For sophomore pitcher Kaitlin Parker, time devoted to practicing softball in the off-season is reaping rewards on the school team.

As a freshman, Parker was double-rostered on both JV and varsity, but enjoys being one of three varsity pitchers this year. When she’s not pitching, Parker plays left field.

“I put in a lot of time in the off-season,” Parker said. “I take pitching and hitting lessons and my club team plays every weekend during the summer.  I’m practicing a lot on my own, too.”

Beginning in kindergarten, Parker’s love for the sport was evident, but was not always as prominent in her life as it is now.

“When I was younger, [softball] was just another sport to play in the summer,” Parker said. “But I’ve grown to love it more as I got older.”

As a pitcher, Parker is involved in every play on defense. Her leadership position is shows when she is on the mound.

“Sometimes I feel a little bit of pressure,” Parker said. “But I like being in charge of everything. I like being the leader on the field.”

In the near future, Parker is looking forward to the Emporia Tournament that the team will travel to on Friday, May 3.

“I’m excited because you get to play teams that you don’t normally around here,” Parker said.

Parker, who also plays volleyball, says softball has always been her favorite sport.

“I like that softball is a challenge,” Parker said. “Volleyball has always been the sport I’ve played for fun, but I’ve really had to work to get good at softball.”

When asked about her favorite part of the season so far, Parker had a definite answer.

“The games have been the best part,” Parker said. “I just love playing.”