Pueblo Central’s Sophia Perez turning practice into national recognition

PUEBLO, Colo. (KRDO)--For most athletes, practice is part of the process. For Pueblo Central softball standout Sophia Perez, it's where she feels most at home.

"Playing, it's just an escape," Perez said. "Practice is fun for me."

That mindset has helped turn Perez into one of the most dangerous hitters in high school softball. If opposing pitchers choose to challenge her, there's a good chance she's finding a way to reach base.

According to her coaches, that success didn't happen overnight.

"Sophie's been special since she was in elementary school," Pueblo Central head coach Lita Sanders said.

Perez has been a Wildcat through and through. Growing up in Pueblo, she played on teams coached by her father and alongside many of the same teammates who would eventually join her at Central.

"My dad coached our team," Perez said. "There's probably seven of us from Central."

Even at a young age, her love for the game stood out.

"She was trying to pick signs for us," Sanders recalled with a laugh. "She's always been a student of the game. There's just always been something different about Sophia."

That difference has produced eye-popping results. Perez currently leads the nation in high school batting average while also ranking among Colorado's leaders in on-base percentage and stolen bases. Her production at the plate has earned recognition far beyond Southern Colorado.

For Perez, those accomplishments represent much more than statistics.

"It's not just showing off, like, 'Oh, I got this,'" she said. "It's really showing the sweat, the tears and the dedication I put in to get this."

Her coach sees the same relentless commitment every day.

"She studies the game. She works for this game. She's so passionate about it," Sanders said.

Softball has been part of Perez's life ever since her father first introduced her to the sport at a young age. Over the years, that passion has fueled countless hours of practice and preparation.

When adversity hits, she leans on lessons learned through the game.

"Sometimes I get down on myself," Perez said. "Then the first words in my head are, 'Hey, Soph, pick it up.'"

That resilience is one reason Perez continues to thrive. Whether it's a line drive into the outfield, a walk, or a stolen base, she consistently finds a way to impact the game.

Pueblo Central's season may be over, but Perez's softball journey is far from finished. With national recognition, elite production, and a deep love for the sport that began in childhood, she's proving that success isn't just built on talent. It's built on passion, preparation, and an unwavering commitment to the game she loves.

Currently, Perez is going through the recruiting trail looking for a school that can best help her achieve her dream of becoming a lawyer.