Addisen Fisher, a native of Bend, Oregon, has been making waves in the softball world from a young age.
Growing up surrounded by the beauty of central Oregon, Fisher’s journey into softball began as a kid, playing catch with her dad in the yard. Despite dabbling in various sports, softball captured Fisher’s heart early on.
“It’s something about getting all dolled up with a bow in your hair and then diving into the dirt for three hours,” Fisher recalls fondly, highlighting the sport’s blend of femininity and grit that appealed to her.
Fisher’s dedication to softball became apparent as she progressed through her early years. By the time she reached sixth grade, she knew she wanted to pursue the sport seriously. Known for her tenacity and determination, Fisher’s drive to succeed pushed her forward.
Her hard work paid off when she clinched the Gatorade Player of the Year title, not once but twice as a freshman and sophomore in high school—an achievement that brought both accolades and pressure. Despite the expectations, Fisher remained grounded, emphasizing humility and the importance of enjoying the game.
“It can be easy to let big accomplishments go to your head. I’ve always just been taught to be humble. But more than anything, there was a lot of pressure just because everybody’s expecting you to be amazing all the time,” said Fisher.
Fisher recently finished her senior year of high school and will soon begin her next chapter at UCLA, joining a lineage of renowned pitchers. She committed to UCLA during her junior year of high school. Despite the pressure to perform at such a prestigious program, Fisher embraced the challenge, viewing it as an opportunity to prove herself among the best.
“There is a lot of pressure just being a pitcher and coming in behind Megan Framo, Rachel Garcia, Taylor Tinsley, and even KT, who are there right now. It is a lot of pressure just to earn your spot, and you know, uphold the expectation of the UCLA pitching staff and like the greatness that has been carried on, you know, throughout the years even since Lisa Fernandez, but again, like it’s a different kind of pressure. It’s awesome, and I’m so grateful to have that opportunity, “ said Fisher.
Beyond her journey, Fisher recognizes the broader impact of women’s sports on empowering athletes. She acknowledges the advocacy needed to elevate female athletes’ visibility and the strides made by trailblazers in various sports, particularly in college basketball, which has sparked a movement for equitable treatment.
As she reflects on her path, Fisher offers wisdom to aspiring young athletes: “Have fun. Remember, it’s just a game.” Balancing her athletic pursuits with academic excellence—a testament to her 4.1 GPA—Fisher embodies the spirit of determination and grace both on and off the field. “I’m very hard on myself. So, if I’m doing anything less than awesome on the field and off the field in the classroom, I will definitely beat myself up. In the classroom, it’s more of just doing what I have to do. I always knew that it’s important to get good grades, to be able to open more opportunities for you to go to college,” said Fisher.
Behind the scenes, Fisher’s family plays a pivotal role in her journey. Her father served as a mediator during tense moments. Her supportive family has provided a nurturing environment where she thrives.
“She really has motivated herself. She’s a beast. She really is, but you know I’m proud of her for her softball accomplishments and academic accomplishments, but I’m even more proud of her for the human being that she’s become,” said Fisher’s father.
As Fisher embarks on her collegiate career, she remains focused on honing her skills, embracing challenges, and making a lasting impact on and off the softball diamond. With her unwavering determination and passion for the game, Fisher is poised to shine and be an inspiration for aspiring athletes everywhere.
