Story by Elizabeth Perez, Legacy & Legends Softball
Name: Ja’Leiyah Johnson
Nickname: Lele
Hometown: Huntsville, Alabama
Graduation Year: 2029
Grade Point Average: 3.5
Travel Team: D1Vision 14u Premier
Projected High School: Athens High School, Alabama
Positions: First Base, Third Base, Middle Infield
Height: 5’4"
Bat/Throw: Right/Right
Pitching Arsenal: Fastball, Curve, Screw, Rise, Drop, Change-up
Overhand Velocity: 57 mph
Exit Velocity Off Tee: 69 mph
Home to First Base Time: 3.0
Planned Academic Major: Social Work
Email: Specialjcj2011@gmail.com
Twitter: @ja_leiyahJ
Instagram: Ja_johnson2029
Who are you?
I am Ja’leiyah Johnson a kind/shy person. I love Top Golf, softball, and making music.
New team new look!! Playing up this season
How did your softball journey begin?
My dad was asked to coach when I was 5 years old. He signed me up and said I did things a typical 5-year-old wouldn’t do for the first time playing. I’ve been playing and training since then.
5 yrs old where it first started
What are your greatest softball strengths?
My greatest strengths are my pitching and my hitting.
Where it all began ...
What kind of pitcher are you?
I’m a pitcher who embraces the moment, nothing too big or small. I learned at an early age how to deal with any pressure/adversity.
At age 9, pitching in her first All-American tournament and garnering two awards
What kind of hitter are you?
People/coaches say I’m a power hitter.
Recent stats are:
Batting Avg: .558
OBP: 563
SLG: .905
HR: 1
RBI: 25
What is your favorite sports moment?
My favorite sports moment is winning a basketball championship in 7th grade. My greatest achievement going to the All-American tournament winning the Ace & MVP award.
"Power Pitcher and Power Hitter"
How do you handle adversity?
I handle adversity and failure easily. My dad has always prepared me for that. The best thing I can do is focus on the things that I can control.
How would your friends and teammates describe you?
My friends and teammates would describe me as a hard worker, great athlete but very quiet.
Who is your role model?
My dad is my role model. This man works hard, helps thousands of people, don’t care what people think about him and very strong minded.
What softball personality would you like to spend the day with?
Odicci Alexander played at James Madison University (JMU) when I was 10 yrs old. She had the eye of the tiger when watching her play. When I watch her play, I see myself. My dad had drove me 8hrs away to meet/train with her but she had to cancel so I never got to meet her.
What is your overall softball goal/dream?
My overall softball goal/dream is to play at a high level and to play in the college world series. Then I want to help other players.
Photo Cred: KXAN
What is your favorite jersey number?
My favorite jersey number is 7 but I’m number 44 on my travel team. I’ve had number 7 since I was 6 years old. A number is what you make it, so I am embracing 44.
What other sports do you play?
I play SG in basketball. I’m good at basketball but softball is a sport that comes to me. I will be choosing another sport for a hobby like wrestling or tennis.
Monrovia Basketball
What are your hobbies and interests?
My hobbies are doing art or making music and hanging out with friends.
Friends at a game
Who would you like to thank for helping and supporting you in your softball journey?
My dad is who I will thank a million times for supporting the way he does. I don’t know how he does it, but I appreciate him to the fullest. I don’t always show it, but nothing compares to his support.
Bucket Dad
Additional Information About Lele
Walk Up Song: What You know About Ja’Leiyah
Favorite food: Taco Salad
Favorite Song: N/A
Favorite Music Artist: Lacrae
Favorite Sports Team: Philadelphia Eagles
Favorite Sports Celebrity: Ja Morant
Favorite Movie: Matilda
Favorite Tv Show: My Wife & Kids
Favorite Book: The Hate You Give
Favorite Travel Spot: Florida
Favorite Quote: "Be ready for the unexpected, instead of letting the unexpected be ready for you." --- Dad
Story by Elizabeth Perez, Legacy & Legends Softball, 26 June 2024
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