Rising Star: 8th Grade Northwest Softball Pitcher Sophia Schlader
The Waukee Northwest High School softball team is heading into the state tournament led by a star pitcher — who just finished eighth grade. Sophia Schlader showcases exceptional talent beyond her years.
Despite her young age, Sophia has already made a significant impact on the field. She currently leads the CIML Conference in strikeouts (222) and ERA (.81), and she leads the state in home runs with 18. Her successful debut season has set the stage for a promising future in softball.
A Lifelong Love for Softball
Sophia’s journey in softball began almost as soon as she could walk.
“I got my first tee ball set on my first birthday. I started off playing tee ball and then coach pitch through the Waukee YMCA and Waukee Parks and Rec. In second grade, I started playing club ball for the Waukee Athletic Club (WAC). By fifth grade, I was asked to play for a national team out of Chicago, the Beverly Bandits. For the past four seasons, I’ve been playing with the Bandits and traveling all over the country for tournaments. I also play for the Iowa Aries whenever I’m available.”
Her list of accolades is impressive: two-time USA Softball All-American, USA Softball HPP Top Performer in 2023, and she has a goal to hit a home run in every state. So far, she has 122 home runs in 12 states.
“I started taking pitching lessons when I was 8 years old. Since my first time pitching, I have always thrown pretty hard for my age. It came naturally to me.”
For Sophia, softball is more than just a sport. It’s a passion.
“Softball is something that I’ve always wanted to work hard at and I love the game. I’ve never been pushed or forced to practice, and I’ve never lost motivation to stop working. I’ve always wanted to be the best softball player I can become, and I’m still working towards that goal. This sport has brought me so much joy and happiness through the people I’ve met, the opportunities I’ve had, and the memories I’ve created that can never be erased.”
First Year on Varsity
This year, Sophia not only joined the Northwest varsity team as an eighth grader, she became the starting pitcher.
“I was a bit nervous, but more excited,” she says. “I knew what I was coming into with the amazing players and coaching staff, and they made me feel welcomed and at home right when I stepped on the field.”
She adds that the older players, especially catcher Kaylee Cords, played a significant role in helping her adjust to the team.
“Kaylee made me feel welcome from day one. Both of us were super excited to work together and achieve success! All of the upperclassmen are amazing softball players but even better people. They really helped me feel welcomed at Northwest!”
Following her teammates’ advice to be herself and just play her game, Sophia led the Wolves to a 33-7 regular season with ticket punched to the state tournament.
“The relationship I have with the team is not something ordinary. We are a very tight-knit group of girls and all love playing with one another. We are always pushing each other to become the best,” she says. “When I’m doing my part on the mound, creating energy and intensity, it rubs off on the rest of the team!”
Advice for Aspiring Athletes
For younger athletes wanting to be successful in a sport, Sophia offers this advice: “Nothing is given; everything is earned. You have to work super hard and believe in yourself. Set goals for yourself and just have fun while playing because you never know when it will be your last time.”
As Sophia and the Wolves reach the end of their season, she has high hopes for the state tournament — and for her remaining four years of varsity softball.
