Why does Bella Dayton wear two lines of eye black under her left eye? What to know about Texas' hitter's unique ritual

David Suggs

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Why does Bella Dayton wear two lines of eye black under her left eye? What to know about Texas' hitter's unique ritual image

Bella Dayton makes her own rules.

The Texas star is one of the highest-profile names in this year's Women's College World Series. A big reason why is because of her style of play. She is a speed threat on the base paths, swiping 14 of 15 bags this season.

She's incredibly rangy in the outfield, as well, making a handful of eye-catching grabs that would make Willie Mays applaud.

And although she's not the most prolific power hitter, Dayton has a real flair for the dramatic, best encapsulated by her two-run dinger against Texas A&M in the waning moments of the Austin Super Regional.

Simply, Dayton is your favorite outfielder's favorite outfielder. She relishes the role, as well, garnering praise not just with her play, but also with the equipment she dons while taking the field.

Case in point: Her eye black. Dayton dons two strips of black eye paint in each game. It's a process that has taken the softball world by storm, so much so that younger players are drenching color all across their cheeks in an effort to look like their favorite player.

So, just why does Dayton do it? Here's what you need to know.

Why does Bella Dayton wear two lines of eye black under her left eye?

As with many traditions, the origins of Dayton's decision to wear two lines of eyeblack underneath her left are shrouded in mystery. However, her brother did offer insight into her appreciation of the gesture, one which she shares with him as a reflection of their sibling bond.

"She just always puts it on before the game," Dayton's brother said. "In postseason, she put it on me. I can't be in the dugout so it's like we connect with it."

The two have a tight-knit relationship with one another, he explained. Her brother would regularly attend her Little League games, getting a glimpse into Dayton's talents as a youngster.

"We're very close, I always went to her travel ball games growing up, like almost every single one," he said. "Seeing her on the biggest stage, it really means a lot."

It seems the feeling is mutual for Dayton, who opted to showcase her love for her brother with two simple lines. The Longhorns will be hoping such a movement can ward off Oklahoma's impressive squad. Only time will tell whether that is the case.

David Suggs

David Suggs Photo

David Suggs is a content producer at The Sporting News. A long-suffering Everton, Wizards and Commanders fan, he has learned to get used to losing over the years. In his free time, he enjoys skateboarding (poorly), listening to the likes of Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye and D’Angelo, and penning short journal entries.