Hi Myla. We're so excited to hear about the sports you love. What sports are you involved in?

I love martial arts, soccer, and softball. I currently attend Dave Hopkin's Kung Fu and participate in the Orangecrest Softball League. I have also taken swimming lessons at Orangecrest Swim School for the last two years so I can learn to swim independently.

When did you start playing sports?

I have been playing sports since I was 4 years old, except for softball. I started softball last year and fell in love with it. I am not crazy about rough physical touch, like flag football, basketball, or soccer. Softball is just a perfect sport, where I don't have to worry about aggressive players coming toward me. I am more into playing cooperatively with players by throwing balls to each other, swinging a bat, and running.

Tell us about your favorite moment or memory from playing sports.

My favorite moment was when I learned there were three deaf players on the Orangecrest Softball team. My mom called and asked to see if I could join at the last minute. Luckily, they had a room for me to join. There was a volunteer grandparent (CODA) interpreter to help interpret for us. This was so important, especially with my very first experience playing softball. Surprisingly, we won the championship with a beautiful ring and trophy! I am so happy I am continuing this in the second season. Kung Fu is also my favorite sport. It teaches me how to be strong and defend myself. Not just that, but the place I go to, Dave Hopkin's, is one of the warmest, family-owned martial arts places where it makes me feel like I am at home.

How do you balance schoolwork and sports?

I  have a full day of school from 8 am-2:30 pm. I come home to do homework and then get ready for practice or games. I am thankful for having weekends where I can rest and refuel my energy to continue the new week.

Are there any specific values or life lessons you’ve gained from your involvement in sports?

When I learned I have celiac, we discovered it takes me 5 years to recover my gut. I learned how huge a difference it is to exercise. It helps speed up my recovery. Really, exercise is very important for everyone. I always come home feeling great after exercise. This also helps build my strength so it feels good when I feel stronger as I  grow.

Have you had any favorite coaches?

My mom was a coach for me when I was on the soccer team under the City of Riverside Park and Recreation. It was fun seeing my mom coaching. For softball, I really enjoy the experience of meeting new coaches each season with most of the new players. Few were the same from the last season so it feels good to see them again, too!

What are your future goals with sports?

I will always want to continue kung fu and softball. I hope I can win the softball championship again!

What advice would you give other aspiring young athletes in the neighborhood?

It is always important to exercise because it is good for your health.

If your friends wanted to play sports too, where should they go?

Orangecrest softball league is very hard to get in. It seems to be very popular. If your child is very serious about softball, apply to that league. If your child wants to try new sports, I would start with the City of Riverside Park and Recreation first. Dave Hopkins' is the best place to learn martial arts. It's a huge place where you can run around. They even offer some fun night events occasionally. It's a very warm family-owned business.