Athlete Spotlight: Eloni Preston #2

SPORTS: Softball

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

I grew up in a coach’s household, so sports have always been a big part of my life. My dad coaches basketball, football, and baseball, and he also played slow-pitch softball. The first sport I played was 6U softball, and that’s really where my love for the game started. Over the years I also played soccer for two years, basketball for four years, and volleyball for three years. Even while trying other sports, softball was always the one I loved the most. What started as a fun sport when I was little turned into a real passion, and now after almost a decade of playing I still love the challenge of competing and finding new ways to get better. Growing up around coaches also taught me to watch and understand the game, not just play it. In our house we live by “Earned Not Given,” and that mindset pushes me to keep improving and compete at the highest level possible while honoring the gifts God gave me.

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

My faith plays a central role in both my life and my sports career. It keeps me grounded and reminds me that my identity is bigger than wins or losses. In sports, I face pressure, setbacks, and challenges, but my faith gives me peace and confidence knowing that God has a plan for me. It motivates me to work hard, stay disciplined, and compete with integrity. I don’t just play for recognition, I play to honor God with the gifts He has given me.

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

My favorite Bible verse is Philippians 4:13. It’s a daily reminder that God wouldn’t have placed this dream on my heart if He didn’t believe I could reach the next level. It gives me confidence and strength when I face challenges.

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

Personally, I’m most proud of maintaining a 4.0 GPA while being a student-athlete, because balancing school and sports takes a lot of discipline and time management. Athletically, I’m most proud of continuing to improve my skills and compete at a high level, even when things get challenging.

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

I think what separates me is that I don’t just play softball—I understand it. I’ve grown up around the game, so I naturally see situations develop and stay one step ahead. I bring lefty power at the plate, versatility on defense, and I’m someone my team can count on in any moment. I’m locked in, I compete hard, and I’m always working to elevate my game—not just maintain it.

What skills are you most focused on improving?

I am focused on improving my fielding, particularly my first step quickness, glove work, and throwing accuracy under pressure. I want to be a dependable defensive player who makes routine plays consistently and can also make difficult plays when the team needs it most.

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

I’m homeschooled, so I structure my days around school and softball. I spend about three hours on academics daily, along with strength training. During the week, I either have games or help coach my dad’s high school softball team, and I spend the rest of my time on skill development. On weekends, I focus on recovery, family time, and film study, while also making time for friends. 

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

My plans for the future are to continue working hard both on and off the field, competing at the highest level, and finding the college that is the best fit for me athletically, academically, and personally. My number one objective for this next year and season is to have a great summer, elevate my performance, and prove that I can compete consistently at the next level.

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

One of my biggest challenges is that I hold myself to a really high standard. I’m my own toughest critic, so even when I perform well, I’m always thinking about how I can be better. That mindset pushes me, but I’m also learning how to balance it so I can stay confident and not overthink in the moment. Where I could use help is continuing to trust my preparation while refining the small details, so I can turn that drive for improvement into consistent performance. I’m always looking for ways to improve and compete at a higher level.

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

My advice to younger athletes would be to never quit. Things are going to get hard, and there will be moments when you feel discouraged, but those challenges are what build strength and resilience. Pushing through tough times doesn’t just make you a better athlete, it shapes you into a stronger, more resilient person as you grow older.

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

I would say Katie Stewart. Not only is she an elite hitter, but she’s also a very versatile player who can impact the game in multiple ways. I really admire her style of play and the way she competes.

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

If my favorite athlete were sitting here right now, I would ask them how they knew when they found the right program—not just a good option, but the place that truly felt like home. I’d want to understand what factors mattered most to them in that decision and how they balanced everything to choose the best fit for their long-term growth.

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

I’d just like to share that I try to live by Colossians 3:23–24—“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord…” That’s what fuels me in all I do. It reminds me to give my best in every moment, whether anyone is watching or not, and to stay grounded in who I am beyond the game, the noise, or any limitations placed on me.