The numbers speak loudly about the impact of Tymber Alford in the lineup for the Tushka Lady Tigers. This past season she totaled 40 runs, 36 RBI and three home runs. The everyday playmaker over the last four years helping her team to 93 victories, the senior’s defensive skills at shortstop plus team leading results at the plate resulted from a non-stop desire to get better every day.
“For me to be successful in softball has required me to make a lot of sacrifices and taking extra time to do the little things right,” said Alford. “Turning my off days into practice days, spending my weekends at the field hitting and fielding, it’s part of the game if you want to get better day to day.”
According to Alford, who began playing softball at age four on the Tushka Twisters, the shortstop has to be able to cover a lot of the field and move at an extremely fast pace. “It’s my favorite position because that is where I am challenged the most and I love to be in the action of the game.”
According to her coach, “Tymber Lou” consistently let her actions speak loud as an example for others to model. “She’s a great player whose talents are made better because of her work ethic,” admits Tushka coach David Durbin. “ Tymber’s example of dedication set the standard for others to follow.”
Alford admits her commitment to give her all every day mirrors the life skill examples of her mom. “She is extremely hard working and I have always wanted to be like her and have her drive to work hard,” replied Alford. “Mom proves by her efforts the importance of the advice that I follow daily…the grind never stops but hard work does pay off.”
While still weighing her choices for playing softball after receiving offers from colleges in Oklahoma, Texas and Kansas, Alford plans to pursue a degree in kinesiology with a potential career as an athletic trainer.
And when she closes the book on her athletic accomplishments while wearing the green and white Tushka uniform and number-1 Lady Tigers’ jersey, Tymber Alford no doubt leaves a footprint of success for others to follow. “I hope to be remembered for being the hardest worker who always gave it my all while having fun at the same time,” confirmed Alford. “Sedulous, loyal and hard working is what’s required IF you want to be the best, on and off the field.”
