By Derrick Smith

There is a lot of work that athletes have to do in order to reach the goals that they set for themselves. And for Ariana Maxwell, it is about more than just doing the work that is required.

“I have been playing softball for about ten years,” she said. “It has taken a lot of late nights and early mornings in the cages for me to become the player I am today. I have also had to stay determined to work for what I want.”

Maxwell is a sophomore at Bishop McGuinness Catholic High School, where she is a dual-sport athlete. She plays third base and outfield for the softball team, while on the track team, she competes in the 4×100, 4×200, 4×400, and the long jump. 

There have been many people that have been a part of Ariana’s life and helped shape her into the person and athlete that she is today. But out of all of them, she says that there is one that stands out the most. 

“My dad, Vernon Maxwell, is the biggest role model in my life,” she said. “He pushes me to be my best at all times. He has been my coach for ten years now and spends countless hours training me.”

Another person that has influenced her life is her math teacher and track coach, Matt George.
“He has taught me that I can do whatever I put my mind to,” she stated. “And he has always pushed me to be better at anything I do.”

Playing sports for as many years as she has, Maxwell has made a lot of great memories over the years with her teammates.

“The highlight of my softball career happened before I moved to Oklahoma,” she said. “I played with the SWFL Panthers-Gatewood 05 and we won the Atlanta Legacy Tournament. Another would be becoming an All-Stater in track as a freshman.” 

After graduation, Ariana plans to pursue a career as a veterinarian after playing softball in college.