Mercades Lopez didn’t always love softball. In fact, it was quite the opposite. “I started softball from a very young age. My parents made me play, and I hated it,” she admitted. But over time, the sport grew on her. “Then I just fell in love with it.” Now a standout player for Idabel High School, Mercades’ passion for the game has only deepened.
Her journey into softball was inspired by her family. “My parents and my sister are my biggest influences,” she shared. “I love them and thank them for everything.” Their encouragement has shaped her both on and off the field.
This year’s team presents new challenges with a young and inexperienced roster. “The team this year will be pretty young and inexperienced, so we will need to gain chemistry,” Mercades explained. As the team leader, she knows the importance of setting the tone. “I prepare by leading by example and putting in extra work.”
Her goals for the upcoming season are straightforward yet meaningful. “I want to have a great season, have fun, and win a lot of games,” she said. Despite a late start to training due to basketball season, Mercades makes the most of her preparation. “I just try to hit as much as possible,” she said.
One of the most challenging moments of her career came when she had to pitch. “I hated pitching and had to do it because there was no one else,” she recalled. Instead of giving up, she pushed herself to improve. “I just worked harder at it and got better.”
Memorable moments on the field remind Mercades why she loves the game. “My most memorable moment was when I dove for a ground ball and got the girl out at 1st,” she said. Moments like that highlight her dedication and athleticism.
Looking ahead, Mercades has big plans for the future. “In five years, I see myself graduating college and being a physical therapist,” she said. She’ll continue her softball career at Murray State College, where she plans to major in physical therapy.
Community support plays a significant role in motivating Mercades and her team. “Community support is super important to our team and me. We love to show out in front of our fans,” she shared.
For younger athletes, Mercades has some advice: “Keep working hard and have fun.” She draws strength from her mom, whom she calls her role model. “She is so strong and does everything for me and is always there,” she said.
From state championships in track and basketball to her first win against Broken Bow in softball, Mercades Lopez has achieved a lot—and she’s just getting started.