Hannah Lake’s journey through softball is deeply intertwined with her family, her faith and a sense of community that fuels her passion both on and off the field. Growing up with two older sisters who also played softball, Hannah’s early experiences were shaped by competition and watching them play. “Naturally, I was always at the fields watching them and learning how to play. It’s always been a competition between me and my sisters, so I wanted to be even better than they were.” A senior at Piedmont High School, Hannah plays outfield—a position she hadn’t imagined herself playing before stepping onto the field as a freshman. Thanks to the guidance and dedication of her coaches, she’s grown into a skilled player. “Before high school, I had never really played outfield. But ever since I stepped onto Piedmont’s field as a freshman, my coaches have worked me to get me where I am today.”
This season feels special to Hannah, particularly because of the bond the team has developed. A trip to Nebraska in early September brought the group closer, and it’s something she treasures. “Even though there’s always hiccups here and there with any team, this group of girls is one of the most encouraging, silly, thoughtful, and loving teams I’ve ever been on.” When it comes to challenges, Hannah reflects on the early days of her career, when waiting for her chance to get playing time tested her patience. “It was hard to be patient and keep working even though I rarely got an at-bat or playing time in the outfield. But it made me a better player because I never stopped working and putting in the effort to improve my skills.” As her senior year progresses, Hannah has made it a goal to be a light to her teammates, leaving an impact just as those before her did. “I want to continue to lead and leave an impact on my team just how those before me did for me.” While she plans to attend Oklahoma Baptist University and major in elementary education, she hopes to stay connected to softball, perhaps through coaching or playing in an intramural league. Reflecting on her softball journey, Hannah is most proud of the connections she’s made with her teammates, especially the underclassmen. “I made it a challenge to myself to connect with every single one of them, and I think I accomplished that goal.”