calling her an example of resilience.
Off the field, Cruz enjoys relaxing by sleeping or playing basketball with her sisters in their front yard. Around town, she favors the local bowling alley as her go-to spot.
Whether grinding through tough games or enjoying time with teammates, Cruz said her guiding principle is simple: never give up, even when it is hard.
