Some of the most meaningful stories in sports come from the journeys we share with the people closest to us.
In this episode of When the Cleats Come Off, Ashley is joined by her middle sister, Kristina Burkhardt, for a conversation filled with memories, challenges, and lessons learned from growing up together in the game of softball.
Kristina shares stories from their childhood playing days, her passion for playing in the outfield, and the journey that led her through the recruiting process and into her collegiate career.
Growing Up in a Competitive Softball Family
For Ashley and Kristina, softball was a constant part of their upbringing.
Kristina reflects on what it was like growing up in a family that loved the game and how those early experiences shaped her passion for competing. From backyard practices to travel ball tournaments, those shared moments helped build the competitive mindset and work ethic that carried them into their playing careers.
Falling in Love With the Outfield
While many athletes try multiple positions growing up, Kristina quickly discovered a love for playing in the outfield.
She talks about what draws her to the position, the instincts required to succeed there, and how outfield play often demands both athleticism and awareness. Her perspective offers insight into what makes the position so unique and rewarding.
Overcoming Major Injuries
Kristina’s journey hasn’t been without challenges.
She opens up about the difficult experience of breaking both of her hands at different points in her career and what it took mentally and physically to return to the field. Those setbacks forced her to develop resilience and patience — qualities that ultimately helped her grow both as a player and as a person.
Looking Ahead to Her Final Season
As Kristina prepares for the final chapter of her collegiate softball career, she shares what she’s most excited about and the perspective she’s gained along the way.
From lessons learned through adversity to the relationships built through the game, she reflects on what this next stage means for her as both an athlete and an individual.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode
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What it’s like growing up in a softball family
The early experiences that shape competitive athletes. -
Why Kristina fell in love with playing the outfield
The unique skills and instincts required for the position. -
How she overcame breaking both of her hands
Lessons in resilience and recovery. -
What the recruiting process looked like for her
Navigating the path to college softball. -
Her perspective heading into her final collegiate season
Reflecting on the journey and what comes next.
About Kristina Burkhardt
Kristina Burkhardt is a collegiate softball player known for her athleticism in the outfield and her resilience through adversity. Growing up in a competitive softball family, she developed a deep love for the game and carried that passion into her collegiate career.
Through both challenges and successes, Kristina has continued to grow as a competitor while embracing the lessons the game has taught her along the way.
