What happens when preparation meets joy — and you allow yourself to fully live in the moment?
In this episode of When the Cleats Come Off, Ashley sits down with Cydnee Schneider, one of the breakout stars of the 2025 postseason. From delivering clutch performances to becoming a highlight-reel regular on ESPN, Cydnee reflects on what it felt like to compete freely on the biggest stage and truly enjoy every moment of the ride.
This conversation explores how joy, confidence, and perspective can elevate performance — especially when the stakes are highest.
Living in the Moment When It Matters Most
Postseason pressure can either tighten athletes up or unlock their best performances.
Cydnee shares how staying present allowed her to embrace the moment rather than fear it, turning high-pressure situations into opportunities to compete with freedom. She talks about what it felt like to see her performances replayed on national television — and how staying grounded helped her continue showing up pitch after pitch.
Her story is a powerful reminder that joy isn’t a distraction from elite performance — it’s often the fuel behind it.
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The Path That Reignited Her Love for the Game
Before her postseason success, Cydnee’s journey included an important stop at the junior college level — one that reshaped her relationship with softball.
She opens up about how her JUCO experience helped her rediscover why she loved the game in the first place, rebuild confidence, and grow as both a player and a person. That renewed joy ultimately led her to transfer to Southeastern Louisiana Softball, where she thrived under impactful coaching and a supportive team culture.
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What You’ll Learn in This Episode
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How joy can unlock elite performance
Why playing free matters most when the pressure is highest. -
What it’s like competing in the postseason spotlight
Navigating big moments with confidence and presence. -
How JUCO helped reshape her mindset
Lessons learned from a path that reignited her love for the game. -
The impact of strong coaching relationships
Why trust and belief from coaches matter. -
How to stay present instead of overwhelmed
Competing one pitch at a time, no matter the stage.
About Cydnee Schneider
Cydnee Schneider is a collegiate softball standout known for her clutch postseason performances, infectious energy, and love for the game. Her journey through junior college and into Division I softball shaped not only her skills, but her perspective — allowing her to compete with freedom, gratitude, and confidence.
She continues to be a powerful example of how embracing joy and trusting the process can lead to some of the most memorable moments in an athlete’s career.
Connect with Cydnee:
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Instagram: @cyd_schneider1
