Athlete Spotlight: Addison Siebenaler #6

SPORTS: Softball

Tell us your story. What life experiences have impacted your journey? What motivates you? What is your “why"?

I’m from a small town in Minnesota. We moved to the beautiful state of Florida when I was in 5th grade. That really helped me to be able to play softball outside year round. My family and God is what motivates me to be the best person and player I can be. With any struggles in life my parents, my brother and sister and God have always been by my side. They are my why. I work hard every day, in whatever I do to glorify Him. 

What role does your faith play in your life and in your sports career?

Knowing softball and sports do not define who I am. What defines me is being a child of God and that is what gets me through and ups and downs of softball.

Do you have a favorite Bible verse? If so, which one and why?

2nd Chronicles 15.7

“But as for you, be strong and do not give up. For your work will be rewarded”

I’ve worked so hard up to this point in my softball career. There have been many times of failure that I thought of giving up but I keep fighting and fighting. Because of all the ups and downs of my softball career the final reward will be that much more glorious. The hard work and perseverance will not only help me reach my potential as a player but also make me the best person I can be going into my adult life. 

What accomplishment are you most proud of personally and athletically (name one of each)?

Personally it would have to be how much I have strengthened my faith and become a strong follower of Christ over the last few years.

Athletically, there have been many but one in particular comes to mind right away and that is when I made an all out diving catch to win the game against our rivals as a sophomore. If it would have dropped for a hit two runs would have scored and we would have lost.

What do you feel sets you apart from your competition and what skills do you currently possess that are your biggest assets?

Most definitely playing outfield. Defense is what I love best and is why I started playing the sport. I made a name for myself early on by making insane diving catches. I’ve had many fans and coaches tell me after a game that that was best catch that they’ve ever seen. I take a lot of pride in that. I love it. My speed, range and reaction time help me be one of the best outfielders in the state (I believe).

What skills are you most focused on improving?

Hitting will always be my number one skill to improve on. I work on it almost daily. Along with hitting, my mental approach to hitting and adjusting to pitchers tendencies, is just as important to improving. The mental side for any athlete is so important in the way you play. Other skills of softball have come a lot easier to me but hitting and mental approach will always be the things I work on most.

Tell us what a typical day or week is like for you:

Most days are the same especially during softball season. I get up at 6:00am to go to the gym before school. Practice a couple hours after school and either homework in the evening or work (job). I work a few times a week at an Italian restaurant. I also babysit neighbor kids on occasion. Weekends are busy with the gym, hitting lessons, job and church.

What are your plans for the future and what is your number one objective for the next year / season?

I’m definitely going to college to play softball. Preferably in Florida or Georgia but wherever the right fit is for me is what I’m searching for. My biggest goal for this year is to find that right college fit for me.

What is the biggest challenge you see in achieving your upcoming goal or where could you use help?

The biggest challenge is to not get overwhelmed with everything going on with the recruiting phase. Having faith and continuing to work hard will get me there.

What words of advice do you have for younger athletes that are up and coming?

No matter what the struggles you have, and you’ll have many, never, ever give up. The more struggles you have the better the end result will feel. Have fun and just be a kid. Sports are meant to be fun.

Who was your favorite player growing up or who's style of play do you most admire?

Kendra Falby and admire her style most as well. Mostly her insane catches in centerfield.

What one question would you have for your favorite athlete if they were sitting here now?

What motivated you each day to become a better version of yourself

Is there anything else you would like to share with the community?

Get one percent better everyday and have faith in all you do.