East Mississippi Community College Head Softball Coach

I honestly can't say enough about Makea-Al to make you truly understand what an incredible person and player she is. If you'll notice, I said person first. I have never met someone with such passion and focus on everything she does. Kea puts in the extra reps that every coach preaches about, but very few players actually do. Most athletes need the reassurance that someone sees them putting the work in. There are so many nights that I would run back to the hitting facility and see her there, getting extra cuts, with purpose. She was always the first one to practice, usually getting extra work in before, and always the last to leave. She was making sure everything was put up and done the right way. Makea-Al is one of the most humble and respectful athletes that I have ever coached. Her work ethic is unmatched. Her family has raised her to always stand up for what she believes in and that resonates to her core being.

Now on to her athletic ability. Makea-Al is one of the most naturally gifted athletes I have had the privilege of coaching. She can hit on both sides with a tremendous amount of power. One game, she hit 2 homeruns in the same inning. She hit a 2-run shot (right-handed) and the second time she came up left-handed with bases loaded and hit a grand slam. What player do you know that could hit like that?! She ended that game going 3-3 with 3 homeruns (2 right-handed, 1 left-handed) and a walk. Makea-Al has the quickest hands I've seen. She has a great glove and is always finding new drills to work on every aspect of her game. Her softball IQ is very impressive. I feel like I'm speaking with a colleague every time we have a conversation. There is no doubt in my mind that she will be an incredible asset to whatever club picks her up. Her ability to work with any age, and speak to them with respect, is a quality that is overlooked sometimes, too.

Makea-Al is a humble woman of integrity. She will always push past the limit to be the best and is driven by both passion and discipline. When I am out recruiting, Kea is the athlete I am always looking for.

I truly mean every word of what I wrote. She is incredible. I am so lucky to have coached her, and now consider her a friend.