Maddie Latta is a junior at Episcopal School of Jacksonville, where she excels in academics and softball. Latta is so good at what she does that she has already committed to Yale University – one of the most famous ivy league schools in the country. I wanted to know more about this prestigious student-athlete, so I asked her a few questions about the upcoming season.
Tyrah: How excited are you to start the new softball season?
Maddie: I am super excited because I have really worked hard during the offseason to get better, faster, and stronger, and I want to see how that translates on the field! I also love playing with my friends from school. We return most of the team from last year, so we’ll continue to get better even though we are young. We also play a really tough schedule against large schools, which should prepare us for the postseason.
T: What are some things you learned last season that you hope to incorporate for this season?
M: I really learned a lot about which pitches to throw and when to throw them. I had a busy travel ball season over the summer and faced top-notch batters, so I feel that experience will also help me in the high school setting. Additionally, this will be the third year my catcher and I have been together, so we are in sync now.
T: How did you find the love for softball?
M: I played every sport known to man growing up, but at only 8 years old, I was most passionate about softball and wanted it to be my main focus. I enjoy the team aspect of softball, and most of my best friends have been my teammates. Also, when I first started pitching, it felt natural to me, and I knew this was what I wanted to do.
T: If you know the game schedule, what is the game that you’re most excited for?
M: I am excited for all of the games, but I am looking forward to playing Mandarin. They are a good team, and last year when we played, I had my worst outing. I would like to make up for that performance!
T: Who are some athletes that inspire you the most?
M: Cat Osterman, a collegiate, four-time All American and a two-time Olympian pitcher, is my favorite. I went to a pitching camp with her when I was younger, and she inspired me. She is one of the best pitchers of all time. I also like David Ortiz, Derrick Henry, Usain Bolt, and Michael Phelps. I admire greatness in any sport.
T: What made you decide to commit to Yale?
M: My whole school life I have always put academics first, so when softball became a fixture in my life, I knew that I wanted to find a place that offered a high level of both. I also fell in love with the campus and thought the coaches and players there were the best. Also, New Haven is known to have the best pizza in the country – that is a big plus!
T: How do you plan to leave your mark at your school next year?
M: I definitely want to be remembered for my softball accomplishments, but I also hope I am remembered for being a nice person, a good teammate, and a leader who works hard on and off the field.
T: How do you plan to start your legacy at Yale?
M: I want to continue to prioritize school and softball and do everything I can to come in and contribute right away as a freshman. As mentioned, I hope to be known as a great teammate and leader who loves to have fun and compete. I also want to win the Ivy League Championship during the four years that I am there!
Be on the lookout for Latta during softball season. We know she will continue to do great things!
Written by: Tyrah Walker
Photo courtesy of Head First Honor Roll Camp
