Unlike some players, junior slow pitch softball player Annie Martire has not played the sport her entire life.
“I started playing four years ago when I was 12, and I’ve continued to play since then. I love the positive atmosphere and environment that surrounds the team,” Martire said.
Sophomore Alyssa Nath has known Martire for six years, but has played softball with her for four.
She said Martire is a positive role model for the slow pitch team.
“Annie brings so much energy and excitement to the team. She is always cheering everyone else on the entire game, whether we are winning or losing, and she is always quick to celebrate everyone else’s achievements before her own,” Nath said.
Sophomore Layla Miller said Martire pumps the team up.
“When Annie plays, she’s loud in a good way. She’s so energetic and brings a very positive vibe to the team, and that helps motivate us to play well,” Miller said.
Martire said softball has taught her valuable lessons she can apply to her everyday life.
“I don’t play another sport, so softball has taught me a lot. My greatest takeaway from it is that I have to adjust to change quickly,” Martire said.
Miller said Martire gives the sport her all.
“She’s very eager to do the very best she can every game and practice,” Miller said.
Nath agreed.
“Annie has a very good work ethic, and she is there for every single game and makes every practice when she can, and she is constantly looking to improve her skills,” Nath said.
Martire said playing softball has given her many perks.
“I’ve become best friends with some of the girls that I play with,” Martire said.
Miller said Martire was a good influence on her when she first joined the team.
“My favorite memory with Annie has to be when I first started playing softball. We both play in the outfield and that is when I started to get to know her, and we really started being friends after that. We started playing together really well, and now we’re great friends,” Miller said.
This Saturday the girls face Mt. Lebanon in the first round of playoffs. Martire said the game offers a chance to avenge last year’s playoff loss.
“I’m super excited for the first round of the playoffs. We played against Mt. Lebanon in the first round last year and almost won, so I’m confident that we are able to win against them this year,” Martire said.
