There is a lot that goes into an athlete reaching their full potential. Hard work is a key to that but there are many other things that are also just as vital. Ruby Nichols is an outstanding softball player and she knows what it takes to be her best.

“Softball is mainly a mental game,” she said. “I constantly try to practice having a good attitude and staying out of my head because I know that it can affect my team. Commitment and confidence are important to being successful at whatever you do. I have sat out or played through pain quite a bit so just working on the little things while I can is very important to me.”

Nichols is a junior at Alva High School and she plays shortstop, pitcher, and outfield for the Goldbugs softball team. She is also a member of Alva’s Key Club, Health Occupations Students of America, the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, and the Book Club.

Throughout her life, there have been people that have made an impact on Ruby’s life and helped her become who she is today.

“One of my biggest role models is my travel coach, Savanna King,” she said. “She is always encouraging, and pushes me to be my best. Another would have to be one of my teachers, Brenna Koppitz. I haven’t had her as a teacher for very long but everyday she teaches with passion and I feel like she is there for us to learn and not just because that’s her job. She makes me excited to learn new things and inspires me to be passionate too.”

Nichols has had some memorable moments on the softball field. She says that some of her favorites she has shared with her sister.
 “I’ve had a few highlight moments this season,” she said. “I’ve had a triple play and many double plays, several of them included my sister who plays first base.”

Even though she puts in the hard work, Ruby knows that there can still be tough days. She says that she keeps herself focused on what lies ahead.

“My biggest motivation is my future,” she said. “I strive to be successful so the thought of my future motivates me to work hard.”