FIRECRACKERS DFW PLAYER SPOTLIGHT! UNCOMMITTED 2028 PITCHER ISELAH JOHNSON

20 minutes ago

5 min read

We’re excited to spotlight some of our athletes and introduce them both on and off the softball field! Below is our 6th edition spotlighting one of our 18U players from our Firecrackers DFW Martinez team!

Iselah Johnson - RHP Class of 2028

sportsrecruits.com

Iselah Johnson's Softball Recruiting Profile

Watch Iselah's recruiting video • 2028 • P, 1B, 2B • Firecrackers DFW - Martinez • Duncanville, TX • I am student at Duncanville HS, in the Collegiate Academy’s Health Science program with graduation year of 2028. I would love the opportunity to play softball at the collegiate level while continuing my studies in Health Science in order to become a pediatrician. I am a right-handed pitcher, play 1st/2nd base, with a strong bat. Softball has been an huge part of my life, and as a pitcher I’ve had many favorable and challenging moments. Softball has taught me the importance of mental toughness, as well as hard work and dedication in achieving my goals. It has also encouraged my vocalism, positivity, and teamwork, allowing me to become a leader by example. I am committed to continuing to improve my skills in order to play at the next level.

High School: Duncanville

Bats/Throws: Right/Right

Twitter/X Profile: https://x.com/Iselah_J_2028

Tell us a little about yourself and your softball journey.

My softball journey started when I was 8 years old. Growing up, my parents played slow pitch softball together, and I would always go watch them. One day on the drive back from their games, I randomly said I wanted to play too, and from there softball has been a huge part of our lives. Through softball, I have learned how to persevere through challenges, embrace failure as part of growth, and believe in myself even when things do not come easily. The game has shaped not only the athlete I am today, but also the person I am off the field. It has taught me discipline, resilience, and the value of hard work, while giving me some of my most meaningful friendships and memories. Looking back, it is crazy to think that one decision made by an 8 year old helped me discover a passion that has influenced nearly every part of my life and continues to push me to become the best version of myself.

What made you fall in love with softball?

When I was little, I had a lot of different interests, but nothing that I truly felt passionate about. While many of my friends seemed to have activities or talents that defined them, I felt like I was still searching for mine. That changed when I was introduced to softball. I wasn't good at it right away, but that became part of what made me fall in love with the game. From a young age, I learned that softball is a game that rewards growth, hard work, and perseverance. It showed me that I was capable of pushing myself to new heights and discovering abilities I never knew I had. The opportunity to improve, challenge myself, and uncover my potential is the reason I fell in love with softball and why I continue to love it today.

What do you consider your biggest strength on the field?

I would say my biggest strengths on the field are my mental toughness and analytical mindset as a pitcher. I know softball isn't always going to go my way, but I don't let one bad pitch or a hit define me. Even when I'm down in a count, I trust myself to fight back because I know good pitchers get hit hard sometimes, and that's okay. I also enjoy analyzing hitters, recognizing weaknesses in their swings, and using that information to make smarter decisions on the mound. I believe being able to stay mentally strong while thinking through the game gives me an advantage as a pitcher.

What part of your game are you working hardest to improve?

The part of my game I am working hardest to improve is my pitching as a whole. I am always looking to increase my velocity, develop more spin, improve my pitch locations, and get better at reading hitters. As I move up in competition, I know the hitters will only get stronger and more advanced, so I believe I should always be working to become a better pitcher than I was yesterday. I never want to get too comfortable with where I am because there is always room to grow.

Who has had the biggest influence on your softball career, and why?

My biggest influence on my softball career is without a doubt my mom. She has always been

there for me, from driving me to every game and picking me up afterward to making sure I get every opportunity to chase my dreams. But what I am most grateful for is that she has never forced me to love this game. She allowed me to discover my passion for softball on my own, and I honestly don't think I would cherish it as deeply as I do today if she hadn't. Instead of making softball feel like an obligation, she gave me the freedom to fall in love with it for myself. I know the long days, driving, and sacrifices aren't always easy, but she continues to show up for me, and that means more than I can explain. I wouldn't be where I am today without her, and no matter how far softball takes me, I will always be thankful that she has been by my side through it all.

What’s your favorite softball memory so far?

My favorite softball memory so far was my first time pitching in a select scrimmage. I remember being super nervous because it was our first scrimmage of the season, but when I went in I pitched 9 straight strikes and went 3 up 3 down. It was a great way to begin my pitching career and gave me lots of confidence to continue pitching.

What does being a great teammate mean to you?

To me, a good teammate is someone who treats others with kindness and uplifts their teammates. They celebrate everyone’s accomplishments and want everyone to succeed while also holding each other accountable. Overall, they are a good example and support their teammates win, lose, fail, or succeed.

What are your biggest goals for your high school and travel-ball career?

My biggest goal in softball is to earn the opportunity to play at the college level. I have always dreamed of continuing my softball career beyond high school, and I have worked hard both on the field and in the classroom to make that goal a reality. Being recruited would mean that all of the time, effort, and sacrifices made by both me and my family have paid off, and it would allow me to continue playing the game I love while pursuing my education.

What are you looking for in a college softball program?

I am looking for a college that will challenge me in the classroom and on the softball field, while allowing me to be apart of a supportive community. Since I have big dreams of becoming a doctor one day, finding a program with good academics is very important to me, but I also want to attend a school where I can continue playing the sport I love at a high level. I also want to be surrounded by people who are hardworking, motivated, and kind, and who encourage each other to be their best. Most of all, I am looking for a place that feels like home and will help me grow into the person I want to become later in life.

What do you want college coaches to know about you?

What I want college coaches to know about me is that, above all else, I strive to be a kind person. I believe that how you treat others matters just as much as what you accomplish. I try to be someone who encourages my teammates, leads by example, and brings a positive attitude wherever I go. While I am competitive and always working to improve, I never want to lose sight of the importance of supporting the people around me. Whether in the classroom, on the field, or in everyday life, I want to be known as someone who works hard, treats others with respect, and makes those around her feel valued.