Athlete of the Week: Richelle Ruiz, Olympia High softball

In Richelle Ruiz’s freshman year at Olympia High, she was bumped up from the JV softball team to the varsity team in the middle of the season, and she hasn’t looked back. Ruiz, now a senior, is swinging a .579 batting average on 20 plate appearances with seven runs batted in and three doubles in six games. 

Ruiz and the Titans celebrated the program’s first win over Windermere High’s softball team 5-2 Wednesday, Feb. 25. Through the first six games, the team held a 4-2 record. 

What do you enjoy most about softball? 

I enjoy the connections and friendships I make with my teammates, and the lifelong lessons I’ll carry with me.

When did you start softball and why did you join? 

I started softball when I was 7 years old and my dad encouraged me to play. 

What is your biggest accomplishment in softball? 

Winning second place at the state championship for my Little League team was a memorable accomplishment for me.

What has softball taught you? 

Perseverance is a skill I learned from softball. This game is a sport of failure, and I used to get very upset over a mistake. But over time, I needed to understand that these mistakes were inevitable, and they only made me into a better player. Managing my emotions and having grit came from softball. 

How would you describe yourself as a teammate? 

I am a cooperative teammate who truly wants to see the team go far. I care about my friends’ well-being and am always willing to step up whenever needed.

What advice would you give someone who just joined softball? 

This sport can get confusing at the beginning, so focus on learning the game’s rules by watching professionals play. Find the parts of softball you enjoy the most and have fun!

If you were a coach, what speech would you give the team? 

In this sport, you are constantly facing failure. It’s part of the game, and you cannot avoid it. So, you have to make the most of your mistakes. Take softball as a growing opportunity to learn and grow your skills as a team player. This game cannot be played without having fun.

What is your pre-game ritual? 

I have to listen to music before showing up to the fields, and then I love to stretch beforehand. 

If you could pick a different sport, what would it be? Why? 

Volleyball. It’s also a team sport that looks like so much fun to play. 

Who do you look up to the most? 

My parents are my biggest inspirations, because not only have they supported me in everything I do, but they have a strong sense of judgment and character that I admire. 

What is something new you would like to learn? 

I’d love to learn how to braid hair.

Where would you want to live if you weren’t in Florida? 

Venezuela, my home country, or any tropical place.

If you won the lottery what would you do with the money?

I’d prioritize my family and my education, then my family members overseas. After everyone’s comfortable, I’d spend it all on shopping and travel.

What is your favorite holiday? Why? 

I love Christmas and New Years — mostly for the food! 

What future career do you want to have? 

I would love to be a physical therapist in the future, because I’ve always been interested in the medical field and helping others the best way I can. 

If you became famous, what would it be for? 

Helping my community and people in need. 

If you had to pick a spirit animal, which would you choose? 

An orca or killer whale. 

What is your perfect day? 

Spending my morning at the beach with my family, then going back home, and hanging out with friends and (eating) food. 

Would you rather only eat fruit or vegetables? Why? 

Fruit! It’s sweet and healthy at the same time, basically candy that’s good for you, and you can make so many different recipes and drinks.