Spotlight Athlete: Ellie Yonce #12

SPORTS: Volleyball & Softball

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

When I was little I knew I wanted to play softball for a long time. After trying dance, at a very young age I knew that wasn’t for me and tried on my first pair of cleats. My mom played college softball and I wanted to be just like her. My motivation comes from my dad. My family grows and owns a peach farm and he works hard to provide for his family! I see how hard he works and I know I can do it too!

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

I know that just like in life, on the field I am accepted by Christ! I don’t have to prove anything, I am already proven. My faith teaches me that even when I fail, I am worthy in Him!

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

Colossians 3:23-24

23 Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, 24 since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.

I have been blessed with a gift to play the sport I love and will use it to glorify Him! 

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

Personally I am proud of keeping a busy sports schedule while keeping good grades and sharing my faith to friends and classmates. Athletically I am proud of my growth through the years not just physically but mentally and making a national level team this year!

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

My work ethic sets me apart. Even when I’m not my best, I continue to work hard at my skills and I know it will pay off. I also try to be a great teammate no matter the situation. I also have some speed and love to run! I am a slapper and work hard at that skill.

What skills are you most focused on improving?

I try to improve all areas of my game, but hitting can be my biggest challenge! I work on it ALOT! And it’s not a physical skill, but a mental one, I try to stay positive no matter the outcome!

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

School everyday, softball practice 5 days a week, weightlifting, hitting and fielding lessons 2 nights a week, speed training once a week, tournaments on Saturdays and church on Sundays when I’m home! When I’m not able to go I read my Year In the Bible book- a 52 week Bible study for women! I stay busy!

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

My dream is to one day play college softball and study sports medicine! Next season I will be a freshman in high school and my objective is to be more vocal and be a good leader on the field.

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

My biggest challenge is staying positive when not seeing the results I want. I know no matter the outcome, the plans the Lord has are already set for me! Keeping myself positive is where I can use help!

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

Never give up! No matter how hard it seems. You are worthy!

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

I have attended softball camp at Clemson University and watched games and I love Kylee Johnson! I loved learning outfield skills from her and love watching her play! She is energetic and up beat!

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

I would ask my favorite athlete good tips to keep a positive mindset through adversity! I would ask them how they overcame obstacles during their softball career and what they did to become a stronger athlete, mentally and physically!

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

Be positive, be kind, and love Jesus!