In this episode of Catching You, co-hosts Rusty and Lacie Ham dive into Lacie’s incredible journey from NCAA softball to competing internationally. Fresh off her summer season in Puerto Rico’s Softball Superior Nacional Femenino with the Valencianas out of the city of Juncos, Lacie reflects on how playing abroad reignited her passion for the game.
From intense semifinal matchups against pitchers she once idolized, to the electric energy of Puerto Rican fans with drums and horns, Lacie shares how this experience felt different—more free, more fun, and without the heavy pressures of college athletics. She talks about cultural immersion, building bonds with her team in Juncos, and the honor of earning First Team All-League recognition.
But the adventure doesn’t stop there. Lacie is now preparing for her next big chapter—moving to Adelaide, South Australia, to play for the Port Adelaide Magpies. She discusses the challenges ahead, from coaching a 12U team to adapting to a new country (and driving on the other side of the road!).
This conversation is more than just about softball—it’s about growth, mindset, and rediscovering why you love what you do. Whether you’re an athlete, a parent, or just someone chasing a passion, you’ll find inspiration in Lacie’s story of resilience, adaptability, and joy for the game.
🎧 Listen in to hear:
The difference between college pressure and playing free
Lessons from competing against world-class talent
The unique culture of Puerto Rican softball
Preparing for life and softball in Australia
📍 Catching You – Where the game is only the beginning.
00:00 Embarking on New Adventures
05:19 Reflections on Puerto Rico Experience
11:15 Cultural Differences in Softball
16:28 The Pressure of College Athletics
21:45 Finding Freedom in Competition
27:30 Looking Ahead to Australia