"My experience at Barton Community College playing softball for Carson DuBose was far from what I had ever envisioned for myself. Junior college was meant to be a stepping stone, a place to develop, grow, and prepare for the next level at a four-year program. Instead, my softball journey came to an unexpected and painful halt after I was forced to make a difficult decision for my own well-being. What should have been a time of growth and opportunity turned into a period marked by confusion, disappointment, and deep self-doubt. Throughout my time at Barton, favoritism was evident and deeply discouraging. DuBose frequently spoke negatively about her own players to other teammates, fostering an environment rooted in gossip rather than growth. The lack of maturity in her leadership was difficult to overlook and created unnecessary division within the team. One day you could be praised and made to feel valued; the next, you would find yourself sitting on the bench without explanation. That inconsistency made it impossible to play freely or confidently, and over time, it slowly stripped away my love for the game. Respect within the program often felt conditional, something that was only given when you directly benefited her in some way. For those who were favored, the experience could be positive and affirming. However, if you were not among her favorites, often for no clear or justifiable reason, your time in the program became miserable and isolating. The disparity in treatment was impossible to ignore and had a lasting effect on both morale and confidence. Based on my experience, this is a coach and program I would strongly caution athletes against, as the environment was damaging rather than developmental."