Davenport High School sophomore Briley Hauk is building her identity on and off the softball field through hard work, accountability and a strong sense of team.
Hauk, a 10th grader, credits her father as her biggest influence. “My dad is my inspiration,” she said. “He is the hardest worker that I know and has taught me that if I want something then I have to work for it. It’s not just going to be given to me.”
That mindset shows up in the classroom as well. Hauk said history is her favorite subject, and she appreciates the support she receives from teacher Mr. Case. “He always makes it a point to ask how my sports are going, and he’s also just a nice and funny guy,” she said.
On the field, Hauk emphasizes sportsmanship as the game’s most important unwritten rule. “It’s a rule that should follow you on and off the field,” she said.
A versatile player who favors second base, Hauk embraces both the challenge and responsibility of her role. “The hardest part of it is the pressure,” she said. “I never want to let my teammates down when I have a job to do.”
Her approach at the plate reflects her team-first mentality. “I look to see where my runners are and then how far up first and third are playing, then do a job,” Hauk said.
Hauk said the bond within the team is what she values most. “We’re not just playing for a team — we’re best friends and family,” she said. She also praised her teammates’ personalities, noting Nevah as the most vocal with constant encouragement and Kodi as the one who “never lets the opportunity pass to make someone laugh.”
Outside of softball, Hauk enjoys shopping, spending time with friends and competitive cheer and tumbling.
She said athletics has taught her lessons that extend beyond the game. “It’s taught me to work hard for things you really want and love,” Hauk said.
And if there is one teammate who leaves it all on the field, Hauk added with a smile, “Gabby definitely has the dirtiest uniform at the end of each game.”
