Julia Cottrill’s journey from backyard competitor to professional softball player has been shaped by a lifetime of familial support and relentless determination. Long before she stepped onto collegiate fields, Cottrill honed her skills amidst spirited games in the backyard of her grandparents’ Wichita home. Surrounded by 11 cousins, she embraced every challenge—from basketball showdowns to lively Wiffle Ball matches—that forged her competitive spirit.
Reflecting on those early days, Cottrill credits her family for instilling the unwavering grit that defines her approach to the game today. “Everything was a challenge back then,” she reminisces, “and that’s what instilled the fight and grit in me. I’m just so competitive—I want to win every pitch of every game, and I think I got that from my family.”
Her journey through collegiate softball was nothing short of remarkable, spanning powerhouse programs in the SEC and Big 12 conferences. From the University of Florida to Oklahoma State University and finally Texas A&M, Cottrill’s talent as an All-American catcher shone bright, culminating in a stellar season marked by nine home runs and 45 RBIs. Her achievements paved the way for a professional debut that uniquely brought her back to Wichita, where she now competes in the Athletes Unlimited Pro Softball AUX season.
Returning home has been a poignant experience for Cottrill, particularly playing in front of her grandfather, Grier Jones—a revered figure in Wichita sports circles. A former NCAA champion golfer and PGA Tour veteran, Jones’ influence on Cottrill’s athletic journey has been profound. “He was my best friend growing up,” she fondly recalls. “He took me everywhere, from baseball games to lessons, always pushing me to be better.”
Cottrill’s father, Jeff Cottrill, himself a prominent figure in softball coaching, further nurtured her passion for the sport. His tenure at Oklahoma State and current role at Missouri underscored the importance of diligence and dedication in her development. “My grandpa’s work ethic was legendary,” she reflects. “He was at the golf course every day, and that commitment taught me the value of hard work.”
Despite relocating to Stillwater during high school, Cottrill’s roots in Wichita remain deep. Her freshman year at Andover Central High School set the stage for a stellar career, attracting national attention and culminating in her leadership on Team USA’s gold-winning squad at the WBSC U-19 Women’s Softball World Cup.
Now a professional athlete in her hometown, Cottrill finds herself competing alongside the world’s best, a surreal yet gratifying experience. “I’m playing with some of the best players in the world,” she marvels. “It’s such an honor to be back in Wichita where it all started. This city has always supported me, and it will always be home.”
Beyond the thrill of professional success, Cottrill cherishes the simple joys of reconnecting with family. Reunited with her grandparents, she treasures the moments spent at their home, relishing the wisdom and encouragement her grandfather imparts. “It’s been amazing,” she shares. “Grandma and Grandpa are still my biggest fans, and being here with them means everything.”
As she continues to excel on the field and inspire others with her journey, Julia Cottrill remains rooted in gratitude for her family’s unwavering support and the community that shaped her into the player—and the person—she is today.
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