Jada Speed ’26 steps up to the batter’s box and silence falls across the field. Digging her cleats into the ground, she swings her bat and a loud ringing of her metal bat can be heard across the field.
Speed has been playing softball for over 10 years. Originally a cheerleader, she switched to softball and became consumed by it, following in her older sister’s footsteps, eventually evolving into an impactful player on the softball team.
“I started off doing cheer because of my older sister. We all did cheer, but then I ended up quitting to play softball because my older sister played softball. I kind of just followed in her footsteps with playing softball,” said Speed.
Over the years, softball has become much more than a competition, rather a way to build relationships and learn for Speed. The relationships she has formed with her teammates have been one of the most meaningful parts of the sport.
“We always love hanging out with each other outside of the sport,” said Speed. “ I feel like just having that kind of tightknit group always helps us have fun on the field.”
Speed joined the Princeton High School softball team in her freshman year. Initially, she split her time between JV and Varsity. Later on, her unique abilities quickly stood out, earning her a full-time spot on the varsity team. Since then, she has found success, having a high .275 batting average overall and hitting .362 last year, the second highest on the team.
Marrissa Soprano, head coach of the softball team, spoke highly of Speed’s performance. Soprano was very quick to point out her offensive abilities, which have helped to establish her as a key member of the lineup.
“Jada plays travel softball, so that really helps. When she first came in, she was a strong player already, which was great,” said Soprano. “Her strength has always been hitting, so we were very excited for her to join the program and be a very solid hitter for us in the lineup.”
One of Speed’s strengths is her ability to deliver at the plate. As a strong hitter, she has hit multiple home runs for the team in the past seasons, providing some of the most exhilarating moments for her team, herself, and her coaches.
“She’s hit some home runs for us, and that is always very exciting when she’s able to hit over the fence,” said Soprano.
Throughout her four years of playing for PHS, Speed has continued to improve as a player, a teammate, and a leader. As a senior, she is now part of a group of experienced players who help guide the younger players and set expectations for the team.
“She is part of a big group of girls that have played off for years, so it’s been fun to see them all get better at their skills,” said Soprano. “Also to be good examples for underclassmen, and showing them what to do, like conducting themselves on the team.”
Teammates have also highlighted her leadership skills as one of her strengths.
“Jada brings a lot of laughs to the team. She is a force to be reckoned with. So she brings a lot of fun, fun energy, just because people are motivated by her,” said Simryn Patel ’26, who has played with Jada since their freshman year.
While Speed’s presence on the PHS softball team definitely left a mark, her final season is colored by a complex blend of emotions. While she is ready to continue playing softball into her fourth season of high school, it will be bittersweet leaving behind the group that has shaped her as a player.
“Oh, definitely really sad because it’s my senior season, so I’m leaving the best group of girls behind,” said Speed.
Looking ahead, Speed hopes to continue playing softball after graduating high school.
“I definitely see myself trying to play in college,” said Speed.