Casey Woods, a talented softball player at McAlester High School, has been immersed in the sport since a young age. “I started playing softball when I was around five years old. I was invited to pick up on one of my friend’s t-ball teams. Now I’m 16 and I still do travel ball,” she said.

One of the most significant influences on her softball journey has been Coach Jones. “My biggest influence would be the coach I had from second grade to my freshman year, Coach Jones. She was a big part of my softball career. She really helped me understand the game and start to develop a love for it.”

This season, the McAlester High School softball team boasts strong team chemistry. “I would say my team has a great chemistry. The girls this year have been playing together for years and we have really grown a sisterly bond.”

As a senior, Casey embraces a leadership role. “I just try to maintain a role of being a bigger sister to the younger girls. I try to make sure that these new girls that come in knowing that softball can be a place that you can always look forward to… I try to make them feel at home,” she said.

One of her biggest challenges was transitioning to high school softball. “The sudden shift from middle school to playing against 18-year-olds was a big challenge that was very hard to overcome as a young 13-year-old freshman,” she said.

Looking ahead, Casey envisions herself playing college ball and eventually returning to McAlester. “I see myself playing college ball and eventually graduating. I would love to come back to McAlester after I’ve gotten my degree.”

Casey is grateful for her parents’ endless support. “They’ve driven me to every practice and every tournament I’ve ever had. Whenever I have a home game, I can always count on them to be there.”

Casey Woods appreciates McAlester’s support for their sports teams. “I love how much this town cares about the sports here. It’s a very nice feeling to know the town is right behind us.”