May 6, 2020
Evensville, TN -- Brooke Tidwell is daughter of Nickie & David Tidwell and has sister Parker Tidwell. She has played softball for 12 years, primarily playing second and first base. She was a cheerleader in middle school. This senior softball season at Rhea County High School lasted for one regular season game before season was cancelled due to covid-19 shutdown. Brooke took time to answer some questions about her time at Rhea County High School and her personal and softball life.
What was your favorite softball moment?
"My favorite softball memories are all the conversations in the locker/ bus rides before games."
Who was your favorite teacher during your school years and why?
"My favorite teacher,out of all my years of school, is Angie King at DCS. She inspired me to choose my future career as a elementary education teacher. She truly goes above and beyond for her students, and she left a lasting impression on my heart."
What are your plans after high school?
"I plan to attend Bryan College and pursue a degree in elementary education."
What are your hobbies and interests outside of sports?
"I love to paint and bake in the free time I have from softball."
Who is your favorite athlete you followed growing up if any?
"My favorite athlete I have followed through my years as a softball player is Raven Chavanne. My dad had her come to a practice once and give us all hitting advice. I’ll never forget, she told us she missed her senior prom for a softball tournament, and now i’m missing my senior prom and senior season."
Why do you love most about softball and what do you like the least?
"What I love most about softball is the lesson of responsibility. From keeping up with all your uniform stuff and equipment to making sure you’re on time, it really follows you outside of softball and teaches you to manage your time and be organized. What I love the least is how you get older and softball is no longer your hobby; it really becomes a job. Although my passion for the game kept it fun, some days it does feel like a chore."
What was the impact of losing your senior softball season and last part of your senior year?
"Although losing these memories was heartbreaking, it really has made me more grateful for the memories I did get to make. I am sad to not have finished my senior season, but I enjoy the few games we did get to play. You cannot take your cleats on the dirt for granted. You never know when it will be your last time on the field."