Righteous Rebel

In 2021, just six weeks after welcoming my second little miracle, Alex, into the world, I found myself doing something I never imagined: joining a kickball team. And let me tell you — I was terrified. I had never played a sport in my life. I didn’t know the rules, I didn’t know the moves, and honestly, I wasn’t sure I even belonged. But my husband, Cody, leaned over one day and whispered, “Just go for it.” And somehow, that was all the permission I needed. (Thanks, Cody. You’re the real MVP.)

From the very first practice, the team welcomed me with open arms. They laughed with me, taught me, encouraged me, and reminded me that everyone starts somewhere. Did I make mistakes that first season? Absolutely. Did I trip over bases, kick the ball in the wrong direction, or accidentally run into a teammate? Yes, yes, and yes. But none of that mattered because I was part of something bigger — a team that believed in lifting each other up, celebrating wins, and laughing at the chaos along the way.

And oh, the escapes! Even when I was nervous about stepping onto the field, I found freedom and joy in the game. My second season was a true test of resilience: I broke my pinky, fractured my nose, and even suffered a concussion. Yes, you read that right. I’m basically a superhero now—or at least a very clumsy one. But through all the bruises, swelling, and questionable looks from strangers who probably thought I had lost my mind, I kept showing up. I learned to push through fear, trust my teammates, and embrace mistakes as part of the journey. Those challenges made every victory, every high-five, and every clumsy kick that much sweeter.

Over the past four years, I’ve played eight seasons — two seasons a year — and our team has won five of them! Tournament wins, fierce plays, late-night celebrations — it’s been an incredible ride. And yet, trophies and medals are just part of the story. This past weekend, we played in another tournament. We didn’t take home the trophy, but we won something even bigger: the reminder that we are a team of greatness. Together, we laugh, we fight, we support each other, and we show up — every single time. Winning in our hearts is what matters most.

Being a military spouse comes with unique challenges, especially when it comes to making friends. People come and go, moves happen, and routines change. But the Rebels became my sisters, my support system, and my safe place. Over the years, I’ve had the joy of meeting new Rebels, welcoming fresh energy to the team, and saying goodbye to some of the OG Rebels who will always hold a special place in my heart. Each season has been a gift, a reminder of the incredible friendships that form when you take a leap into the unknown. These women have become lifelong friends — the kind you can laugh with, cry with, and lean on no matter what life throws your way.

Joining the Rebels was never just about playing kickball. It’s been about proving to myself that fear doesn’t get to call the shots, about finding joy in unexpected places, about discovering strength I didn’t know I had. It’s about learning that mistakes are just stepping stones, injuries are temporary, and laughter, camaraderie, and love last forever.

So here’s to being a righteous rebel — stepping onto the field with courage, making mistakes, surviving injuries, celebrating victories, cherishing the time with teammates, and knowing that the real win is in the friendships, the memories, and the bonds that last a lifetime. I’m grateful for every season, every game, every teammate, and every moment spent as a Rebel. And Cody, thank you for whispering those magic words: “Just go for it.” Because without them, I wouldn’t be here — bruised, laughing, and loving every second of it.

I can’t wait until next season to do it all over again!

Cheers to all my fellow Rebels — I love all of you! 💖