By Derrick Smith

There are a lot of things that go into someone becoming a great athlete. It is more than just showing up on the day of a game and walking out and playing. There is a lot of preparation work that has to be done. Josie Brady says that you have to work for it if you want it. 

“It has taken a lot of practice and support to gain momentum in the sports world,” she said. “I was never good at any sports I played because I didn’t like them or care enough to put in the effort. Once I started playing volleyball I immediately loved it and wanted to be playing every second of the day. Self-discipline is another thing that is so important in volleyball. You have to stay strong mentally just as much as you do physically. The support from friends and family is also great motivation to keep pushing.”

Brady is a sophomore at Oklahoma Christian School, where she plays middle blocker for the volleyball team. She is in her third season of playing volleyball.

While she has had a lot of support over her career, Josie says that there is one person in her life that has been a great role model and influence on her life. 

“I would say my biggest influence would be my grandma,” she said. “She is so sweet to everyone she comes across and always means well with everything she does. She constantly reaches out to me and the rest of my family wondering how everyone is and always making sure everyone’s happy. She would do anything to see a smile on her friends and family’s faces.”

Another person that has helped Brady become who she is would have to be Mrs. Howard, whom Josie calls her favorite teacher.

“I have had many great teachers over the years,” Josie said. “But Mrs. Howard constantly goes out of her way to make students feel loved and supported. She goes the extra mile making sure everyone understands and is always there for her students. She has taught me that no matter what you have gone through always try and put a smile on other’s faces and put yourself in their shoes.”