What if the moments that nearly broke you ended up becoming the fuel that pushed you to your best?
In this episode of When the Cleats Come Off, Ashley is joined by Alex Storako, a University of Michigan graduate and 2023 National Champion with the Oklahoma Sooners Softball. Known for her fierce competitiveness and presence in the circle, Alex shares how some of the toughest moments in her career ultimately helped prepare her to perform on the sport’s biggest stage.
This conversation dives deep into the mindset that allows elite pitchers to compete through adversity — and why playing with a “chip on your shoulder” can become a powerful motivator.
Turning Setbacks Into Strength
Alex reflects on the failures and challenges that shaped her as a competitor. Instead of allowing those moments to define her negatively, she learned to channel them into determination, preparation, and focus.
Her story is a reminder that elite athletes are not immune to doubt or frustration — they simply learn how to respond differently.
Ashley and Alex discuss how those experiences ultimately strengthened her mental game and helped her thrive when the stakes were highest.
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Presence in the Circle
One of the most valuable parts of this episode comes from Alex answering questions directly from members of Ashley’s Virtual Hitting Academy.
She shares what presence looks like for her on the mound, how she uses self-talk to stay composed during difficult innings, and why controlling the pace of the game is one of a pitcher’s greatest advantages.
Her approach highlights the balance between intensity and composure that defines great pitchers.
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Trusting the People Around You
Pitching may look like an individual role, but Alex emphasizes how important relationships are to success.
She explains why the pitcher–catcher relationship is foundational to confidence in the circle and how building trust with your defense allows pitchers to compete more freely. Alex also reflects on her experiences playing for two Hall of Fame coaches and how those leadership environments helped shape her growth as an athlete.
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What You’ll Learn in This Episode
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How failure can become a competitive advantage
Turning setbacks into motivation. -
What presence and self-talk look like for elite pitchers
Staying calm, focused, and intentional on the mound. -
Why the pitcher–catcher relationship matters so much
Building trust and communication. -
How to work through mental blocks in competition
Strategies for regaining confidence. -
Why trust in your defense elevates performance
Competing as part of a team, not alone.
About
Alex Storako
Alex Storako is a standout collegiate pitcher who built a decorated career at Michigan before helping lead Oklahoma to the 2023 Women’s College World Series championship. Known for her competitive intensity and resilience, Alex has become a powerful example of how mindset, perseverance, and belief can elevate athletes to the highest level.
Connect with Alex
- Instagram: @alexstorako
