By Kevin Lantz
Most of us do not remember much about age three, but Dakota Hall may never forget. At the age when most kids are learning how to not fall, Hall was already on the diamond playing t-ball. From that point forward the junior from Ripley has played other sports as well but softball is the main thing, outside of school that has been a constant in her life.
Hall has played little league ball in Ripley where one of her teams placed 3rd at state. She started playing travel ball with a ten-and-under league team. Then she played with two more travel league squads and is currently a member of the Oklahoma Pure Fastpitch team.
When asked how she stays motivated after playing softball her whole life, Hall responded with this, “It would have to be hoping to get a college scholarship and making memories and friendships that will last a lifetime.“
Hall says her parents have sacrificed so much for her. “They have taught me so much about being the best player and person I can be.”
As a freshman Hall started at catcher and batted second in the lineup on a team that won it all. “Winning state fast pitch in 2020 with all my best friends.” Was her response to the question of what the highlight in her career may be.
It’s truly a wonder that Hall could find the time for this interview after I asked her if she was in any other clubs, sports, etc. Hall started the lengthy reply with, “I play basketball and slow pitch and I ran track my freshman year,” where two of her relay teams won medals, and then continued, “I am in FFA. I am the reporter. I show beef cattle and I am a member of FCCLA, FCA, and RUS.
As for Hall’s plans, she would like to continue playing softball and major in Forensic Science. She has had a few offers from a couple of schools but is still undecided and she still has another year in high school as well. Let’s hope that her choice will allow her to possibly play in the WCWS someday and another three-year-old can start to dream.
