Sophia Schlader: Iowa’s Hometown Ace Turning National Heads

By Justin Broussard

For most high school sophomores, a busy week might mean juggling classes, practice, and maybe a part-time job. For Sophia Schlader, it’s a different level entirely.

The Urbandale native and Waukee Northwest standout is already a state champion, national All-American, and one of the top-ranked players in the 2028 class. Her resume reads like that of a college junior, not a 15-year-old balancing TikToks, youth group, and high school homework.

“I realized pitching was my passion right when I started,” Schlader says. “I loved it from the beginning. I love the work and the grind that goes into it.” - On when pitching became her thing

That love has fueled a career already full of milestones. In just two varsity seasons, Schlader has led the Wolves to a 5A state title, been named captain of the all-tournament team, and broke state records for strikeouts in both a single game (15) and a tournament (35). She’s a two-time 5A Pitcher of the Year, two-time All-State selection, and two-time Elite All-State honoree — all before her junior year. Just this week she was listed as the No.1 Pitcher by Extra Innings.

And the numbers don’t stop there. Schlader holds her school’s records for home runs (18), walks (33), innings pitched (187) and wins (30). She’s also crushed 185 home runs across 12 states, with a max exit velocity of 90.4 mph and a HitTrax-record distance of 327 feet.

Not bad for someone who just finished her sophomore season.

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Explosive. Intimidating. Fearless.

That’s how Schlader describes her pitching style — and anyone who’s faced her would agree. She attacks hitters with confidence, backed by hours of deliberate training. Her week usually includes four or more performance sessions focused on speed, agility, and strength, followed by bullpen work and hitting practice.

“My mindset on game day is to compete every pitch,” she says. “I know from experience that one pitch off could cost you the game.”

That mindset shows up in big moments — like the 5A title game, where her composure and command led Waukee Northwest to its first championship in program history.

“Winning state with my team was my favorite moment so far,” Schlader says. “It allowed me to play for something bigger than myself. It showed me that through hard work and determination, we can achieve the goal we’ve been striving for all season.”

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More Than a Pitcher

While most headlines focus on her dominance in the circle, Schlader’s equally dangerous with the bat. She admits it’s a tough call between a strikeout or a home run, but her competitive grin gives it away. “I think I’d rather hit a home run,” she laughs. “But almost nothing compares to striking someone out in an important moment.”

Her athleticism extends beyond softball. She’s also a state finalist in discus, finishing 7th at the 4A State Championships as a freshman — the top underclass finisher — and helping her team capture a state title.

“Track has taught me a ton about teamwork and chemistry,” she says. “At the end of the day, it comes down to how your team did. There are a lot of talented throwers in Iowa, and to be one of them I have to work hard for it. Nothing is given.”

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Faith, Family, and Focus

For all her records and accolades, Schlader is quick to deflect attention. Her foundation comes from her faith and those who support her most.

“I’m super thankful for all the wonderful humans supporting me during this journey,” she says. “They definitely keep me humble.”

She leans on one of her favorite verses, Mark 10:27:

“Jesus looked at them and said, ‘With man it is impossible, but not with God. For all things are possible with God.’”

“It reminds me that with God by my side in everything I do, I can accomplish anything,” she says.

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A Future Built on Choice

With her ranking as Extra Inning Softball’s No. 1 pitcher in the Midwest and a consensus top-five player nationally, Schlader’s recruiting journey will look different than most. Every major program in the country is expected to come calling — but she’s focused on finding the right fit.

“I’m looking for a place where I can do both hitting and pitching,” she says. “I want to be part of a family, not just a team. I want coaches who believe in me and never stop pushing me to be my best.”

Her goals for the near future are clear: win PGF Nationals, earn PGF All-American honors, and hit 70+ mph consistently.

With her work ethic, poise, and talent, few would bet against her.

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Quick Hits

•Hometown: Urbandale, Iowa

•School: Waukee Northwest High School (2028)

•Favorite hype song: “Rock N Roll (Clean)” – Ken Carson

•Athlete she looks up to: Megan Faraimo

•One word that describes her: Driven

•Go-to bake: Brookies

•Home run or strikeout forever: Home run

At just 15, Sophia Schlader has already accomplished more than most athletes dream of — but in her mind, the story’s just getting started. She’s the kind of player who puts Iowa softball on the national radar and makes every pitch feel like a preview of what’s to come.