Paez Sisters: From Softball Stars to Hall of Fame Nurses in Just 20 Years!

Glades County, Florida, USA - The legacy of the Paez family at Glades Day School offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of high school sports, showcasing how hard work and determination can carve out lasting paths not just on the field, but in life. Sherri Paez, who coached for many years at Glades Day, believed that her daughters, Carmen and Jessica Paez, had to excel in softball to overcome any perceptions of favoritism. This commitment to excellence defined their paths as they transcended the norms of school athletics.

The Paez sisters were not just participants—they were standout athletes, each earning three Player of the Year awards from The Palm Beach Post during the 2000s. Carmen secured her title in 2002, followed by Jessica in 2003 and again in 2005, with another Glades Day player, Megan Flannery, winning in 2004. Their prowess peaked in teamwork, contributing significantly to the school’s first state softball championship, a moment that ultimately put Glades Day on the map for sports beyond their established football reputation.

A Tradition of Excellence

Both sisters displayed versatility, playing various sports throughout the year, including volleyball and basketball, facilitated by the K-12 structure at Glades Day. Due to a shortage of players, they often alternated between pitcher and catcher, showcasing their adaptability. In their senior and freshman years, Carmen and Jessica led their team to tense regional finals only to face defeat at the hands of Hollywood Christian in consecutive years. Their determination, however, paid off when the Gators clinched the Class 1A state title in 2004, a victory that required sacrifice as seniors chose to forgo graduation ceremonies to play in the tournament.

In the aftermath of high school, Carmen took her talents to Indian River State College but faced personal challenges that initially interrupted her journey. After a turning point, she was re-recruited by Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU) coach David Deiros with a full scholarship contingent on her completing her associate’s degree. Carmen took the challenge head-on and returned to dominate the field, setting a remarkable school record with 28 home runs in her first season back in 2007. She quickly became the national Division II Player of the Year, cementing her legacy in the sport.

A Lasting Impact

Jessica followed her sister to FGCU after her time at Santa Fe State College, and the two played together one last time during their final season in 2008. Together they helped FGCU achieve an impressive 48-16 record in their inaugural Division I season, with Jessica earning all-conference honors both years. Their story is not just about accolades; it’s about the invaluable experiences they gained—a sentiment echoed by NFHS which highlights the long-term benefits of athletics in youth, including increased self-confidence, teamwork, and responsibility.

Today, both sisters have transitioned from fields of glory to the halls of healing as ER nurses, a path that might seem distant from the diamond but is deeply rooted in the skills they developed through athletics. While Carmen was honored with induction into the Florida College System Hall of Fame in 2023, Jessica chose to focus on her medical career rather than pursue professional softball. Their mother, Sherri Paez, hung up her coaching cap in 2022, cherishing her memories of helping nurture two exceptional talents.

Building Future Champions

Glades Day School continues to champion the ideals of sportsmanship and cooperation under the guidance of Athletic Director Zach Threlkeld, a 1998 graduate and a key player for the school’s storied football teams. His vision emphasizes the development of competitive student-athletes who thrive in a disciplined environment, a philosophy that is crucial for fostering the next generation of champions.

As parents and students seek out educational environments that promote leadership and teamwork, such successes remind us—there’s a great deal to gain from participating in high school athletics. It’s more than just a game; it’s a way to build character, resilience, and friendships that last a lifetime.