What if you didn’t have to choose between being a mom and pursuing one of your biggest dreams?
In this episode of When the Cleats Come Off, Ashley sits down with Danielle Lawrie-Locke, a Women’s College World Series champion and current member of the Canada Women's National Softball Team, for an honest and inspiring conversation about motherhood, elite competition, and chasing a dream that still matters deeply.
After coming out of retirement to pursue the opportunity to compete in the Olympics, Danielle shares what it has looked like to train, parent, and navigate the emotional weight of wanting to show her children what it means to fight for something meaningful. This episode is a powerful reminder that identity, ambition, and family can all coexist — even when the path is not easy.
Returning to the Game With Purpose
Stepping back into elite competition after retirement requires more than physical readiness — it requires clarity, courage, and commitment.
Danielle opens up about what led her to return to the game and why the pursuit of an Olympic medal was something she felt called to chase. With a new season of life came new challenges, but also a new perspective. Competing as a mother gave her an even deeper sense of purpose and appreciation for the journey.
Her story shows that goals can evolve, but the drive to pursue them can remain just as strong.
The Reality of Mom Guilt
One of the most meaningful parts of this conversation is Danielle’s honesty about mom guilt.
She shares the internal tension that can come with pursuing something demanding while also wanting to be fully present for your children. Rather than pretending the balance is easy, Danielle speaks candidly about the emotional complexity of trying to do both well.
For athletes, parents, and anyone navigating multiple identities, this part of the conversation offers reassurance that it is possible to hold love for your family and ambition for yourself at the same time.
Lessons From the Biggest Stages
Danielle also reflects on her unforgettable run with the Washington Huskies Softball, where she helped lead the program to a Women’s College World Series title in 2009.
She talks about what that championship season taught her about leadership, pressure, and trusting the people around you. Those experiences continue to shape how she competes, parents, and leads today.
The Power of the Right Support System
No one chases big dreams alone.
Danielle emphasizes how important it has been to have the right people around her — people who support her goals, understand the demands of the journey, and help her keep perspective when things feel heavy. That support system has been a critical part of her return to the game and her ability to keep moving forward.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode
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What it takes to return to elite competition after retirement
Recommitting to a dream with new purpose and perspective. -
How Danielle navigates motherhood and high-level sport
Balancing family, training, and ambition. -
What mom guilt can look like for competitive athletes
Honest insight into the emotional side of pursuing big goals. -
Lessons from leading Washington to a WCWS title
Leadership, resilience, and performing under pressure. -
Why support systems matter when chasing hard things
The people around you can make all the difference.
About Danielle Lawrie-Locke
Danielle Lawrie-Locke is one of the most accomplished pitchers in softball history. A former standout at the University of Washington, she led the Huskies to the 2009 Women’s College World Series championship and became one of the most decorated pitchers in college softball.
Internationally, she has represented Team Canada at the highest levels of the sport and returned to competition to continue pursuing the Olympic dream. Known for her intensity, leadership, and resilience, Danielle has inspired athletes through both her performance and her honesty about balancing elite sport, motherhood, and life beyond the game.
In addition to her playing career, Danielle now serves as an analyst for ESPN’s NCAA softball coverage, bringing her experience and insight to audiences across the sport while continuing to shape the game from a new perspective.
Connect with Danielle:Â
Instagram: @daniellelawrie15
