Varsity softball player Emma Ray is a freshman this season for the Lady Reds. Ray also participates in FFA, Key Club, and plays golf. 

“I first got involved with 4-H when I was in third grade. I started showing broiler chickens that year too. I began my first year of FFA last year because it was the first year, I was able to do it,” Ray said. “My parents put me in 4-H so that later on I could show animals and be involved in FFA.” 

Being a member of the FFA program is something Ray truly enjoys. 

“What I enjoy most about being in FFA is getting to go to all the fairs and shows with my friends and family and it is also a great feeling to win against my sister who shows chickens with me. I am involved in showing animals, shooting sports, and we enter projects into the state fair. I am also working towards my Greenhand Degree,” said Ray. 

Ray plays first base and pitches for the softball team. The freshman said her season is going well and she loves being around her teammates. 

“My season is going good so far. I missed my eighth grade year due to having knee surgery so I am just happy to be back on the field,” Ray said. “What I love most about my teammates is that they help me raise my attitude when I am having a bad game, they have good sportsmanship, and they are good people. I am extremely lucky to play with Addyson Littke and Rhylee Rodebush. Not only are they good teammates but they are great friends. They were some of the first people to welcome me to Clinton when I transferred from Cordell.” 

Ray offers this advice to anyone interested in FFA. 

“I would tell them that they should join FFA because we do a lot of enjoyable things and you learn a lot of life lessons. FFA also teaches you leadership skills.”