University of South Carolina Aiken Athletics

Life is full of twists, turns and many challenges. Not many people can attest to that like junior Jessica Stanley.

The 5-2 utility player has faced many obstacles in her life, yet she continues to persevere. No matter how many off-speed pitches she’s thrown, Stanley stays strong in the batter’s box and life.

At an early age, playing softball was a family affair. Her mother and father would pitch to her for hours.

Before she was 10 years old, Stanley’s mother passed away. At the time, she did not understand it. Growing up without her mother was tough, but it also brought her and her father even closer together.

Stanley describes the two as best friends. Even today, her father will work with her relentlessly on her game.

She started her playing career at USC Aiken but left after her freshman season. Stanley enrolled at Spartanburg Methodist and thrived. However, something was pulling her away from the game that she was so passionate about virtually her entire life.

Stanley took a year off of softball and worked. Knowing she was still young enough to play and earn a degree, she knew she wanted to do both. It did not take long for her to realize that she wanted to come back to USC Aiken.