North DeSoto’s Mia Norwood is impacted by daily routine and the loss of her brother
North DeSoto’s Mia Norwood is one of the top female athletes in Northwest Louisiana and a major reason for her prowess can be attributed to a daily routine every athlete would do well to emulate.
Before launching herself out of bed she sets aside time for prayer followed by a healthy protein breakfast and some Bible or devotional time with her mother, Alicia. Norwood then reads a section of “Heads-Up Baseball” to give her mental game a boost.
“I go to school, practice then come home to get ready to go to the gym for my personal workout,” Norwood said. “I eat dinner with my family or friends, shower, unwind and get my stuff laid out for the next day.
“I love a schedule, routine to stay on task,” she said.
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It’s all about discipline for the Louisiana Lafayette softball signee who already has three LHSAA state championship rings while working on a fourth with the Lady Griffins (19-3), the No. 1 team in the Division II Power Ratings despite losing two games last weekend to two teams rated No. 2 (St. Thomas More) and No. 3 (Brusly).
Even though the Lady Griffins walk with a well-earned swagger that comes from being the best in their sport for multiple seasons, Norwood said something else is important.
“It is important to be selfless, to remember to honor God and play for one another. To not get caught up in the publicity and keep our nose down and grinding,” she said. “I would definitely be heartbroken to not walk away from my high school career as a champion.”
Norwood isn’t just about athletics and working out. She’s involved in Fellowship Community Church, Living Life For Bryce, NDHS Student Council as vice president, the National Honor Society and the NDHS Red Coats.
Norwood’s love of life and living large was impacted by her brother, Bryce, who was diagnosed with pediatric cancer when he was 4 years old and passed away two years later. Bryce and his mother spent a year at St. Jude’s so Mia lived with her grandmother and was2 when Bryce lost his battle.
“I only know him through memories, and it has been something that has deeply impacted me and my family,” Norwood said. “He inspires me daily to embrace life, live like there is no tomorrow, and to always love God first.”
Mia Norwood file
Greatest fear: “Not living up to my own expectations and goals.”
Fanatic about: “My teeth. My pediatric dentist told me I could continue coming to him as long as I don't get an adult cavity.”
Most annoying relative: “My oldest brother, Zach. He annoys me purposely.”
Most embarrassing moment: “My freshman year I hit the ball and face planted coming out of the box and made a TikTok about it and it has been viewed over 102,400 times with 9,500 likes.”
Historical person she’d like to meet: “Babe Ruth so I can talk to him about overcoming adversity and mental toughness.”
Habit she’d like to break: “Twitching my nose.”
Favorite food: Sushi
Favorite clothing: Anything Lululemon
Jimmy Watson covers Louisiana sports for the USA TODAY Network. Email him at jwatson@shreveporttimes.com and follow him on Twitter @JimmyWatson6.
This article originally appeared on Shreveport Times: North DeSoto’s Mia Norwood is impacted by loss of her brother, Bryce
