Corri Hicks’ journey from Norman to Clemson
When Corri Hicks arrived in Clemson, she felt it immediately—this was home.
The former Oklahoma catcher, now a Tiger, knows what it takes to compete for championships, has a grounded mindset, and also a hunger to help Clemson Softball continue its rise in the national landscape. And if you listen to Hicks talk about her decision, you can tell she’s found exactly where she’s meant to be.
A Place That Felt Like Home for Corri Hicks
“Clemson felt like the right fit for me in my transferring process because it felt like somewhere I could truly call home,” Hicks shared. “The coaching staff is absolutely amazing and welcoming, the university cares about its athletes and their success both on and off the field, and Clemson itself is a beautiful place.”
For Hicks, joining Clemson isn’t just about stepping into a new uniform. It’s about investing in a program still writing its early chapters and having the opportunity to leave her mark on a team that has captured the heart of its community.
“I’m super excited to play in a newer program and am grateful to have the opportunity to be a part of the growing history of Clemson softball,” she said.
A Coaching Staff That Made It Easy
Hicks’ connection with head coach John Rittman and the staff played a major role in her decision. It wasn’t just about recruiting pitches; it was about genuine relationships.
“I absolutely loved the coaching staff and the conversations I had with them. They made me feel like I was a part of the family so quickly, and it just felt like the place I needed to be right away,” Hicks said.
“Coach Rittman is such an awesome coach, and I’ve only heard awesome things about him. Getting to know him and now having the opportunity to play under him for the next three years is something I’m really looking forward to. Coaches Crash, Jessie, Wigs, and KJ all bring such awesome vibes and were super fun to be around, which just makes the experience so much more fun!”
Lessons Learned in Norman
Hicks’ time at Oklahoma gave her a championship-level perspective on what it takes to compete at the highest level, but it also taught her something deeper.
“At Oklahoma, I learned how to trust in myself and how to trust the self-confidence I have built within myself,” Hicks said. “Showing up for yourself every day, believing in yourself, and talking to yourself kindly are such important skills to have, especially in a sport of failure.”
It’s a lesson that will serve her well as she steps into a leadership role with the Tigers, especially in the everyday grind of college softball.
“The lessons I learned at Oklahoma will help me to be both a good leader and teammate here at Clemson because the way that you interact with people starts with how you interact with yourself.”
Eyes on a Championship
Hicks’ goals at Clemson are clear and bold: win at the highest level and grow as a person in the process.
“My biggest goal on the field is to compete at the highest level possible and win a national championship,” she said. “My biggest off-the-field goals are to build meaningful relationships with both my teammates and coaches while also earning a degree that will help to set me up for my future endeavors.”
Building Something Special
For Hicks, Clemson isn’t just a stop along the way. It’s a place where she can compete, grow, and be part of something bigger than herself. It’s about the family atmosphere, the chance to be a cornerstone for a young program, and the belief that she can help take the Tigers to OKC.
In a sport that teaches patience, trust, and grit, Hicks is ready to embrace the journey ahead.
Sometimes, the best stories in college sports aren’t just about the trophies collected or the games won but about finding a place that feels like home—and for Corri Hicks, that place is Clemson.
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