Sand Springs freshman Kamryn Lumsden is finding her place on the softball field while embracing the relationships, routines and lessons that come with competing at Charles Page High School.

Lumsden plays right field, a position that demands focus, quick reactions and confidence when the ball is hit high into the sky. For her, the biggest challenge is dealing with one particular type of fly ball.

“I play right field, the hardest part is the sun balls.”

At the plate, Lumsden relies on a personal routine to help her settle in before each at-bat. The routine gives her a familiar process as she prepares to compete.

“My at bat process goes like this: I touch my mouth, I put my bat in front of my left foot and slide my right foot across from where it goes.”

Softball has also introduced Lumsden to older players and new friendships. As a freshman, she appreciates the chance to learn from experienced teammates while developing connections throughout the program.

“What I enjoy most about being on the team is that I get to play with all of the older girls and making new relationships with new people.”

Those relationships help create an encouraging team atmosphere. Lumsden said her teammates bring energy every day and make sure no one feels alone after a mistake or difficult moment.

“I love that they are very energetic and they never let you be down. They’re always talking you up.”

Lumsden pointed to Lakelyn Harger as the team’s most vocal player. She said Bailey Copeland and Sawyer Briscoe consistently provide laughter, while several teammates leave the field with especially dirty uniforms.

“I think the most vocal teammate is Lakelyn Harger and the ones that always keep us laughing are Bailey Copeland and Sawyer Briscoe.”

“Lakelyn Harger, Sawyer Briscoe, Bailey Copeland, & Carlee Brewer.”

Among those teammates, Briscoe has made a strong impression on Lumsden through her leadership and positive attitude.

“I would say Sawyer Briscoe because she is a huge leader and she is always talking positive things and I strive to be as encouraging and having the same leadership that she does.”

Lumsden said athletics has already taught her a lesson that will apply far beyond softball.

“That nothing will just be given to you, you have to work for it.”

Away from the field, Lumsden enjoys spending time with friends and visiting the lake. Her favorite subject is math, and she credits Mrs. Myers, her teacher from fourth through eighth grade, as a favorite educator. She also attends her church’s youth group and plans to participate in archery.

For Lumsden, inspiration comes from Helen Keller’s perseverance.

“Helen Keller, because she was blind and deaf yet that never stopped her from everyday life & her dreams.”