How a former soccer player became a superfan and an energizing force for Alabama softball

It was May of 2008 when Emily Pitek, a University of Alabama soccer player with an English degree in hand, faced a classic conflict of interest: walk at commencement or head to Rhoads Stadium for a Crimson Tide softball game. She chose the game, setting the stage for a journey that would turn a former soccer star into the ultimate Alabama softball superfan.

A Passion for the Tide

As the 2026 Women’s College World Series is in full swing in Oklahoma City, Emily Clifford—formerly Pitek—is once again in the stands. For the 40-year-old Homewood resident, this marks her 11th trip to the event, continuing a love affair with the program that spans over half her life.

Growing up in Buffalo, New York, as a multisport athlete, Emily was defined by her high-energy personality and a legendary motor on the soccer pitch, where she set a Nardin Academy record with 99 goals. When she arrived at Alabama to play under Don Staley, she eventually found herself drawn to the empire built by softball coach Patrick Murphy. With over 1,300 career wins and 16 WCWS appearances, Murphy’s program has become a juggernaut, and Clifford has been right there at the center of the atmosphere.

The Birth of a Superfan

Clifford’s obsession began in 2006 after a soccer injury gave her time to catch a game at Rhoads Stadium. Watching pitchers like Stephanie VanBrakle left her hooked. Recognizing that women’s sports deserved more vocal support, she decided to lead the charge. Her signature spirit appeared in 2006 during a tense NCAA Super Regional against Stanford when she donned a pink sombrero—previously worn at a gymnastics event—to rally the crowd. The Tide won, and a local legend was born.

After marrying Brian Clifford in 2010, her presence became a staple. She embraced the team’s philosophy of Mudita—finding genuine delight in the success of others. Former star Cassie Reilly-Boccia likened Clifford to a conductor of an orchestra, noting that her leadership made Rhoads Stadium one of the toughest environments for opponents in the country.

From the Dugout to the Hall of Fame

Clifford’s dedication reached national heights in 2012 when she was named to the inaugural ESPN Fan Hall of Fame. Former players like Haylie McCleney credit her consistency and energy as a major factor in the team's ability to compete at the highest level. Even when traveling away from home, such as her current trip to Oklahoma City, Clifford remains a visible, high-energy pillar for the program.

Today, while Clifford balances her life as a wife, a mother to three, and the Technical Director of Coaching for the Homewood Soccer Club, her loyalty to the Tide remains unwavering. She stays involved with her husband’s firm and the non-profit Libby’s Friends, proving that her passion for supporting others extends well beyond the diamond.

As Alabama competes for the title under Coach Murphy, Clifford is watching closely, cheering on a new generation of players like Jocelyn Briski and Vic Moten. Whether she is sporting her striped overalls or a black Dry-Fit for good luck, one thing is certain: she remains the heart and soul of Alabama softball’s most dedicated fan base.