The Oklahoma Sooners have long been a powerhouse in collegiate softball, producing some of the game’s most dynamic and influential athletes. Among the ranks of those who have donned the crimson and cream are Jayda Coleman, Kenzie Hansen, and Alyssa Brito—All-Americans whose performances on the field have not only propelled their team to championships but have also inspired the next generation of softball stars. Their reputation for excellence has extended far beyond the diamond, and most recently, their influence took the form of a unique and unforgettable opportunity for one young athlete named Bailee.
It all began when the trio of former Oklahoma standouts decided to host a hitting clinic designed to share their wealth of knowledge with rising softball players. Known for their intense work ethic, strategic acumen, and unwavering leadership, Jayda Coleman, Kenzie Hansen, and Alyssa Brito brought to the clinic not only their skills but their deep understanding of what it takes to succeed at the highest levels of the sport. Their goal was simple: to uplift and mentor aspiring athletes through hands-on instruction and personal interaction. Among the lucky participants selected for this elite experience was Bailee—a passionate and dedicated softball player whose potential had begun to draw the attention of coaches and mentors in her community.
Bailee’s invitation to the clinic wasn’t just a chance to hone her swing or fine-tune her stance. It was the culmination of years of hard work, early mornings, late practices, and an unwavering love for the game. For Bailee, the sport of softball wasn’t just a pastime—it was a calling, and being given the opportunity to learn from some of the sport’s finest was nothing short of a dream come true. As she stepped onto the field where the clinic was held, she was greeted not by distant celebrities, but by warm, grounded mentors eager to share their experiences and help her grow.
Jayda Coleman, known for her exceptional speed, athleticism, and versatility in the field, took an immediate interest in Bailee’s approach to hitting. Watching her with a keen eye, Jayda offered feedback on everything from grip pressure to pitch recognition. She broke down the subtle nuances of hitting with clarity and enthusiasm, often drawing from her own experiences as an elite-level outfielder and offensive catalyst for Oklahoma. For Bailee, the chance to engage with Jayda on such a personal level was both exhilarating and reassuring. Jayda’s approachable demeanor and confidence made it easy for Bailee to absorb lessons that might otherwise have seemed daunting.
Kenzie Hansen brought a different but equally powerful perspective to the clinic. As a catcher, her insights into pitch selection, timing, and reading a pitcher’s intent proved invaluable. Kenzie emphasized the mental aspect of hitting—how to approach the plate with a plan, how to adapt in real time, and how to recover from setbacks during an at-bat. Her ability to articulate the psychological side of the sport helped Bailee see the game from a broader perspective. For someone who had always focused on mechanics and reps, Kenzie’s teachings opened up an entirely new dimension of understanding.
Alyssa Brito, a powerful hitter known for her consistency and clutch performances, rounded out the coaching trio with insights grounded in repetition, preparation, and confidence. Alyssa’s instruction focused on building a hitting routine—establishing habits that could carry a player through slumps and keep them focused in high-pressure situations. She emphasized the importance of staying balanced, both physically and emotionally, through the ups and downs of the game. Alyssa’s coaching style blended firmness with encouragement, challenging Bailee to push past her comfort zone while reminding her of the importance of self-belief.
Throughout the clinic, Bailee was struck not just by the talent and knowledge of her mentors, but by their humility and genuine desire to give back. Each of the three All-Americans took time to connect with the participants individually, asking about their goals, their challenges, and what they loved most about the game. It was clear that this was more than just another clinic—it was a mission to inspire. For Bailee, the experience was transformative. She walked away not only with improved mechanics and a more refined approach at the plate but with a renewed sense of purpose and determination.
The clinic also provided a window into the culture of excellence that has come to define Oklahoma softball. Jayda, Kenzie, and Alyssa each spoke of their time in Norman with pride, highlighting the camaraderie, discipline, and relentless pursuit of improvement that shaped them. They credited their coaches, teammates, and the university community with fostering an environment where greatness wasn’t just expected—it was cultivated. For Bailee, hearing these stories helped her understand the broader journey of becoming an elite athlete. It wasn’t just about individual talent; it was about mindset, resilience, and surrounding oneself with people who believed in the same vision.
As the day went on, Bailee found herself gaining confidence. At first, she was hesitant to ask questions, unsure of whether her voice belonged in the same space as such accomplished players. But as the clinic progressed, she began to feel at home. The encouragement she received from Jayda, Kenzie, and Alyssa wasn’t performative or obligatory—it was heartfelt and sincere. They celebrated her progress, corrected her mistakes with care, and pushed her to trust herself more with each swing. By the end of the session, Bailee was not just participating—she was thriving.
The highlight of the day came during a mock batting session, where participants were given a chance to put their newly honed skills into practice. With her mentors watching, Bailee stepped into the cage and delivered a series of confident, powerful swings. Her mechanics were sharper, her timing more precise, and her mindset focused. Each hit was met with cheers and encouragement, not just from the coaches but from fellow participants who had watched her grow throughout the day. It was a moment of validation for Bailee, a sign that the work she had put in—and the lessons she had just learned—were taking root.
After the clinic, Jayda, Kenzie, and Alyssa stayed behind to speak with participants, pose for photos, and offer words of encouragement. They spoke openly about their own journeys—the challenges they had faced, the sacrifices they had made, and the moments of doubt they had overcome. Their honesty resonated deeply with Bailee, who realized that even the most accomplished athletes had once stood where she was—uncertain, hopeful, and driven by a love for the game.
Bailee left the clinic with more than just a refined swing. She left with a sense of belonging and the knowledge that she had the tools, both physical and mental, to reach the next level. She also carried with her the memory of a day that had changed her life—a day when her heroes became her teachers, when her passion was recognized, and when her dream began to feel within reach. The experience fueled her training in the months that followed. She returned to practice with new drills, a deeper focus, and the kind of confidence that only comes from being truly seen and supported.
In the weeks after the clinic, Bailee’s coaches noticed a difference. Her performance at the plate had improved, but more importantly, so had her leadership and resilience. She began sharing what she had learned with her teammates, echoing the mentorship she had received. In doing so, she continued the cycle of inspiration—passing along the wisdom she had gained and helping others believe in themselves the way Jayda, Kenzie, and Alyssa had believed in her.
For the three Oklahoma legends, the clinic was a continuation of their legacy—a chance to give back to the game that had given them so much. They understood that greatness isn’t measured only in championships or stats, but in the impact one has on others. By investing their time, energy, and hearts into the development of players like Bailee, they ensured that their influence would endure long after their final collegiate at-bat.
Bailee’s story is just one of many, but it captures the essence of what makes the Oklahoma softball program so special. It’s not just about producing elite athletes; it’s about cultivating a culture of mentorship, excellence, and empowerment. In giving Bailee the chance to learn from some of the sport’s best, Jayda Coleman, Kenzie Hansen, and Alyssa Brito reminded everyone watching that the future of softball is bright—and that with the right support, any player with a dream can rise.
As Bailee continues her journey in the sport, she carries with her the echoes of that unforgettable day—the sound of a perfectly timed hit, the laughter of shared moments, the encouraging words of her mentors, and the belief that she belongs in the game. The clinic may have lasted only a few hours, but its impact will last a lifetime, both for Bailee and for those lucky enough to be touched by her own journey in the years to come.
