Championship Reflections: Erin Miller

I think at some point in each of our lives, we have a pivotal moment that shapes our perspective. In that moment, we experience a culmination of some of the most important realizations— our passions, strengths, deeper meanings or epiphanies. Although I could categorize the majority of my four-year career at OU as that "pivotal moment", I believe our 2016 national championship holds its own importance.

When I reflect on that experience, there are so many memories that surface. I remember the long journey and absolute GRIND to get to that WCWS stage. There was not a single day during offseason or regular season that didn't include some sort of effort to move the needle closer to a championship.

"It wasn't just the title. It was the fact that we had completed our mission. We did what we set out to do, and then some."
- Erin Miller

I also reflect on the amount of emotional management it took to function under that type of pressure. I have never been so aware of my thoughts and physical response to pressure IN MY LIFE! The amount of mental and emotional maturity from that week of softball has been monumental in my adult life. Just imagine… over 10,000 people in the stands. Every single game was the most important game you've played all year. In my case, as a senior, each at bat could've been your last.

My entire career felt like it was sitting on my shoulders. All the while, you're trying to enjoy the moment and soak it in! There is a reason champions require a certain mindset and approach. Because, the bigger the stage, the more emotional maturity it requires! I am thankful that I have such a better understanding on how to handle big moments. If it were easy, everyone would be doing it.

I remember so well that feeling after walking off that field. The euphoria. The "on top of the world" feeling that only sports can provide. It was a feeling that I can hardly put into words.

What I appreciate most about that championship was the tools that it provided and sharpened in each player. We ended that season willing and able to tackle anything that was to come next. As a senior, I felt confident and poised to step into the next chapter of my life.

I distinctly remember after holding up the national championship trophy, Coach Gasso and I did our on camera interview with ESPN and Holly Rowe. After that interview I hugged Coach as tightly as I possibly could. I remember being completely overwhelmed with gratitude during that hug to the point of speechless tears.

Although our 2016 national championship was the pivotal "moment" in life… there is only one reason I am the woman I am today — Patty Gasso. My relationship with Coach is worth more than any championship I've ever been part of.

Boomer Sooner!

Erin Miller
2016 National Champion

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