Washington’s Presley Lucas
Softball player Presley Lucas has built her game on power at the plate, steady leadership and a faith-driven approach that shapes everything she does for Washington High School.
Lucas serves as the designated player for Washington, focusing solely on hitting but embracing a larger role as a vocal presence in the dugout. She said what she values most is the bond within the program and the chance to share her faith with teammates and opponents.
“What I love most about our team and girls is our sisterhood,” Lucas said. “I love that we pick each other up no matter what it is. I love that we are truly like sisters in everything we do, and that sisterhood goes far beyond the softball field. I also love that we get to talk about Jesus and pray with our opponents after every game.”
Lucas credits her parents for the work ethic and perspective she brings to athletics and school.
“My mom and dad inspire me,” she said. “They work their butts off to provide for our family. They worked from the ground up to make sure us girls everything we need. Even after hard days at work and long weeks they still make time for me and my sisters. They helped us become the most successful we can be in everything we do. They taught us who our Lord and Savior is, and I couldn’t be more thankful. Every day they make sure and show us how loved we are. I aspire to be like them when I am older.”
As a DP, Lucas said the biggest challenge is handling the mental side of hitting without contributing on defense.
“I am the designated player (DP) for our high school softball team, so I just hit,” she said. “The toughest thing about only hitting for the team is not being able to make up for bad at bats in the field. I have had to learn how to shake off a bad AB quickly and how to let it go before I step into the box again.”
Her favorite memory came early in her high school career, when Washington captured the fast-pitch state title during her freshman season.
“My older sister was a senior that year, so I got to win a state title alongside her and my dad,” Lucas said. “It was so special getting to do it with the people I love most.”
Away from the diamond, Lucas is involved in Fellowship of Christian Athletes, National Honor Society and FCCLA, reflecting her commitment to academics and service. She said sports have given her tools that extend beyond softball’s lines.
“It has taught me how to keep going when things get hard. It has taught me to celebrate other’s successes. It has also taught me where my identity lies, and this is in Christ.”
