Charles Page Mom of the Month, Candice Sanders – Presented by Rib Crib

By Elizabeth Contreras

If there’s a Lady Sandites game on the schedule, chances are she’s in the bleachers. Whether it’s a scrimmage, freshman, JV, or varsity matchup, Candice Sanders’ presence is constant, cheering, encouraging, and quietly filling whatever role is needed that day.

She’s the proud mom of two players in the program: sophomore Raegin, in her first season as a Lady Sandite, and freshman Paisly, who joined the program in eighth grade. But it is her unconditional support that truly sets her apart, creating a sense of belonging for each member of the program. She’s there for every girl on the team, especially the ones whose moms can’t be.

“I don’t just go for my two girls,” she said. “I’m there for the girls whose mom is working the night shift or just can’t make it.”

From snacks and drinks to hugs, high fives, braided hair, or simply being a listening ear, she makes herself available however the team needs. Head coach Paige Wadley described Sanders as a complete sports mom, sacrificing her time, energy and resources for the good of the program.

“Her constant positivity and dedication make her an incredible role model and the heart of our team’s support system,” coach Wadley shared. 

Being present matters to her, and not just because she can, but because she remembers when her own mom couldn’t.

“All I ever wanted was to be a mom,” she said. “My mom worked nights to make ends meet and was rarely able to make my games. For me to be at all of theirs is a big deal.”

Rather than viewing the commitment to long nights in the gym as a sacrifice, she sees it as a privilege. It is time she said she is grateful to have in moments that pass far too quickly.

At the heart of it all is a simple promise: no matter the outcome, mom will be there.

“My hope is that every girl feels seen and valued,” she said. “Win or lose, effort matters. Character matters. This program is exactly where my daughters, and this team, belong.”

In Sand Springs, she isn’t just a basketball mom. She’s the mom for all.