Miami High School junior forward Addy Douthit is learning that the biggest battles in soccer can happen in her own head as much as in front of the goal. As a varsity striker for the Miami Wardogs, she leans on speed, resilience and a tight-knit group of teammates she describes as “like sisters” to navigate a season filled with newcomers and high expectations.
“There are a lot of newcomers on our current team, and I admire our hustle and ability to adjust to that,” Douthit said. “I also love that I have teammates that are like sisters that I get to see every day.” That chemistry, she said, helps the Wardogs stay connected through the ups and downs of a long season.
Douthit plays forward/striker, a position that often puts her in the spotlight and under pressure. “The toughest thing about my position is keeping my mind on good things instead of all the negatives,” she said. “If you mess up, you have to think about how you’re going to overcome it.” She said her biggest strength is her speed, but she is focused on the mental side of the game as well. “I am most focused on staying out of my head and focusing on the next play,” Douthit said.
Representing Miami means more to Douthit than just wearing the school colors. “Representing Miami is special to me because there are so many people in the community that support and put so much into our athletics,” she said. That support extends from the stands to the classroom. Her favorite subject is history, and she still remembers her first-grade teacher, Mrs. Forrester, as her favorite. “She made everything so fun and has the biggest heart,” Douthit said.
Away from the field, Douthit enjoys quiet time with her cats and listening to music. She credits former Miami standout and current Missouri softball player Sidney Forrester as a major inspiration because of her drive and the way she carries herself. “Athletics in general has taught me to never let what anybody thinks or says affect you or your wellbeing,” Douthit said.
