EMMA OWENS’ passion for softball didn’t stem from any particular event — it was ingrained in her by her mother, who had played throughout high school. Owens was fascinated by the distant sounds of her mother’s cheers and the stories she shared about her time as a softball player, and she began to flourish on the dusty softball fields at her middle school. There, the entire world condensed to the size of the infield, and the sound of the bat connecting with the ball was like a beautiful symphony to her ears.
Owens, a recent graduate, isn’t just celebrating her diploma. This bright young athlete is taking her talents to the collegiate level, inspired by her two supportive parents and pure love for softball.
Her softball journey started with the influence of her mom, who played through high school. Inspired by her mother’s love for the game, she discovered her own passion in middle school, which developed through travel ball and high school.
Owens’ athleticism isn’t limited to softball. She balanced it with basketball until her junior year and dabbled in track. But it was on the softball field where she truly found her home. Her achievements include a freshman home run, rookie of the year honors, All-District recognition, and a well-deserved district defensive player of the year title in her senior year.

While Owens’ defensive skills, particularly her speed and ability to snag amazing catches, were a highlight, her contributions to Franklin County High School’s team were far more extensive than the scoreboard. She describes herself as a goofy teammate, a source of encouragement, and someone who always strived to keep the team spirit high.
TJ, Emma’s father, radiates with pride as he recounts watching his daughter develop into a phenomenal athlete.
“She’s a petite, fast player. She would slide into home base and pop back up on her feet,” TJ explained. “She’s very fast. She can cover a lot of ground, and she could make some unbelievable catches. That’s why she won district defensive player of the year — because of some of the defensive plays she made in the outfield.”
From her enthusiasm on the basepaths to her knack for reading fly balls, he cherishes every memory of her defensive skills. The district defensive player of the year award is evidence of her agility, undeniable skill, and talent.
Emma is an avid learner on and off the field. Math and science are her favorite subjects, and she plans to major in physical therapy in college. She was officially accepted into Motlow State Community College and can’t contain her excitement to connect with new friends and embark on this new chapter of her life.

Emma finds inspiration in softball players like Ashtyn Danley, her former middle school softball teammate who now plays for the Florida State Seminoles, and professional baseball outfielder Ronald Acuña Jr., whose talent is undeniable. Danley is a talented athlete who exudes kindness and knowledge and has exceptional skills. Acuña Jr. and Danley’s journeys motivate her to improve constantly.
Emma said, “In middle school, I played with Ashtyn. She’s really nice, and she knows a lot about the game. And she’s really good and just amazing to watch.”
TJ added, “She’s very encouraging, uplifting, and upbeat. She would instill confidence in all of her teammates, and she never gloated about being the best player on the team.”
Although TJ felt a touch of sadness as Emma’s high school softball journey came to an end, his pride overshadowed everything. With Emma’s graduation approaching, the family was uncertain about her future in collegiate softball.

However, they decided to proactively reach out to Motlow State coaches and submit her film, which paid off. Emma is all set to begin her collegiate journey in the fall semester of 2024. Her signing day on June 12 was a moment of joy and celebration for her and the entire family. The thought of Emma’s collegiate opportunity fills her dad with overwhelming emotion, and he looks forward to supporting her in this exciting new chapter.
He said, “I was afraid that her softball career was over, and as a 42-year-old grown man, I cried. I’m so proud that she’s going to the next level, and they’re accepting of her to play on their team. I can’t wait to watch it.”
As Emma begins her next journey, the softball community undoubtedly joins the Owens family in wishing her the very best. As she steps onto the field at Motlow State Community College, Emma carries with her the hopes and dreams of a small-town girl with big ambitions. The entire Franklin County community looks forward to cheering her on as she continues to chase her dreams and make her mark on the softball world. GN