Broken Arrow High School sophomore Laney Hanson has spent the past decade building her game on the softball field. Now a varsity center fielder for the Lady Tigers, Hanson brings speed, versatility and a team-first approach to every opportunity.

Hanson said the close bond among her teammates makes competing for Broken Arrow special.

“I love that we are all so close and supportive of each other. We are like a family. We lose together, we win together, and we always have each others backs,” Hanson said.

That sense of connection has been central throughout Hanson’s softball career. Whether she is making plays in center field or contributing at the plate, she values the chance to compete alongside teammates who have become more than just players sharing a lineup.

“I have been playing softball for 10 years. What I enjoy most about being on the team is that my teammates feel like family. I love getting to compete and make memories with them,” Hanson said.

At the plate, Hanson uses her speed to keep opposing defenses guessing. She can drag bunt, power slap or hit away, making her a difficult matchup and an important offensive weapon for the Lady Tigers.

“One of my biggest strengths is my speed. I can drag bunt, power slap, or hit away, so the defense never really knows what to expect. I’m working on improving my pitch selection and being more disciplined at the plate,” Hanson said.

Hanson also draws inspiration from former Oklahoma standout Jayda Coleman, another left-handed center fielder. Beyond their shared position and style of play, Hanson admires Coleman’s faith and character.

“Jayda Coleman inspires me the most because I feel like we are a lot alike. I play center field, I’m a lefty, and she is a lefty too. But what inspires me most is her love for Christ as an athlete. That is something I really strive to have in my own life and in the way I play the game,” Hanson said.