USA Softball #19 – Amanda Chidester
At UofM: Two-time Big Ten Player of the Year (2011, 2012), Two-time NFCA All-American (2009, 2011), Michigan’s Big Ten Medal of Honor Winner (2012)
www.chiddysoftball.com
I first met Amanda Chidester at a Common Bond basketball game – she had come to cheer on one of the team members (Shelby). I don’t remember whether the team did well that day,and it really doesn’t matter, what stands out in my mind is the time spent with Amanda after the game. Chit chat? Sure. But she also took the time to shoot some hoops with Shelby and Riley. A little trash talk, a lot of laughs, and my first impression of Amanda as a sweet, down to earth, every day girl. I was thrilled when she agreed to this interview.
Amanda is from Allen Park, Michigan, and attended school at St. Francis Cabrini from 2nd through 12th grade. She will tell you with enthusiasm how much she loved the small school atmosphere, and wearing the uniform every day! With an early love for sports, Amanda played basketball, softball and volleyball starting in 5th grade – and her favorite sport growing up was always basketball.
A deep love and respect for family is very apparent in everything Amanda says and does. Amanda has four brothers, and she is the middle child. With three cousins recently added to her family, the Chidester household is well packed when everyone is home! When asked about her parents, Amanda states, “My parents are two of the greatest people in the world. They will drop anything and everything for us kids. They have always taught us that we can do anything we put our minds to!! They truly have supported my brothers and I through every part of our lives”. Oh, and her beloved Jack Russel Terrier (the best dog ever according to Amanda), is named Mac.
Currently, Amanda is finishing up her student teaching, at the conclusion of which she will have a Bachelor of Science in Physical Education with a Minor in Health. While student teaching, she also helps out with the University of Michigan softball team as a student assistant, and gives hitting lessons to aspiring softball players. Amanda says, “Giving lessons has been truly one of the best experiences. I have been able to meet and work with so many amazing people.”
What do aspiring young athletes want to know about a Team USA Softball player? I wasn’t sure, so I decided to turn the interview over to three of them.
Expert Panel of young interviewers:
Q: (Riley) What was the deciding factor in your choice to attend UofM?
A: I have always loved Michigan softball! Everything about their program and Campus I loved. I think what made my final decision was when I was 13 and Hutch called me Chiddy at camp. I thought that was the coolest thing ever that she knew my nickname!
Q: (Riley) What led you to choose softball over basketball for your college sport?
A: I remember thinking how much I loved being outside more than in a hot sweaty gym. I was also better at softball than basketball even though I always like basketball more.
Q: (Shelby) I’m 11 years old, I want to play ball in college. What advice would you give me and my parents to help me reach this goal?
A: I would say to keep working hard. It is so important to get on a travel ball team where you know they are in exposure tournaments with colleges coming to watch. It is also important to go to camps and introduce yourself to the coaches after and thank them. It is important to remember it is just a game. It is meant for us to enjoy and have fun. Parents need to be encouraging towards the girls in every way possible. For example if I had a bad game my parents would never tell me what I did wrong and what I could have done better. They would always say “did you give it your best effort? Sometimes we just have bad days.” Later on they may have talked to me about what I could work on, but after the game they were always supportive and I think that was huge for me. I knew I had their support and love no matter how I performed which to me was huge. I also think it is so important to play other sports. When I was in another sport I stuck to that sport and committed my time and energy into it. I would play softball usually once a week with my travel team if I could, but if I didn’t make it I never stressed over it. Also always be open to learn. You never know everything, take as much advice and instruction as you can.
Q: (Shelby) How do you balance school and sports?
A: For me balancing the two was not as hard because I sacrificed my social life. I would go to school then to practice and go straight home for dinner. Shortly after dinner I would start homework and then go to bed. I had a routine and I stuck with it. My parents were there to always help me in any way they could. If I needed to stay up late to do work my mom or dad at times would stay up with me to get it done. It was very hard and stressful at times, but I loved sports so it was worth it. I had goals and big dreams that I was dedicated to and motivated to reach.
Q: (Kylie) Was it more challenging playing sports and balancing your schedule when you were younger (middle school, highschool) or now that you’re on the USA team?
A: It is hard to say because when I look back I think high school and middle school were easy, but at the time it was really difficult. I do not think there is ever a time where it is EASY! You have to embrace the challenge. Many people give up because “it is to HARD” It is hard, that is what makes it so great and that is why so many people do not make it to the high levels.
Q: (Shelby) Have your parents played a role in your success? If so, how?
A: Every way you could imagine. They are the reason I am where I am today. They are the reason I am the way I am. They have always done what was best for me whether I agreed with them or not. They paid for all of my sports, school, traveling, and the list can go on and on.
Q: (Shelby) Currently you are playing for Team USA. Where do you see yourself 5 years, 10 years from now? (playing, coaching, teaching?)
A: I see myself either finishing up playing or coming close to it. I see myself coaching for a great University. I also see myself putting on camps and events for young players to help them in any way that I can!
Q: (Kylie) What is your current training schedule like?
A: Right now it has been pretty crazy because of my student teaching. I wake up at 6am to go workout, come home get ready for student teaching, leave straight to softball practice, then I will stay after and hit or I would go give lessons, and come home to bed.
Q: (Riley) What would you say was your most embarrassing moment in sports?
A: I have had way to many!!
Q: (Riley) What is a moment you are most proud of?
A: When I made the USA team I knew I was up against some of the top players of the game. It was the first time I have ever had to sit multiple games. I was the pinch hitter and pinch runner. I knew I needed to earn my spot and prove I could be in the line up. I was determined to have a starting spot in the line up by the last tournament. I worked hard and was able to do it. I think I ended up starting the last 8 games we played.
Q: (Riley) If you had to live your life over again, is there anything you would choose to do differently?
A: Hmm I am not sure. I would be more confident in my playing abilities.
Q: What motivates you to go the extra mile, in sports and in life?
A: I want to make a difference. I want to have an impact on people’s lives. The little things in my eyes go such a long way. I want to help girls realize failing is ok. I want to help them realize if they truly want it bad enough they can do whatever they put their minds to! I want people to truly believe in themselves.
Q: What is your most cherished family tradition? Why is it important?
A: I have so many family traditions! I think my favorite is going to cut down the Christmas tree the day after Thanksgiving. I love our family traditions, and my parents have done such a great job of keeping them alive. Even though we are all older, we still wake up Christmas morning and go in my parents room and wait for my dad to get his camera ready so when we come out of the room he can be taping us from the very start.
Q: What is the best advice you have ever received?
A: I have had some very influential people in my life. From my parents, to my grandma, my high school softball coach, and my college softball coach. To leave you with one specific moment. There was a time I had to give a speech in front of a lot of people and I was soooo nervous. Hutch told me if I spoke from my heart then there was no way I could mess it up. That has stuck with me ever since I gave that speech, and anytime I have to speak I always think that!!
Passionate. Caring. Fun. These are the three words Amanda gave me when I asked her to describe herself in three words. I would have to agree, they are perfect.
If you are interested in Softball clinics and training, be sure to keep an eye on Amanda’s new website: www.chiddysoftball.com.
