There is someone in each of our lives that makes an impact on us and helps shape us into who we will become. Lily Hance is a softball player for the Union Lady Redhawks and she has had a few people that have and still play a big role in her life.

“My dad and my friend Monica Franklin have been the biggest role models in my life,” she said. “My dad was a successful college athlete, and he continues to teach me important lessons about handling adversity. Monica is an amazing athlete who constantly reminds me to have confidence. And a teacher that has impacted me is my current math teacher, Mr. Thomas. He is not only an amazing teacher, but a faithful man who demonstrates his relationship with God in his actions. He was also a coach and understands the life of a student athlete. He is always there for me if I need help in academics, athletics, or life.”

Lily is in her senior year at Union. Along with playing softball she is also a member of the Student Athlete Advisory Council, the National Honor Society, and Mu Alpha Theta. She also participates in the Sustainable U monthly campus cleanups.

Union head softball coach Courtney Girty says Hance has been a key player for her squad the past few years.
“Lily is one of the team leaders this year,” she said. “She has started all of her years here at Union and will now be a senior. She will be one to watch in the outfield. Her defense is as good as they come and her leadership is what commands our outfield.”

Being prepared when she steps out on the field is something that is important to Lily and she says there is a lot that goes into it.

“Softball is one of the most mental sports because it requires accepting failure,” she said. “In order to be successful it has taken countless hours of individual work, having a good support system and team, and preparing my mind and having a positive mindset.”

Hance is proud to wear the Redhawks uniform and is proud to be able to represent her school when she competes.

“Coming from Union we have always been taught to ‘Rep the U’ and to have school pride,” she said. “Playing as a Union athlete means to have commitment, teamwork, confidence, positivity, encouragement, a strong work ethic. These morals represent the U and help me shine as a player on and off the field.”

When she is not working on schoolwork or practicing softball, Hance works at Raising Canes in Bixby, where she says she has amazing managers.