Whether I’m sitting behind the dugout or sneaking a peak during track practice, softball has undoubtedly become one of my favorite Westridge sports to watch. This year, I sat on the cold bleachers behind the dugout more than ever, and during that time, one freshman caught my eye: Jadyn M. ‘27. 

I had heard about her talent from my friends, like softball superstar and captain Rysie Y. ’25, so seeing Jadyn pitch myself only solidified my impression. Her pitch versatility was impressive, and so was her strength. Again and again, I watched umpires call strikes and batters walk off frustrated. After spending many weeks watching her, I was not surprised to learn that Jadyn and her killer pitch led the Prep League in strikeouts this season, as a freshman. So, I sat down with her to learn more about her background in softball, the 2024 season, and her personality. 

Jadyn has been playing softball for most of her life at the club level, preparing her to compete at Westridge. She said, “In club, I’ve gained a lot of experience. So I can take what I’ve learned from club and try to implement that into our high school season.” Jadyn attributes her success this year to her experience, particularly with regards to leading the league in strikeouts. Jadyn wasn’t surprised to receive the recognition and noted that few other pitchers in the Prep League compete at the level she does, giving her a leg up.

Despite Jadyn’s presence and skill in the pitching circle, she noted that the highlight of her season was working with her teammates. ”Maybe [it’s] because I’m a pitcher, but I am really proud of my catchers because they did really well this season,” she said. Jadyn also said that interacting with her team was her favorite part of the season.“I think [the season] was really fun because of the players,” Jadyn continued.

The feeling is mutual for Jadyn’s teammates. Captain Rysie Y. raved about her experience playing with Jadyn as an athlete and friend. “Playing with Jadyn this year has been so incredible. She is a freshman, but is no doubt the best pitcher in the league. She’s an extremely hard worker, amazing teammate, and I just love her”

Though the Tigers did not have many wins this season, Jadyn noted that the team was able to grow because of support from the coaches. “The coaches were also great, setting the tone for the season with the theme of teamwork and focused fun,” she said. 

In terms of personal growth, Jadyn thinks she has become more of a leader. “Being a leader this year was very natural because the team wanted to get better and was very supportive. I happened to be one of the more experienced players and I just did what I could to help the team.”

Rysie Y. echoed that sentiment, praising Jadyn for growing into a leader: “She has grown into a really strong leader of our team. Having her as a freshman also be there to support our teammates is very helpful.” As Rysie enters her senior season, and the rest of the team’s core leaders flock off to college this year, Jadyn’s presence will become increasingly important in the future.

Speaking of the future, next year, Jadyn looks forward to playing Flintridge Preparatory School again, one of her favorite games of the season. “I think our Prep game was one of our best games,” said Jadyn. This time though, she hopes to flip the script on the Wolves and lead the Tigers to victory.