Meet Lauren (Chamberlain) Gipson: Five Questions with Youth Inc.'s Softball Ambassador
Lauren (Chamberlain) Gipson is one of the greatest players in college softball history and held the NCAA career home run record from 2015-2022 with 95 blasts. A national champion at the University of Oklahoma, she was a four-time collegiate All American and a No. 1 overall NPF draft pick. Now, a prominent voice in women's sports and a mother of her own, Chamberlain is inspiring the next generation through her platform and leadership.
We asked Lauren five questions about youth sports, life lessons, and more
1. What’s your favorite youth sports memory?
I remember this one specific day pitching with my dad at a local park. I can still picture everything – the grass, the dirt, the backstop and my dad on the bucket. It wasn't about how I was pitching, but the memory of doing it with him on that day. We had many of those moments, but something about that one was special.
2. Who has been the most influential person or coach in your life?
Growing up, my parents shaped me into the athlete and the person that I am today. My work ethic and passion for being the best comes from them. Today, my husband, TJ, is easily the most influential person in my life. His outlook and perspective on life has greatly enriched mine and I am a better human with him by my side.
3. What’s one lesson you’ve learned through your sport that has shaped your life?
My body is beautiful! I learned to embrace my frame and see my strength as a gift. I’ve accomplished so much because of my body, the one God designed. It has carried me through my career, into my post-career years and still allows me to live a fabulous life.
4. What advice would you give to your 10-year-old self?
It goes by fast, kid. Have fun and never stop laughing with your teammates. Also, you're going to strike out throughout your career. Get over it, because you're going to hit a lot of home runs, too!
5. What is a motto or belief that you live by?
Confidence is built through uncomfortable situations, so do the hard stuff. Feel the fear and go for it anyway – growth is on the other side.
