By Mike Moguin
Some athletes play multiple sports, and some put their time into just one.
Grove junior Brianna DeSilva has played softball and basketball in the past, but as a pitcher on the hill, she has reduced her activity to just one sport.
“I am putting my focus mainly on softball and trying to improve my skills in it,” DeSilva said.
Known as “Bri,” the Ridgerunner right-hander, has made her share of big plays and was raised by her parents playing the game.
“Many memories stick out to me from this year, but one of my favorites is when I had a diving play at third and threw the runner out at first,” DeSilva said. “I had made many attempts this year for diving plays, and finally I had a good one. This moment definitely stuck out to me.”
Her parents have played a big role in her life, on and off the field.
“My parents inspire me. They have coached me since I was little and made me who I am today. I would not be where I am right now without them,” DeSilva said. “Teammates who have left the biggest impression on me were Elliot Geer and Emily Gregg. Elliot always pushed everyone to do the absolute best they could and never slacked. Emily was always picking everyone up. If she were having a bad day, you would never know it because she would always be in a great mood,” DeSilva added.
Being involved in athletics has taught the Grove junior valuable lessons, she said.
“My sports taught me that you’re gonna fail,” DeSilva said. “It’s what you do after your failure that determines who you are/want to be. You can’t let your failures stop you from succeeding. All you can do is learn and move on to get the next one.”
When wearing the red, black, and white uniform of Grove, “my favorite part would have to be that I am not only representing myself, but I am representing my teams and my girls. Getting to wear my school’s name on the front of my jersey is a privilege, and I always strive to make my school, teammates, and coaches proud,” DeSilva said.
The Ridgerunner thrower has two pitchers from collegiate ranks she likes, one who has moved on to the pros.
“Two of my favorite softball players are Sam Landry and Jordy Bahl,” DeSilva said. “Both are amazing pitchers, and I love watching them and how they can both come into big teams and make a big impression.”
DeSilva said she is a big fan of the Sooners softball team.
“OU is my favorite softball team. I think every year they have some of the best athletes in the nation, and it is very exciting to watch,” DeSilva said. “I also really like Texas A&M. I think they had an amazing head coach this last season, and I can’t wait to watch both teams continue to compete.”
Outside of sports, DeSilva loves to spend time with her friends, working, and being at home with my family.
“I just want to say thank you to my parents for always pushing me,” she said. “And to my grandparents, who have come to every single game they were able. I will forever be grateful for the friendships I have gained through this sport.”
Follow DeSilva on Instagram @bridesilva5
