“Avery Hodge: The Untold Story Behind Her Decision to Leave Oklahoma Sooners Softball”
Baton Rouge, LA – April 27, 2025
In one of the most talked-about moves of the offseason, Avery Hodge, the talented infielder who became a fan favorite for her stellar performances during the 2024 Women’s College World Series, made the bold decision to leave the Oklahoma Sooners Softball program. She wasn’t just walking away from a national championship-winning team; she was turning the page on a legacy and stepping into the unknown at LSU.
The news of her transfer to Louisiana State University (LSU) shocked many in the college softball community. After all, Oklahoma’s dominance in the sport, led by legendary coach Patty Gasso, made the Sooners one of the most successful programs in NCAA history. However, Avery Hodge’s departure wasn’t a decision made in haste. It was a calculated, deeply personal choice — one that she now feels ready to explain.
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The Sooner Era: A Dream Fulfilled
When Avery Hodge first stepped onto the University of Oklahoma’s campus, she was already a highly touted recruit. Coming out of Richmond, Texas, Hodge was regarded as one of the top infielders in her class, known for her quick reflexes, excellent glove work, and fiery attitude on the field.
At Oklahoma, she became a part of a powerhouse program that had already established a culture of excellence. Her freshman year saw her contribute off the bench, but it was clear that Hodge had the potential to be something special.
The turning point came in 2024 when, due to an injury to starting shortstop Alynah Torres, Hodge was thrust into a starting role during the Women’s College World Series. It was a baptism by fire. The pressure of playing in one of the most prestigious tournaments in college softball could have overwhelmed any player, but not Hodge. Instead, she delivered in spectacular fashion. She ended up hitting .284 for the season, and in the most crucial games of the World Series, she was 4-for-9 with key hits that helped the Sooners secure the national title.
“It was surreal, honestly,” Hodge said with a smile during an exclusive interview at LSU. “To be playing in those moments, on that stage, and contributing to the team’s success… it was everything I could have asked for. Winning a national championship is the pinnacle, and I was so proud to be part of that legacy.”
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The Struggles Behind the Success
Despite the glory and triumph of winning a national championship, Hodge began to feel a growing sense of dissatisfaction. She admits that while the Sooners were undeniably successful, she was constantly battling for a spot in an already star-studded lineup. Every year, Oklahoma brought in more top-tier talent — including highly ranked recruits and experienced players — which meant that even after proving herself in the World Series, she would continue to face fierce competition for playing time.
“I love competition,” Hodge explained. “But there’s a difference between competing for your spot and feeling like you’re constantly fighting just to keep up. At Oklahoma, every day was about proving yourself all over again. It wasn’t just about being good; it was about being the best. And that’s tough when you’re surrounded by other players who are just as talented.”
She paused for a moment, as if reflecting on her journey.
“It felt like I was losing myself in that process. I didn’t want to just be a player on the team; I wanted to be someone who could lead, someone who could shape the team. And I didn’t feel like that was possible at OU anymore. I wasn’t playing the way I knew I could play. I was trying too hard to fit into a system instead of letting myself be me.”
It wasn’t an easy conclusion to reach. Hodge spent several months wrestling with her feelings, trying to reconcile her love for Oklahoma and her undeniable need for something more — something that would allow her to truly flourish both as a player and a person.
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The Decision to Transfer: A New Beginning
As the 2024 season came to a close, Hodge made the difficult decision to enter the transfer portal. The decision wasn’t made lightly, and she spent a lot of time reflecting on what she wanted for the future. She spoke with her family, her closest friends, and even some of her teammates.
“I talked to Jayda [Coleman], Tiare [Jennings], Kinzie [Hansen], and the rest of the team,” Hodge recalled. “They were so supportive. They understood that I needed to do this for myself. I wasn’t leaving because I was unhappy with them or with Oklahoma; I was leaving because I needed to grow.”
She continued, “I wanted to find a place where I could step into a role as a leader, a place where I could make mistakes and learn from them, but also have the chance to truly contribute in every way possible.”
Eventually, after weighing her options, Hodge found the perfect fit at Louisiana State University. LSU, under the leadership of Coach Beth Torina, had a program that was hungry for success, much like the Sooners, but with a culture that emphasized individual growth as much as team triumph. Hodge knew she would have to earn her spot in Baton Rouge, but she was ready for the challenge.
“Coach Torina was honest with me from the start,” Hodge said. “She didn’t promise me a starting role or playing time. She promised me an opportunity. And that’s exactly what I needed — a place where I could push myself and become the player I know I can be.”
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The LSU Opportunity: Embracing Leadership
As Hodge arrived in Baton Rouge, she felt an immediate sense of belonging. The LSU Tigers were building something special, and Hodge knew she could be a key part of that.
“I’m coming here not just to play, but to lead,” Hodge said confidently. “I’ve been through the grind of playing in a championship program. I’ve faced the highs and lows, and now I want to bring that experience here. LSU has a great foundation, and I’m excited to help build something even bigger.”
At LSU, Hodge quickly became a leader both on and off the field. She was already taking extra ground balls, mentoring younger infielders, and making sure to foster a team-first mentality. The Tigers were coming off a successful season, and with the addition of a player like Hodge, the future looked even brighter.
“Leadership is not just about giving speeches or leading drills,” Hodge said. “It’s about leading by example. It’s about showing up every day, working hard, and being there for your teammates, no matter what. I want to be the kind of player who inspires others to give their best.”
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The Future: A New Chapter
As of now, Hodge has two years of eligibility left. She is expected to take on a prominent role for LSU in the 2025 season, with the potential to make an even bigger impact in 2026. She is determined to help LSU compete for national titles and to leave a lasting legacy in Baton Rouge — one that is uniquely her own.
“I’m not here to fill anyone’s shoes. I’m here to leave my own mark,” Hodge stated. “I’ve got a lot to prove, not just to everyone else, but to myself. And I’m ready for whatever comes next.”
With her career still ahead of her, Avery Hodge has no doubts about her decision. She’s determined to make the most of her time at LSU, not only as a player but as a leader who will be remembered long after she’s gone.
As for her time at Oklahoma, Hodge looks back with nothing but gratitude.
“Oklahoma was everything I could have asked for,” she said. “I learned so much there, and I’ll always cherish my time with my teammates. But LSU is where I need to be now. It’s where I can shine.
