GIVE DAY | FEATURE | Tristen Maddox (SB)

Tristen Maddox is a three-time All-American and the 2024 Honda/CWSA Division III Women's Player of the Year. The two-time ASC Female Athlete of the Year guided ETBU to the 2024 NCAA Division III National Championship, is a four-time All-ASC first-team selection, was the NCAA National Championship Series Most Outstanding Player and NFCA Player of the Year, along with being a three-time ASC Player of the Year. She has played in four NCAA Division III National Tournaments and won three ASC Tournament Championships.

For Tristen Maddox, East Texas Baptist University is more than just an academic institution; it's a place of growth, transformation, and lifelong friendships. 

Since joining ETBU, Maddox has experienced a journey that has shaped her into the person she is today, both on and off the softball field.

ETBU holds a special place in Maddox's heart, and she believes that contributing to the university on Give Day is an opportunity to make a lasting impact on the students' lives.

A WELCOMING ENVIRONMENT

The influence of a welcoming and friendly environment on her campus visit to ETBU made Maddox's decision to attend easy. The kindness and warmth of the people she met made her feel immediately at home.

"I loved how welcoming everyone was when I came on a visit here, and the softball coaching staff was great as well," Maddox said. "I also wanted to learn more about God, and putting myself in a Christ-based university seemed like a perfect fit for me to start my journey."

As a student-athlete, Maddox is grateful for the excellent facilities at ETBU. She believes that these facilities enhance the performance of athletes and students alike, creating an environment where they feel supported and encouraged to excel.

"The facilities make me want to perform better because of all the donations poured into our program to help us succeed as student-athletes. It is hard to take that for granted when blessed with great facilities," Maddox said. 

"Whether in the classroom or on the field, having excellent facilities makes everyone feel cared for and supported."

A SERVANT LEADER

ETBU also provides numerous opportunities for students to become servant leaders. Maddox and her softball team engage in community service activities, such as visiting Hallsville Elementary School in the mornings to greet students.

These experiences bring joy to the children and positively impact Maddox and her teammates. 

"ETBU provides so many opportunities to become a better servant-leader with all of the available community service," Maddox said. "This not only makes their morning start good but ours as well."

Throughout her time at ETBU, Maddox has had the privilege of forming deep friendships and creating unforgettable memories. One of the most significant moments in her life was winning a national championship with her teammates, who have become some of her best friends.

"The feeling of that moment was so unreal and exciting and emotional because not only did my hard work pay off, but so did the rest of the teams," Maddox said. 

However, Maddox cherishes not just the victories on the field but also the growth she has experienced in every aspect of her life.

A STRONGER FAITH

ETBU has also played a crucial role in Maddox's spiritual journey. Before coming to ETBU, she admits she knew little about God. However, through the support of the university community, she has developed a strong and meaningful relationship with Him.

"Before I came to ETBU, I didn't know much about God, and it made me nervous or embarrassed to talk about or ask for help," Maddox said. "Throughout my time here and going to chapel, I learned more and more about Him, and I started to really want that relationship with Him. I started reading my Bible on my own, talking to Him, and growing in my faith."

Maddox credits her coaches, Head Coach Janae Shirley and Assistant Coach Maranda Westbrook, for their unwavering support and guidance throughout her journey. They have shown her what it means to be an empowered woman and a woman of God, teaching her valuable life lessons that will stay with her forever.

Looking ahead, Maddox is excited to continue her journey after graduation as a softball coach. She hopes to become a coach and inspire and empower young women athletes, just as she has been in her career.

ETBU has been the perfect place for Maddox to learn, grow, and become who she is today. She encourages anyone considering ETBU to embrace the opportunities of being part of such a supportive and faith-based community.