Kelly Maxwell - Letting Go

Kelly Maxwell’s journey to Oklahoma was a story of perseverance, faith, and excellence. The standout pitcher had a remarkable 2024 season at the University of Oklahoma, helping lead the Sooners to a 59-7 record. She was dominant in the circle, finishing with a team-best 23-2 record and a 1.94 ERA. Over 155 1/3 innings, Maxwell tallied 164 strikeouts, making her one of the top pitchers in the game.

Her career before Oklahoma was equally impressive. Maxwell spent her previous years at Oklahoma State, where she made a name for herself as being a premier force. With accolades that included being a six-time Big 12 Pitcher of the Week, a USA Softball Player of the Year finalist, and an NFCA First-Team All-American, Maxwell’s move to OU in her final year of eligibility was highly anticipated.

Maxwell’s transition to Oklahoma, however, was filled with change both on and off the field. She describes the year as “pivotal,” marked by feelings of uncertainty and vulnerability that came with transferring schools. This decision weighed heavily on her, but it also opened the door to new opportunities.

“My faith has always been an important part of my life,” Maxwell shared. “I grew up going to church and talking about the Lord with my family and friends. But, I would say that my senior year of college was really pivotal, as it was filled with a lot of uncertainty and vulnerability involving my decision to transfer universities. I felt lost, heavy, and unsure of my purpose and path in life. But I ultimately found a new home of believers at OU.”

Maxwell credits her coach, Patty Gasso, for helping her embrace a deeper relationship with God during this challenging time. “Coach Gasso really helped me to open up and let God into my life completely, as I was still weighed down by the past. She encouraged me to surrender my doubts, worries, and fears to Him.”

This shift in mindset not only strengthened Maxwell spiritually, but it also freed her from the pressures of performance. “I realized that criticism, outside expectations, and my performance on the field didn’t define me anymore. The seasons that tested my strength, the situations that felt uncomfortable, and the decisions that required courage, led me to true fulfillment.”

Maxwell’s faith became her guiding light, offering her a new perspective on success and worth. “I found a new purpose. A purpose to glorify Him. When I made the decision to let go and let Him, I realized my worth is more than just a game. Today, I thank God for every difficult season I’m walking through, because it’s helping me become the person He created me to be.”

As she reflects on her journey, Maxwell hopes her story of faith and courage will inspire others. “I hope that others can experience and find the joy of the Lord. Jesus never asked anyone to play it safe. We were born to be brave. So my only hope is that others can be brave in their love for the Lord.”

Her message is clear: while her time at Oklahoma was filled with success on the field, it was her journey off the field that truly defined her. As she steps into the next chapter of her life, Maxwell leaves behind not only a remarkable collegiate softball career but also a testimony of resilience, faith, and the joy of finding purpose beyond the field.