Softball players add cheer to competitive games

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    OKLAHOMA CITY — Women’s college softball games are not only known for their intense competition but also for the lively atmosphere created by players cheering from the dugouts. With the sport’s increasing popularity, these spirited antics have caught the attention of more fans. The dugout cheers, chants, dances, and use of props add a unique and vibrant dimension to the games as teams maintain the tradition of energetic support for their fellow players.

    This dynamic tradition will once again take center stage on Wednesday when Texas faces Texas Tech in the first game of the championship series at Oklahoma City’s Devon Park. Texas star Reese Atwood emphasizes the importance of energy in women’s sports, stating, “We show a lot of passion, and I think it shows our heart and love for the game. And I think it brings the team together as one instead of being all about yourself.”

    Beneath this cheerful demeanor lies a fundamental goal — to back up teammates regardless of the circumstances. Texas assistant coach Kristen Zaleski summarizes it best with the idea that you’re either actively participating or providing support. Creative inspiration for cheers comes from various sources, including songs and witty spins on players’ names or numbers. For example, Arizona State adapted a phrase from Juvenile’s 2003 hit “Slow Motion” to cheer, “Ooh, I like it like that, she’s working that bat, I don’t know how to act!”

    The tradition is constantly evolving. Connecticut catcher Grace Jenkins notes, “Every single year, we get new cheers because new freshmen come in, our transfers come in and they have new cheers. But we just keep it loud and energized.” This infectious energy is believed to influence game outcomes by fueling momentum and bolstering performance on the field.

    For Oklahoma’s Nelly McEnroe-Marinas, some cheers are carried over from earlier playing days. The team encourages impromptu chants, eschewing designated creators. “A lot of the cheers we do are ones that we’ve been doing since travel ball. Anybody can come up with a cheer at any time and we’ll just bring it out on the spot.” On the way to securing four consecutive national titles from 2021 to 2024, Oklahoma’s willingness to embrace creativity has been key. Abigale Dayton adds, “Sometimes it’ll just be like, if someone’s screaming something, we’ll repeat it, but just — we’re just playing the game.”

    This constant soundscape, far from being a distraction, aids player concentration and performance. Grace Jenkins points out, “It actually helps… especially when I’m up to bat, it keeps me in the zone.” The team’s vibrancy helps players remain focused and resilient during challenging plays. “This team — we have seen when we don’t have the energy, we don’t play as well,” Atwood remarks, acknowledging Coach Mike White’s emphasis on maintaining a high level of enthusiasm, which encompasses cheers and proactive communication.

    Ultimately, these spirited declarations are about enhancing the fun and overall experience of the game. Texas outfielder Kayden Henry believes this energy is transformative, explaining, “The energy helps the game, keeps the energy, brings a lot of momentum and passion and support for each other.” Who will win isn’t determined, but adopting such contagious energy could prove decisive.