Maya Brady, a talented young softball player, graces the field as a RedShirt Sophomore for the UCLA Bruins team. Her journey began in 2020 when she debuted with the UCL Bruins, earning the titles of Pac-12 Freshman and Player of the Week on February 11, 2020. While her prowess in sports has gained her recognition, there’s more to Maya’s story that piques her curiosity – her family. Let’s delve into the fascinating world of Maya Brady’s lineage.
Early Beginnings in Softball
View this post on Instagram
Maya Brady’s love for softball ignited at the tender age of four. During high school, she solidified her reputation, clinching the Ventura County Star 2019 All-County Softball Player of the Year title. Notably, Maya shares her athletic genes with none other than former American football quarterback Tom Brady – she’s his niece.
Meet Maya Brady’s Parents
Maya Brady was born to parents Brian Timmons and Maureen Brady on June 1, 2001, in San Mateo, California, United States. Her family also includes her younger sister, Hannah, a junior volleyball player for Sunshine VBC. Currently, Maya and her sister reside with their mother in Bakersfield.
Brian Timmons: The Legal Luminary
Maya Brady’s father, Brian Timmons, is a distinguished lawyer renowned as the Global Head of Complex Litigation for Quinn Emanuel. In the 1990s, he ventured into mechanical goods through his shop.
Maureen Brady: Softball Enthusiast and Nurse
View this post on Instagram
Her mother, Maureen Brady, shares Maya’s passion for sports. She played as a pitcher at Fresno State University and represented the United States on the Junior Olympic squad during high school. Maureen now works as a nurse and a softball instructor in Bakersfield, California.
Navigating Through Divorce
Maya Brady’s parents, unfortunately, parted ways on August 7, 2010, when Maya was just nine years old. Following the divorce, Maureen took on the dual role of a career-oriented mother raising her children as a single parent.
A Mother’s Inspiration
Maya Brady holds her mother in high regard, viewing her as her ultimate role model. She credits her mother’s unwavering work ethic, constantly reminding her that success is earned through hard work – a lesson applicable both in academics and on the softball field.
New Chapters in Brian’s Life
View this post on Instagram
After separating from Maya’s mother, Brian found love with Jennifer Litz Prado in 2014. Their relationship has spanned at least seven years, although it’s uncertain if they are still together, as Jennifer’s Facebook status recently changed to “Single.”
Family Ties Beyond Softball
Maya Brady’s family tree boasts notable branches. Her uncle, Tom Brady, is a renowned American middle infield player, adding a rich sporting legacy to the family. Besides Tom, Maya’s mom, Maureen, has two other siblings, Julie and Nancy Brady. Aunt Nancy also excelled in college softball and currently works in healthcare.
Kevin Youkilis: The Baseball Champion
View this post on Instagram
Maya’s uncle, Kevin Youkilis, an esteemed former MLB player and two-time World Series Champion, tied the knot with Julie Brady in 2012. Kevin’s impressive baseball career includes a Gold Glove award in 2007 and three all-star championship titles.
Embracing the Brady Legacy
In March 2021, Tom Brady acknowledged Maya as the most dominant player in the Brady family, a compliment she humbly accepts. Speaking to The Athletic, Maya expressed her determination to uphold the Brady name, emphasizing the positive pressure it brings:
“Not all pressure is bad pressure…Knowing that my family is very successful, I think it puts a lot of good pressure on me to give myself goals and try to be the best I can be. It’s not pressure like if I lose or I strike out, I feel like my family’s not going to talk to me, or I’m going to put shame on the Brady family name. It’s just good pressure. I love bearing the last name. I’m just really proud of it.”
Maya Brady, the rising star in American softball, draws inspiration and strength from her family’s legacy, particularly her mother’s unyielding spirit. Her journey is a testament to the power of determination and the unwavering support of loved ones.