Olivia Ramirez is a pitcher for the LBCC softball team who helped bring her team to victory 27 times this season. She has exhibited grit and relentlessness to overcome injuries, become a leader in the clubhouse, and is labeled one of the captains for the Vikings.
“I love seeing the outcome of hard work,” Ramirez said in regard to what motivates her.
Softball seemed like a natural choice to Ramirez due to her vocal personality.
“I’m a pretty vocal person, so I believe that softball was my calling,” Ramirez said while recalling her stint as a golfer.
The LBCC coaching staff has influenced her progress in softball and beyond.
“They actually care and are here to help us,” Ramirez said. “They believe in us, they show up for us on a level that’s even bigger than just softball. If you need anything, they are there for you.”
Coach Fa Leilua has become a role model to Ramirez. Her straightforward coaching style has made an impact on Ramirez’s transition from high school to college.
“I wasn’t ready to transition to a four-year university. I think being here definitely prepared me and makes me want to go to a four-year school,” Ramirez said when asked of LBCC’s influence on her athletic career. “She won’t tell me what I want to hear, but instead, what I need to hear.”
Her father, who attends home games in his lucky seat in the top row on the far left of the bleachers, has been a role model to Ramirez.
“Just like me, my dad has had a lot of injuries and has been through some surgeries. He has a lot of perseverance,” Ramirez said.
Ramirez is also a youth softball coach in her spare time. She plans on playing softball at the highest level. But also has her sights set on a career that goes beyond the playing field. She plans on earning a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a master’s in sports psychology.
To LBCC infielder Jennifer Aguilar, Ramirez’s leadership is a natural for her personality, “Olivia is very hardworking and has the traits of a great leader, it’s no wonder that she’s a coach.”