With strong offensive and defensive skills, Kaitlyn Craig is a driving force on a young Silver Bluff High School softball team that will be looking to improve after a disappointing season.
"She is the leader of the team," said coach Eric Hofstetter.
The Lady Bulldogs finished the season 13-14. From the start, Mr. Hofstetter knew this would be a rebuilding year.
The coach said Kaitlyn provided some impressive statistics for a team not talented or experienced enough to post a winning record.
Kaitlyn was the leading hitter with a .418 batting average. She also led the team with 25 RBIs. As one of Silver Bluff's two pitchers, Kaitlyn had a record of 7-6 with an ERA of 2.36 and 79 strikeouts in 87 innings pitched.
The sophomore hasn't always been a pitcher.
"She was thrown into the role as a freshman," Mr. Hofstetter said.
Kaitlyn said she started playing softball when she was 9.
"Up until seventh grade, I played outfield," she said.
After being pressed into service as a pitcher, Kaitlyn found she enjoyed the responsibility.
"Knowing you have control of the game and the way you play affects the outcome of the game" keeps her focused while on the mound, she said.
Even though the Lady Bulldogs' season has ended, Kaitlyn said she will follow her coach's advice and try to get better as a player.
"You really have to work hard year round," Mr. Hofstetter said.
Kaitlyn and catcher Allison Kennamer will be seeing a lot of each other because they will be working out together during the summer and fall.
Kaitlyn's ultimate goal is to return to the state championship. She was a starter with the Lady Bulldogs as an eighth-grader when the team made it to the state playoffs.
"I played with the team at the state championships. We didn't win, but it makes you want to go back. I want to know what it's like to win it all," she said.
In addition to softball, Kaitlyn has played on Silver Bluff's volleyball team and is a member of the school's Spanish Club and the Beta Club.
Reach Charmain Z. Brackett at czbrackett@hotmail.com.
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