Some kids simply have an innate drive to excel. McKenzie C.? She leads the pack.

A gifted natural athlete, McKenzie was recently the recipient of a Leon N. Weiner Education Foundation enrichment scholarship to further her journey in softball as a member of the prestigious Southern Belles travel team. And what a journey’s it’s been!

McKenzie may have just turned 12 years old, but the sports phenom has already achieved some big things. For years, she has successfully juggled the demands of multiple softball leagues and highly competitive travel teams, and currently plays centerfield for the Belles.

Travel teams like the Belles provide exceptional experiences for elite players who are able to visit different states, meet other players in competitive tournaments, and hone their skills amongst the best in their age category. Not only is a travel team an incredible time commitment for the entire family, competing at this level also requires a significant financial investment. And the Godwin’s feel incredibly thankful to have these costs defrayed by the enrichment scholarship from the Foundation.  According to mom, Yolanda Godwin, “This scholarship made competing at this level a possibility, which is essential to her growth as a player.” 

Yolanda has no doubt about her daughter’s success on the team. “The secret to McKenzie’s success comes from within,” she says. Although she is a natural athlete, she never rests on her laurels. The Delmar 6th grader has always been competitive, Yolanda explains. Although she is the fastest member of her team, “she is always focused on building new skills and increasing speed, continually timing herself to get even faster.”

McKenzie’s competitive streak isn’t limited to just her passion for sports. Her academics also reflect her consistent pursuit of excellence and she is a “straight A” student. Unlike other students her age, “McKenzie doesn’t need prodding to finish her assignments or projects,” says Yolanda. Instead, she regularly checks in with her teachers to make sure she is on track, and stays that way. More importantly, she truly enjoys school and learning, with English Language Arts (ELA) a favorite, along with – no surprise – PE. This balance between sports and academics also keeps her grounded.

When asked what her future holds, the answer is immediate and definitive. McKenzie dreams of a career in professional women’s softball. And if her drive, determination, and work ethic are any indication, we’ll be watching her on ESPN in just a few years!

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