Strother’s Gracey Rich
By Rose Hutchins
Gracey Rich, a sophomore at Strother High School, competes in both softball and basketball, making her presence known as a pitcher and utility player on the softball field. She’s had a passion for the game since she was four years old. The sport has shaped not only the athlete she is today but the person she continues to become.
What initially drew Rich to the sport was more than just the competition. She thrives on the process of pushing herself to be better. Rich’s biggest influences came from close to home.
“My older sister Kailey is my biggest influence because I’ve watched her push through adversity to become the athlete she is and achieve her dream of becoming a college softball player,” Rich shares.
Her ability to watch her sister’s journey has shown Rich that she also can set her own goals and achieve whatever she puts her mind to.
At Strother, team culture is something Rich values deeply.
“One thing that makes my team so special is that we enjoy each other outside of the game, not just on the field,” she explains.
The unwavering support they have for each other and shared desire to excel to new heights have helped shape the team into what it is today.
Success for Rich isn’t always seen. She dedicates a lot of time to work behind the scenes on and off the field with the support of her family and friends. That mindset has led to numerous unforgettable moments. Her favorite memories are playing alongside her best friends and watching the team grow together. While there have been many highlights, Rich believes the best is still ahead, with the hope of a state tournament appearance as the ultimate goal.
At school, Rich stays involved by serving as FFA Chapter Secretary, Sophomore Class Secretary, and is active in TSA, National Honor Society, softball, and basketball. It can be a challenge to balance it all, but she never backs down to a challenge.
“It takes a lot of late nights, early mornings, hard work, and sacrifice to balance everything, but every moment is worth it,” Rich says.
Rich takes pride in representing Strother and her community. Strother isn’t a town well known to many, but she hopes people are finally starting to know their name with the help of every girl on their team building recognition for the school.
After high school, Rich’s goals are clear. She hopes to play college softball while pursuing a degree as a pediatric respiratory therapist.
