Upstate Softball Exemplifies Family Values, Joining Drake in Autism Acceptance Month

SPARTANBURG, S.C. - As the Spartans dominated the Big South Softball regular season, including enjoying a seven-game winning streak in April, they also found unity in a cause that goes beyond the field of play--autism. Through the month of April, the Spartans could be seen at Cyrill Stadium and on the road wearing special ribbons with the autism puzzle piece logo.

Junior transfer Lydia Drake approached her teammates in March about supporting autism awareness by wearing a ribbon. "My brother Troy was diagnosed with Autism when he was young," shared Drake. "I thought only a few teammates would opt-in, but I was wrong—they all wanted to support. I love this team so much."

April, widely recognized as Autism Awareness Month, is typically symbolized by various shades of blue. During April, organizations aim to promote autism acceptance, celebrate neurodiversity and individual differences, and further the inclusivity of those with autism.

"My brother Troy is my hero, and the ribbons have sparked many conversations about Autism," said Drake. She continued, highlighting how Upstate softball is incredibly family-oriented, creating an environment where she felt comfortable sharing about her brother with her teammates. This supportive atmosphere enables her to "talk about one of my favorite things" while playing softball at the college level.

Lydia plans to pursue a career in Criminal Justice when she graduates in 2025, however, she fully intends to continue promoting Autism awareness. "This will never end--it's an amazing thing," added Drake. My brother can fall down, get hurt, and still be the happiest person in the world. We all need a little of that in our lives. I want to share that."

As Drake described, the "hungry" Spartans team enters the final stretch of the 2024 season, and one thing is certain: Troy's influence and the unity within the program will continue.

Up Next for the Spartans

Following the Withrop series Friday and Saturday, Upstate will prepare for the Big South Softball Tournament where they will enter as the No. 1 seed and face off against the No. 4 seed on Thursday, May 9, at 4:00 p.m. in Rock Hill, S.C. For more information about the Big South Softball Tournament, click here.

Tickets on Sale for Sparty's Ball – Saturday, May 18
Support USC Upstate Athletics at Sparty's Ball, the largest fundraiser of the year for the Upstate Athletic Fund. The UAF impacts current and future generations of Spartans, developing champions on the field, building scholars in the classroom, and preparing leaders for life. Presented by the Sports Medicine Institute, a division of Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System, Sparty's Ball features live and silent auction items, delicious food from Cribbs Catering, beverages, and live entertainment from Under the Sun, and held at a new location, Indigo Hall in downtown Spartanburg. Come dressed in your Spartan best—cocktail attire is required. For details and tickets, log onto www.upstatespartans.com/spartysball.

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Players Mentioned

Lydia Drake

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