Athlete Spotlight: Lyla Seibert #17

SPORTS: Softball

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

I started playing tee ball when I was 6 and I fell in love. I tried other sports but nothing else stuck. I've played everything from local rec to national travel ball and I can't remember a time where I haven't enjoyed it. One life experience that deeply impacted my journey was becoming a varsity starter in 7th grade. Playing with kids up to 7 years older than me really opened up my eyes and showed me what higher level softball was. This experience helped me learn how much a strong work ethic can benefit you even when the odds aren't in your favor. I have a very competitive personality and I won't stop working until I win. I believe that this motivates me and pushes me to the best of my abilities. My why is definitely my family. Especially my Pops, who comes and watches me play as much as he can. From cold school ball scrimmages to tournaments in Colorado in the middle of July he always shows up. He reminds me that the game is supposed to be fun and that no matter what the outcome is he always loves watching me play. He shows me what softball is all about, creating a community of people that love and support you just like he does.

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

My faith has always been very important to me. Growing up in a Christian household I've got to experience church every Sunday and youth group every weekend and I am eternally grateful for that. I try to put Christ in the center of everything I do. No matter if it's walking in the school hallways or playing on the field I try to present myself in a way that others see Christ in me. I want other people to know my relationship with Christ just by the way I carry myself. God has blessed me with the opportunity to play this sport and I want to make sure that I am showing his blessings to others. I have overcome many obstacles and I want to make certain that God is given all the glory.

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

My favorite Bible verse is Philippians 4:13 "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." It is a pretty common verse, but for me it takes on a bigger meaning. You don't have to be the strongest or the fastest to be great at what you do because God is always right by your side. No matter what the odds are God is going to help you overcome them whether you see it or not.

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

A personal accomplishment that I'm most proud of is being ranked 3rd in my class academically. I feel that this accomplishment helps show my work ethic not only in sports, but in all aspects of my life. I strive to be the best version of myself daily and I believe that this accomplishment shows that. An athletic accomplishment that I'm most proud is being a varsity starter since 7th grade. I have never been complacent about this role knowing that it could change at any time and I'm proud of how I have maintained it.

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

I feel that my work ethic and dedication set me apart from my competition. Whether I'm 0-4 or 4-4 I will be hitting the next day. I have set a routine that I don't let myself waiver from, knowing that I must put in work daily to reach my goals. I believe that my biggest assets are my leadership skills and my flexibility in the field as a utility player. I have always been a leader ever since I was younger. Not only do I set a standard for myself, but I want others to reach there full potential as well. I love setting the examples for others, while creating a strong team culture that lasts. I also believe that my ability to play wherever I am needed is one of my biggest assets. I love being a player that can contribute while playing multiple positions. It is something that I think has helped improve my game not just physically, but mentally as well.

What skills are you most focused on improving?

Currently, I'm most focused on improving my throwing velocity and my overall athleticism. My throwing velocity has gotten much better through this winter, but I can't wait to keep working and see how much stronger I can get in that area. I also love improving my overall athleticism. Lifting and speed work are things outside of softball that I really enjoy. I know that helping myself become stronger and faster will help improve my overall game.

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

Most days I go to school and go to school ball practice right after for around 2 hours. After that I have strength training or hitting lessons. When I come home from that I will either work some more on fielding, hitting or both. I also make sure to prioritize my school work when I come home as it is the most important. Then I go to sleep and do it all over again the next day.

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

My plans are to play collegiate softball at a school where I can receive a quality education. My number one objective for this upcoming summer travel ball season is to remember my why. During a stressful time in recruiting I want to remember the reason why I play. I want to remind myself of the little girl that fell in love with this sport many years ago, before there were showcases and college coaches. The little girl that played for the love of the game. I want to play the sport I love knowing that I am enjoying every minute of it.

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

My biggest challenge is remembering that softball is just a game. It's not who I am, it is just something that I do. Softball will always have a special place in my heart, but I have to remember that one day it will end. I want to be able to look back on these days knowing that I played free and for the love of the game.

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

My advice would be that softball doesn't define you. God doesn't judge you if you're in a slump or making errors. God sees you as more than a softball player, you are his child and you are worth more than your stats.

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

When I was younger I always enjoyed watching Josie Muffley from FSU play. She taught me that your size doesn't determine your outcome. You can be 5'5 and still play at the highest level. She showed me that your work ethic will always contribute more to your game than your size.

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

What was your recruiting process like as a player who's size didn't spark coaches attention?

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

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