Hadlee Merriott is a multi-sport athlete at Pond Creek-Hunter High School. She has put in the time and effort to be her best and to stay focused on her goals.
“I’ve worked really hard with softball over the past few years,” she said. “Even when I’m tired, I get up to put in the work outside of team practice. It is paying off and I will continue to put more work in. My biggest motivations are my family and friends, but mostly by God.”
A freshman, Hadlee plays fastpitch and slowpitch softball and is also a cheerleader for the Panthers. She also plays travel softball outside of school. Away from sports, she is also involved in Family, Career and Community Leaders of America.
Throughout her career, Merriott has made a lot of memories with her teammates. She says that her favorite moment would not have happened if it was not for them.
“The highlight of my career would have to be making All-Conference,” she recalled. “It was a great honor but it would not have been possible without all of my teammates.”
Along with excelling in athletics, Hadlee works just as hard in the classroom. And while it may not always be easy, she knows that it is important to do the work in order to keep her grades up.
“It takes a lot of dedication,” she said. “Prioritizing being a student over an athlete is important. I always get my work done no matter what so if it’s doing it before the game or after when I get home, it always gets done.”
Merriott has learned from a number of different teachers during her education. But she has one that stands out as her favorite.
“Mrs. Riddle is my English teacher,” she said. “She is one of the best teachers I’ve ever had and she’s constantly pushing us to be better no matter what. She is a very good teacher and very understanding.”
