Avery Johnson '21 Recruiting Profile

    I’ve come a long way from this fantastic sport. I’ve grown mentally, competitively, athletically, etc. Mentally, I’ve had some bumps along the road as every year of ball I was switched. My 2nd year of 10u I was a catcher and outfielder, my first year of 12u I was the SS, my 2nd year of 12u I was the 3rd baseman, my 1st year of 14u I was the 2nd baseman, my 2nd year of 14u I was the center fielder, and as of right now I and currently am outfielder (starting positions haven’t been formed). It’s tricky never getting to learn a spot for more than a year, and it sure is frustrating. But also, I had just a few weeks of little training to learn how to slap, bat left-handed, and pull off the bunt from the left side. You see things from a new angle and it’s tricky. It makes me a better ball player though. I’m glad I get to learn it and I’m working on improving it this winter training season.

    I’ve learned a lot about myself. Some examples are how persistent I am. I strive to be better at everything I do, but when it comes to softball I give it 200% (if not more ;)) I’ve also learned how to be extremely positive even at the most frustrating times. Switching positions and learning new things are so difficult but negativity only drives you down a road that won’t be successful, my positivity has gotten me a long way! Living in Wisconsin has for sure been a setback compared to other states. For 1, Wisconsin middle schoolers are not allowed to play up for high-school ball. Secondly, living so close to Minnesota I play ball for the MN Magic, we are not allowed to play club ball until 14u, and lastly, we don’t have access to dirt fields in our winter time. Therefore we must practice inside and on our own. I take my bownet and tee and practice my right-hand hitting drills and my left-hand hitting/slapping drills. The extra free time in the winter allows me some extra time to focus on my academic goals.

    For high school, I would love to get a 4.0+ every semester and take as many AP classes as I can (while still passing). When it comes to college, my goal is to go to the best school for me, as of right now, I would like to major in Law. Athletically, my goals are to always give in 110%, push others to be their best on and off the fields, and potentially play National Pro Fastpitch after my college years.  Overall, softball has made me the person I am today, with other influences such as my friends, my family, my teachers, my coaches, etc. They’ve all taught me to be a loving and caring person towards others.