Chelsie Goodman started practicing for the softball season opener even before the school year began.

"Chelsie lives for softball," said Angie Abney, Ridge Spring-Monetta High School's assistant softball coach.

During the summer, Chelsie, a sophomore, played recreation league softball to improve her skills.

"She has been working hard in the off-season to pick up her game," Abney said.

Ridge Spring-Monetta, which posted a 12-8 record last season, opens its season March 10 at McCormick High.

Chelsie, who is at third base when not pitching, started playing softball in the third grade.

"She has a strong arm, and it shows when she plays third," Abney said. "She also pitches and has great leg strength to groove the ball."

Chelsie prefers being on the mound to playing third base.

"I love to pitch," she said. "You are the center of attention. You control the game."

Abney said Chelsie has a good work ethic and is constantly trying to become a better player.

"Chelsie has seen a lot of growing pains, but they are all beginning to pay off," she said. "She is a role model to the younger athletes."

Chelsie also plays on the Lady Trojans volleyball team, which finished second in Region 4A in the fall.

Chelsie said she likes the aggressive side of volleyball.

"I love to hit the ball hard," she said.

If she had to choose only one sport to play, however, it would be softball.

"Softball is really fun. It takes me away to my fun place," she said.

Chelsie is a member of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, the student council and the FFA at Ridge Spring-Monetta.

Reach Charmain Brackett at czbrackett@hotmail.com.