Meet Ashley Charters

Meet the USSSA Prides newest team member, Ashley Charters. Charters graduated from the University of Washington where she was a three time All-American and helped her team win the programs first National Championship in 2009.

1. What was your motivation to decide to play with the NPF team USSSA Pride?

I believe that the future of softball is in the NPF and I wanted to do my part in helping it grow. I think that eventually little girls will dream to play in the NPF if we all do our jobs now.

2. What was it like winning a National Championship? After you won what was the first thing that crossed your mind?

Winning the National Championship was one of the best feelings in the world. I will never forget those last three outs. I had to keep myself in the moment and remember to breathe. Once the final out was called, I just couldn’t believe it. There were so many emotions mixed into one. Its such a hard feeling to describe, but I will never forget it. The first thing that crossed my mind was that we finally did it. We finally got the first National Championship for our program, something that will never be taken away.

3. What was one of your fondest memories of softball growing up?

I think my fondest memories were playing for my dad. He coached me from the time I started playing softball until I left for college. We had some great moments together. Playing in the Little League World Series. Playing in the High School State Championship. He has always been there for me to offer help and support in any way that he could both on and off the field.

4. If you could give advice to young women growing up who want to play college softball what would you say?

I would say to love every minute. Have so much fun with the people around you because you never know when it can be taken away. There will never be another time like this. Never take it for granted.

5. What is your favorite pre game meal?

Hmmm…for the most part I will eat anything. I’m not a picky eater but if I could have it my way, I would have my mom’s lasagna before every game. Yep, it’s that good.

6. What is one of your favorite quotes?

“Life is a Journey, not a destination.” Ralph Waldo Emerson