Quinlyn Johnson

Blanchard High School

By Bryce McKinnis

Quinlyn Johnson, a Blanchard High School senior, has persevered through doubts on her wat to becoming Southern Nazarene University softball commit.

“During my, I would say, third year of competitive travel ball, I was struggling a lot with my mental health,” Johnson said. “I was diagnosed with severe anxiety at age 8 and it really took a toll on my life making me want to quit the sport I love. So that was definitely one of my biggest struggles to get me to where I am today. The biggest lesson that I have learned from softball is that you are not going to be perfect. This is a game of failure, and you are going to fail. It took me way too long to get that through my head but now that I have I have so much more fun playing this sport,” Johnson said

Leaning on her faith has helped Johnson navigate stress.

“Something everyone should know about me is my passion for Christ,” Johnson said. “I love going to church and staying strong in my faith. It’s also helped our team bond stronger by putting all our faith in him and trusting in his plan.”

The story of Johnson’s softball career has been one of triumph.

“I started playing softball at 4 years old and haven’t stopped since then. From rec league to travel ball, I’ve had a lot of great accomplishments, but starting as a freshman on varsity was a big one for me because I had set that goal for myself in middle school,” Johnson said.

She also helped the Lady Lions to a state tournament appearance last year. This year, Johnson and her teammates are coming for it all.

“Personally, my goals are to continue to get on base and score runs for my team,” Johnson said. “My team goals are to make it back to the state tournament again this year, but this time win it all.”

Johnson also runs track and participates in FCA and student council. She plans to pursue a degree in PTA and exercise science at SNU.

“What I love most about softball is the friendships and memories this sport has given me. I have so many lifelong friendships that I will hold onto forever.” – Quinlyn Johnson