Sports Spotlight - Windermere Observer: Mia Williams

Mia Williams still has two years before she can get her learner’s permit and start driving, but already she is a major contributor for the varsity softball team at Windermere Prep and has a scholarship offer from her dream college — the University of Florida. A verbal commit to the Gators, Williams is playing for the Lakers (7-5) for the first time this season and has made an instant impact as Windermere Prep’s starting shortstop.

Why did you decide to join the softball program at Windermere Prep this season?

I felt that I could really make a good impact on the team and help create a good vibe on the team.

As a veteran of the travel softball circuit, what do you enjoy about playing for your school for the first time?

I just love it, because they all respect me, because I’m committed and everything. They’re all so nice. I feel like I can really help the team get better.

What is it like playing at the varsity level, where some of your opponents are 17 and 18 years old?

I always want to do my best, and I always want to try hard, so I just get more competitive and try harder.

What is it like to have been offered by the Florida Gators as a seventh-grader?

I’ve always been a Gators fan. My mom and dad both went to UF, so it’s always been in my blood. It was emotional (to get the offer) — I started crying. I’m really thankful for it.

What are some things you are trying to improve?

I definitely need to get better at, when we’re down, I need to get better at bringing people up. As a middle infielder, I really need to talk more.

What’s something you’ve learned from playing for Windermere Prep head coach J.D. Wood?

He’s really teaching us to always have a good attitude, all-around — to block out the negativity and bring in the positivity.

Do you have a favorite college softball player?

I like Amana Lorenz — she plays for the Gators, and Hannah Adams, who also plays for the Gators. 

Have you learned about anything this year that you found particularly interesting?

We learned about sea animals. They’re interesting because the teacher is amazing, I love her.

What do you think you would like to study in college?

I want to study sports medicine, and I either want to coach college softball, or I want to work on campus and help with (physical) therapy.

If you could travel anywhere, where would you go?

I would go to either Iceland or Australia. Australia, I like their accents, and it’s beautiful there. Iceland, I don’t know, it’s far away, and I’d like to go there.

What’s your go-to postgame meal?

I crave pasta all the time. But I’ll usually go for something light, like a salad.