During her senior year at Wright City High School, Megan Christopher had one clear-cut goal in mind — to play Division I softball at the University of Missouri.

She longed for the opportunity to wear the black and gold.

Christopher never imagined the unpredictable benefits that have come with achieving that dream.

Preparing to enter her senior season at Mizzou, Christopher reflects on the unexpected joys that have come with being a Tiger.

Mizzou has enjoyed two straight trips to the College Women’s World Series and has established itself as a perennial power under the leadership of head coach Ehren Earleywine.

“Never did I fathom that I would be a part of such a successful team,” said Christopher. “To be a part of two World Series has been amazing.”

Christopher is thankful to have been along for the ride. A stressful decision during her senior year had the Christophers at a crossroads over money and prestige.

Christopher’s story has been told several times. In fact, she has become somewhat of a prototype for the “walk-on” athlete. Smaller schools teased the All-State catcher with promises of full scholarships and starting roles.

“I was really trying to choose between Emporia State or Mizzou,” said Christopher. “The Emporia coach told me, ‘Hey, you can come play for us and win a national championship.”

Even amidst her own doubts, Christopher held fast to a dream.

Her parents, David and Sally, questioned her decision to forgo a free education.

“It was very stressful on my family,” admitted Megan. “Both of my parents wanted me to go where the money was ... my parents sacrificed so much time and money for me to be able to experience what I am today.”

Having witnessed their daughter collect one priceless memory after another, Christopher’s parents realize the right decision was made.

And Earleywine is glad he opened the door for a class of girls that wasn’t always considered prime Division I material.

“I’m a proud papa, because I took a chance on some kids that had potential, and potential has never won a game,” said Earleywine.

For the second straight season, Mizzou eclipsed a new school wins record with 51 victories.

“It’s heartwarming,” said Mizzou coach Ehren Earleywine. “To see what she’s turned into and help our program win the Big 12. You could arguably say her class has experienced more success than any other class in any sport at Mizzou.”

Christopher and her teammates have become regulars on national television, and the Warren County native has turned into a local celebrity.

“I love this community,” said Christopher. “They have supported me every step of the way.”

She has spent her summer working for the Wright City Parks Department, often umpiring Little League games.

“A lot of the younger girls will say, ‘Oh, your’e the college player. Will you give me some tips,” said Christopher.

She credits local coach Jim Lowry with teaching her about the game and wants to return the favor by sharing her knowledge.

As she prepares to enter her final season in a Tiger uniform, Christopher says she has a few clear-cut goals. One of those is to accept the role she is given with the best attitude possible.

After spending her sophomore season as a regular starter, Christopher was sometimes reduced to a defensive role this past spring. 

“I’m going to accept whatever role coach puts me in,” said Christopher. “I have aspirations of being a starter, but I want to be a whole team player this year.”

Following an exceptional beginning to her junior campaign, Christopher’s numbers began to drop off.

She went from batting over .700 the first few weeks of the season to a .212 average for the season.

She started 35 out of her 54 appearances, collecting 18 hits. Christopher was responsible for three home runs and 14 RBIs.

“I didn’t want to accept my defensive role as quickly as I should have,” admitted Christopher. “It’s hard going from being an everyday starter to going to the ballpark wondering if you’re going to play that day.”

Earleywine says the change in Christopher’s demeanor was noticeable. He says he spotty hitting prevented her from being a regular starter.

“There’s no better catcher in the Big 12 than Mizzou when it comes to defense,” said Earleywine. “We want her to be behind the plate, but she needs to hit .250 every game — get at least one  hit every game. We need that consistency from her.”

Christopher’s predicament didn’t keep her from enjoying a milestone season by the Tigers.

Mizzou reached the championship game of the Big 12 Tournament for the second straight season, this time losing to Oklahoma.

The Tigers were selected to host the NCAA Regional and Super Regional. They qualified for the World Series after piecing together five straight playoff wins.

“Growing up and watching the World Series, I always wanted to go there,” said Christopher. “The World Series is it for girls, because there’s not really a professional league.”

Much like last year, MU was unable to break through to the championship game, losing its first two contests and facing elimination.

But Christopher says a return to Oklahoma City may be in the works for her final season. The Tigers graduated just three seniors from this year’s team.

“It’s almost like (making the World Series) has become an expection,” said Christopher. “It’s kind of scary to think about.”

She says the team is under solid leadership with Earleywine in control. Christopher, who is working toward a degree in elementary education, hopes to filter some of that wisdom into her career.

“His vision and knowledge is so vast,” said Christopher. “I have learned so much that I can take on to my coaching career — except my signals won’t be as complicated.”