The sound of metal cleats smacking the dust filled concrete overpowers the sound of the early morning birds. The smell of hot dogs at 6 in the morning remind everyone of the long, unexpected day ahead. Most people dread the sticky heat of summer softball, but for Riley Swickard this is her passion and one of her many desires.

Sophomore,Riley Swickard, has been a softball machine since she started school. From starting out with playing on the baseball team of all boys at age 5, she knew she loved this sport.

“I started playing because I really always enjoyed baseball, it kind of went in the family.” said Swickard.

But what separates her from the thousands of people in this school? That answer is her undeniable talent.

“She is fun yet leads by example and even though she is almost two years younger than her teammates, she always has a smile on her face.” Riley’s mom, Michele Swickard said.

Riley is currently playing fall and summer ball for her nationally ranked, 18A club team, The KC Bombers. Her main position is catcher and has been for many years. Not only thought is she exceeding in her job to catch a fierce pitch, Riley has multiple home run hits under her belt with a .700 batting average.

“It is not always a matter of winning for her (Riley), it is about creating a plan and seeing it through.” Michele said.

Swickard has been offered and seen by many college scouts. She has attended many college exposure camps and has been talked to by multiple people about her talent, but she still sees room for work everyday.

“My biggest accomplishment so far has been receiving my 1st team All-EKL for high school season my freshman year.” Riley said.

The award of 1st team All-EKL means that out of all eight high schools in the league, Riley was picked as one of the top players for softball.

Not only is she a good player individually, but Swickard makes her team improve as whole. Her club team is ranked 4th in the nation and even though Riley is the youngest player on the team, it doesn’t keep her from being the best teammate she can be.

“Having Riley on my team is a true privilege because I get to work with someone who not only wants to make herself better but the rest of her teammates better.” Sophomore Southwest softball player, Mikayla Murphy said,”She is not only true sport she is also a true friend on and off the field.”

With her humble spirit and talented moves, Riley Swickard walks down the hallways as an average student. A student that fits in with everyone else and someone who would never talk about her own accomplishments unless told too. However underneath all that, Riley is one special person.

“It’s really awesome how Riley can keep her grades up and still excel in outside activities.” Mikayla said,”It really inspires me to do the same thing, or at least try.”

Riley challenges herself everyday in the classroom with honors courses and staying on top of her studying. She also has many other artistic talents that include her drawings and her photography business that she keeps on the side.

With this type of busy schedule, one would wonder how she does it. How is she so good at softball? How does she manage all that she has? The answer is she is a determined, strong-hearted girl.

“Riley is one of my best friends and it makes me proud to say that.” Sophomore Southwest softball player, Maddie Lowry said.

Out of all that she does, Swickard maintains a well-balanced social life. With her religious beliefs by dedicating herself to her faith and making room for her many friends and family. Riley is the comedian and the girl that can light up a room with her smile.

“It’s obvious Riley has a true talent in this sport and with all of her talent, she is bound to go somewhere.” long-time friend, Freddie Charlesworth said, “She has every tool she needs and more to make her successful, which is why I can agree that she is 1 in 1,000.”