RFH softball鈥檚 Emily Richards overcoming obstacles to achieve goals
RUMSON, N.J. — The very first home run on RFH鈥檚 new field was hit by a talented freshman, Emily Richards. At just 14 years old, Emily displays a unique drive in pursuing and honing both her artistic and athletic talents.
A unique combination of athleticism and creativity, Emily is focused and driven to succeed in the areas she鈥檚 most passionate about. She has found the art of ceramics to be therapeutic and rewarding and feels grateful towards her ceramics teacher, Mr. Wilson, who was able to introduce her to this special skill.
On the field, Emily is on her way to becoming an inspirational leader, just like her idol, professional softball player, Paige Halstead. 鈥淭he most fun,鈥� Emily says, 鈥渋s playing in the stressful games, the ones that have a lot of pressure.鈥� All of that 鈥渇un鈥� is paying off鈥s she has ended the season with a remarkable batting average. While many athletes her age would succumb to the pressures on the field, Emily thrives and embraces these challenges. She welcomes the hard work, puts in the extra time on her own, and watches college level games when she can.
Jerry Gagliano, RFH Head Softball Coach shares, 鈥淓mily is a hard working, dedicated young lady that has taken our team by storm. As a Freshman, she was our starting catcher and led the Bulldogs in batting average (.528), home runs (2), and tied for the team lead in RBI with 24.鈥�
While you would never know it, Emily has already been through some of life鈥檚 most heartbreaking events. Her mom, Ann, says, 鈥淚鈥檓 incredibly proud of her considering everything she has been through. I want her to become a role model so kids know they can get through anything if they open their heart and explore their dreams.鈥� Tragically, Emily鈥檚 younger sister, Molly lost her battle with cancer at the age of three. Hardship struck the family again this past May when their house burned down. Among the countless irreplaceable items lost in the fire were all of Emily鈥檚 art pieces.
In spite of it all, she continues moving forward with a positive attitude and as an inspiration to others. 鈥淚鈥檓 just taking it slow and doing what I love to make myself feel better,鈥� says Emily. This summer, she is playing on both the national team and in a travel softball league.
Off the field she’s got her dog, Rudy by her side. 鈥淗e鈥檚 my best friend and has been with me my entire life,鈥� she says. Emily has dreams of one day playing softball at the University of Washington and selling her handmade pottery.
She has some sage advice to other kids who may be going through some tough times: 鈥淚t will all work out鈥ven if you feel stuck at a young age and are not able to control much.鈥�
If you would like to contribute to the Richards family GoFundMe庐 page, please visit.
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