Summer in Bartlesville feels a little different when you see it through the eyes of Lady Bruins softball standout Madie Nachbor. For the rising senior, the season doesn’t begin with a date on the calendar, but with a feeling of freedom as she wraps up another school year and shifts her focus fully to long days, late nights and the work it takes to chase her softball dreams. “Summer officially starts for me the moment I walk out of school on the last day.”
That first step out of the building launches a busy stretch where softball and time with friends blend into a routine that rarely slows down. Madie balances a part-time job with her commitment to the game, keeping a schedule that reflects her goals at the next level. “My summer schedule is pretty busy. I work about 25 hours a week at night with softball workouts and summer league games in the mornings.” The early games and training sessions set the tone for a senior year she hopes will include a college commitment. “I’m going into my senior year and this year I hope to commit to a college to play softball at the next level.”
Even with a packed softball calendar, Madie carves out space for the small summer moments that make memories with teammates and friends. One of her go-to activities this year is a sport that has exploded in popularity and fits perfectly into those warm evenings. “A must do activity for this summer is going out with friends and playing pickle ball.” When the sun goes down, the fun doesn’t stop. “The best nighttime activity during the summer is pickleball and late-night drives with friends.” Those drives often turn into impromptu hangouts, with music turning the car into its own summer venue. “I’ll probably spend the most time in my car with my best friends and teammates listening to the Red Hot Chili Peppers.”
Every busy summer needs its own flavor, and Madie leans into the season with a few favorites. “A must have drink of the summer is the Juicy Peach Alani.” When it comes to dessert, her choice is simple and classic. “Chocolate ice cream because it’s the best flavor.” Away from the field and the familiar roads around Bartlesville, she looks forward to time with family as a yearly highlight. “The best part of summer for me is our family vacations we take each year.”
Through it all, Madie keeps her focus on improving and setting the tone for Bartlesville softball as she heads into her final high school season. Her message to her teammates fits the way she attacks each day of summer, balancing fun with purpose. “My message to my teammates is to put in hard work and push yourself to your full potential no matter what.”
