At Extra Inning Softball, we recognize the dedication, talent, and resilience it takes to rise through the ranks of competitive softball. However, there is one powerful force behind every athlete that is often overlooked—their mother.
As we approach Mother’s Day, we pause to acknowledge the mothers who support, guide, and inspire our athletes. These women, without ever seeking recognition, provide the foundation that empowers their children to succeed on and off the field.
In this special feature, we share reflections from the Extra Inning Softball team, highlighting how their mothers shaped them—not just as athletes, but as individuals. Their lessons extend far beyond the diamond, reminding us that the support of a mother is one of the most powerful influences in an athlete’s journey.
Listen below to hear the impact our mothers have had!
Faith, Strength, and the Lessons That Last
Bonnie Holland, CEO of Extra Inning Softball, shared how her mother’s, Carol Holland, influence shaped her entire life, both in and out of softball. Holland explained,
“There are countless lessons my mom has poured into my life. More than anything, my mother, Carol Holland, taught me the importance of building a relationship with the Lord. Life is difficult, but it is even harder without faith at the center of it.”
Holland reflected on how her mom’s actions spoke louder than words, guiding her through life’s toughest moments. Holland emphasized,
“She showed me that belief requires effort, consistency, and commitment. Through her example, I learned the importance of prayer, repentance, scripture study, and honoring the covenants we make.”
A particularly defining moment came when Bonnie’s younger brother was diagnosed with brain cancer at the age of 24. Holland recalled,
“When my younger brother was diagnosed, I remember hearing my mom pray for God’s will to be done. That moment changed my understanding of what it truly means to trust the Lord.”
Holland credits her mother with instilling the foundation of strength and faith that guides her every day. She concluded,
“Because of her, I understand that who you become matters more than what you achieve. If I can carry even a fraction of her example forward, I know I am exactly where I’m meant to be.”
Gratitude and Aspiration: A Daughter’s Reflection
Jayden Mount, Extra Inning Softball’s Community Engagement Specialist, shared her heartfelt appreciation for her mom, Kristi Mount. Mount said,
“Happy Mother’s Day to the best Mom ever! Thank you for teaching me to work hard for everything I have. Thank you for always supporting me in everything I do. Thank you for always being my biggest fan. I hope to be half the woman you are. I can’t wait to thrift and antique with you. I love you, Mom.”
Her message is a reminder that while the journey to success may be long, it’s the unwavering support of a mother that makes it all possible.
A Lifelong Bond of Confidence and Courage
Laina Holmgren, Extra Inning Softball contributor, reflected on the deep bond she shares with her mom, Susan Holmgren, who played an instrumental role in shaping her confidence and strength. Holmgren shared,
“My mom’s name is Susan Holmgren. Countless road trips, meals together, pre-game jam sessions, post-game talks—more than softball, all that time made her my very best friend.”
Holmgren’s mom was a constant source of encouragement and fearlessness. Holmgren emphasized,
“She taught me to be fearless in the pursuit of anything I want and to be completely confident in who I am. I’m thankful for those tough lessons because they made me stronger.”
Life Lessons Beyond Softball
Skyler Ball, digital content creator for Extra Inning Softball, shared that her mom, Deanna Ball’s, influence went far beyond the game. Ball explained,
“My mom has always prepared me for more than just softball—she’s prepared me for life. She’s been the one constantly reminding me that hard work matters, that nothing is ever handed to you, and that both in this game and in life, you’re not owed anything.”
Ball explained that her mom’s wisdom has helped her navigate life’s challenges. Ball admitted,
“Even when I didn’t want to hear it, she was always right. Because of her, I’ve learned discipline, resilience, and how to keep showing up no matter what—and that’s something that will carry me far beyond the field.”
The Power of Kindness and Empathy
Katie Lively shared a beautiful lesson her mom, Laurie Lively, taught her that extends far beyond the game of softball. Lively explaied,
“One thing that my mom has taught me that has stuck with me beyond softball is how to be kind & empathetic. My mom shows so much kindness and empathy to everyone she meets. She goes out of her way to make sure everyone feels loved, seen & appreciated.”
Lively strives to live by this lesson every day, though she humbly admits that she may never be able to replicate it as perfectly as her mom does. Lively shared,
“This is something I strive to do every single day, although I know I will never be able to perfectly replicate it as well as she does it!”
Unwavering Support Through Every Challenge
Sara Vanderford, an Extra Inning Softball contributor, shared how her mom, Paulette Breaker, has always been there for her—through thick and thin. Vanderford explained,
“My mom, Paulette, has been my rock since day one. She’s shown me what love, joy, and kindness truly look like and is the reason I carry those values with me every day. Whether it’s how strong-willed I am or how I show up for others, so much of who I am has her written all over it.”
Vanderford explained that her mom’s support has never wavered, even through the hardest times. Vanderford shared,
“From long car rides to six-hour trips just to watch me play, she has shown up in every stage of life. She’s been there through my highest highs and lowest lows, always guiding me and teaching me something along the way.”
Why This Story Matters
At Extra Inning Softball, we often focus on the athletes—their talent, their performance, and their journey. But the truth is, the support of a mother is what enables an athlete to take on the challenges that lie ahead.
Mothers teach the lessons that matter: resilience, discipline, empathy, and faith. They are the quiet strength that carries their children through both success and adversity. This Mother’s Day, we celebrate not only the athletes but the women who raised them.
The Legacy of a Mother’s Love
These stories remind us of one undeniable truth: mothers are the foundation. The greatest gifts they give aren’t just the lessons they share but the example they set. It’s in the way they love, guide, and show up for their children that shapes their lives forever.
This Mother’s Day, let’s take a moment to celebrate the unsung heroes—the mothers who made these athletes who they are. Because in every game, every achievement, and every challenge, their influence is there.
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