TISHOMINGO, Okla – The Murray State College softball team took part in a powerful and meaningful experience on Friday, visiting the Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum to honor the victims, survivors, and first responders of the Apr. 19, 1995 bombing.
 
The team was escorted through the memorial and museum by Bob Ricks, who served as the lead FBI investigator for the Oklahoma City Bombing and the Waco incident in 1994. Ricks provided firsthand insight into the events, investigation, and lasting impact of the tragedy, offering the Lady Aggies a perspective few have the opportunity to hear.

Coach Mullens reflected, "Today will go down as one of the most memorable days of my coaching career."
 
The visit also held special significance for the program as Ricks is the grandfather of current Murray State College softball player, DrewAnn White. Having her family connection as part of the experience added a personal and emotional layer to the day for both White and her teammates.

"I'm thankful for the opportunity to walk through the Oklahoma City Memorial as a team and family. It is something I will never forget," said DrewAnn White. "I grew up in Oklahoma hearing stories about April 19, 1995, from my grandfather. Standing in the museum put life into perspective. In one second, our life can be changed forever. I learned that the heartbeat of Oklahoma isn't found in buildings or landmarks. Still, in its people, the way we grieve together, stand together, and choose hope even after unimaginable tragedy. Our city was built from the ruins of loss, yet it continues to shine with resilience and purpose. Walking through that memorial taught me that carrying Oklahoma's heartbeat forward is a responsibility, and it's one I'm proud to carry on!"

As the team walked through the memorial grounds and exhibits, players and coaches reflected on the themes of resilience, service, and unity that define the Oklahoma City National Memorial. The visit served as a reminder of the strength of the community in the face of adversity and the importance of remembering history beyond the playing field.

"I am thankful for the opportunity for our team to be able to learn about the tragedy of April 19th, 1995. As an Oklahoman and a person who has lived in the state for my entire life, I have never been to the Oklahoma City Memorial," said Avery Beauchamp. "As I walked around the museum on Friday, one thought kept coming to me over and over. These people were living their day-to-day lives, never expecting a thing like this to happen, and yet it did. It made me aware that we wake up each morning expecting to live to see the next one, and the truth is, we may not live to see the next minute of the day we are currently in. The life we are given is a gift. Each second of every minute of every hour of every day is a gift. We are living on borrowed time, and while we still have breath in our lungs, we better make the most of it, because we just don't know which one will be our last."

The Murray State College softball team begins their season Jan. 23 with a home doubleheader against Clarendon College. First pitch is scheduled for 1 p.m.

        

Sports Information Director: Justin Wagner | jgwagner@mscok.edu
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