Name: Zoey Valentino

Grade: Junior

Sport: Softball

How long have you been playing?

I would say that I have been playing for about 8 or 9 years.

What position do you play?

I am the catcher.

How did you start playing?

One of my first friends played it and I went to one of her games and knew that this was something that I wanted to do and be a part of.

Have you played any other positions?

I have played third and first base.

Do you want to play in college and or, do you know what school you’re attending?

Yes, I am committed to the University of Delaware

Do you play any other sports?

No, I don’t play any other sports

Do you play outside of school?

Yes, I do play softball outside of school

Do you like playing in school or outside of school better?

I love both and playing year round; I enjoy both because I never stop playing.

What was the hardest thing to learn about the sport?

I would say it’s hard to learn how to cope with failure.

What is your favorite thing about the sport?

The camaraderie and the friends that you make while playing is my favorite part.

What was your greatest achievement in the sport?

I would say committing to University of Delaware.

How do you stay in shape?

I would say practicing and training everyday

Is it hard for you to balance school and Softball?

It was hard at first, but it gets easier and I started doing better at balancing all of my work.

Do you ever think about going pro?

No, I wouldn’t want to go pro because I know that girls who do don’t have such a good opportunity and it’s not as glamorous when it comes to female sports, so I wouldn’t decide to ever go pro.

Do you have any before game superstitions or rituals?

I would just say left sock, right sock and left shoe, right shoe, but otherwise, I don’t have any superstitions.

How are the season stats so far?

We are doing really good, I mean we had was a tough loss to Howell, but our stars have been great so far.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS (STATISTICAL OR OTHERWISE) FROM THE MONTH:

• Batted .533 with 5 Home runs, 21 Runs Batted In and 12 Walks during the month of April
• Broke the career record for home runs
• Is on a path to rewrite the record books in most offensive statistical categories

ATHLETE’S IMPACT ON THE TEAM’S OVERALL SUCCESS:

“As the catcher, Zoey is a leader on and off the field. She works closely with the pitcher to manage the game and her offensive output speaks for itself. Zoey always has a calm demeanor and is supportive of her teammates in all situations.”