by Trina Walker
Anyone who has ever attended games can spot the softball mom in the crowd. She is
the one who rolls up to the field with a traveling campsite, fully stocked with everything a
thirsty, hungry or tired group of girls could need. Softball moms are the backstage crew
managing team comfort, moral and spirit.

This dedication to the team earned Darla Coronado Harris of Ardmore the title of
Softball Mom of the Month. Darla has one daughter, Mya, playing softball for AHS. She
also has two bonus sons, Oshay and Terrell. They have all been involved in sports.
“The thing I love the most,” says Darla “is just being with my family! Anything that
involves them!”

She also loves supporting other children. “I get to learn more about them and more
about Mya through them. I support all sports. If I have a student, child of a friend, niece
or nephew and I have the opportunity to be there I will. Rather they are playing or
coaching,” she says.

The advice Darla has for other parents is to get involved in whatever their child is in. “It
can be a challenge, but it can help your child learn new skills and confidence. Being
involved has brought me closer to my children. We have always had an open forum
discussion household. There is no judgment,” she says.

Darla’s number one game tip is, “I carry a mom bag! It has any and everything that they
may need. Anything from snacks to a sewing kit.”

Helping the kids with needs they have off the field allows coaches to just focus on
coaching. Taking care of these tasks helps the entire team. Parent volunteers are
essential for preparing the concession stand, or running the gate. “We do have a great
support of volunteering parents,” she says.

To the students, Darla just wants to tell them “don’t be so eager to grow up. Enjoy these
years.” She has been involved in Mya’s athletics since YMCA recreation ball. From T-
ball, softball, indoor soccer, and basketball, Darla knows how fast these years fly by.
Her best memories were made this season. She was asked to drive the bus to take the
girls to a festival. These moments spent with all the girls helped cement Darla as the
teams official Mom of the month.

It is not just the kids on the softball team who get to spend time with Darla. She is also
the receptionist for Lincoln Elementary and she serves in the K-2nd children’s
classroom for H20 Lifechurch.