A LADY LEOPARD

 

A Lady Leopard player is one who can only be defeated by the last out of the game.  She is what every young girl wants to become and what an older woman can look back upon with great pride that she once was. 

 

A SOFTBALL PLAYER

To play good competitive girls softball, much preparation is needed.  A player must devote many hours, days and years to practice.

 

Softball is so fast and changeable that a player must often react automatically to situations.  In many instanced, bad habits are hard to change.  A player should start with an open mind and a determination to progress with the game. 

 

Softball is for the competitor.  There is no place in softball for a loafer or a part-time player.  If the individual loves the game, is in good physical condition, and thrives on competition there is a chance she can develop into a good softball player.

 

Lessons learned on a softball field will be ever valuable.  One learns to give and take, to be a good sport, to accept decisions, to think and act under intense pressures and above all, to be a good team member.

 

Any player who becomes discouraged, upset, rebellious, one who loses poise in any way, is unfair to herself, family, team and school.

 

One should never use dirty or unethical tactics when playing.  Play should be hard and aggressive, but should adhere to the spirit of the rules.  This makes one a better player.

 

Many teams are ineffective because of player jealousies.  Someone has to hit in the winning run in every game.  This does not necessarily mean that this person is the best player, but such an achievement does make news for the sports writer.  A jealous or envious player is usually a poor risk.  Softball is a team sport.  A player should do her part to promote good team spirit and cooperation.

 

A player may not make the headlines, but if she has done her assigned job well, she has the satisfaction of knowing that she has played an important part in her team success.  The more she progresses as a player, the more she realizes how essential a good team performance is to her individual contribution.  The game write-up may make no mention of her efforts, but her coach is proud of her and discerning fans appreciate her teamwork.

                                                                                                   -Coach Tracy Knapik