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Britney D. Reddick

Softball By Britney D. Reddick, Sports Information Graduate Assistant

NCAA ATLANTIC REGIONALS: Pritchard shines as the ultimate team player

INDIANA, Pa. (May 12, 2011)—After a four-hour bus ride through the picturesque valleys of Pennsylvania, the Kutztown University softball team arrived at Indiana University of Pennsylvania's Podbielski Field for its final practice before it make its 2011 debut in the NCAA Division II Softball Atlantic Regional.

Kutztown (39-14 overall) will play California University of Pennsylvania (28-12) Friday afternoon beginning at 1:30 p.m. The other opening-day game will feature IUP (33-6) against Winston-Salem State (29-12) at 11:00 a.m. Daily admission is $5 for adults, $3 for students and senior citizens, and $2 for children 12 and under. No pets are allowed at Podbielski Field. (NCAA TOURNAMENT PAGE/ DRIVING DIRECTIONS).

Although the Golden Bears had a quick practice, sophomore pitcher Stephanie Pritchard (Parkesburg, PA/Octorara) was all over the place taking infield from the circle, shagging balls in the outfield, and running bases for situation plays. One can't miss the fiery red-head who's covered in freckles. Her beautiful strands may present a bold, scorching personality, Pritchard is one of many sweet girls on the KU softball team.

But what stands out about the Parkesburg native is that is a true team player who devotes her time and talents to the team. Pritchard has been a key contributor to KU's success this season. She is 1-0 with a 1.85 ERA in four appearances this season. Pritchard has 11 strikeouts in 11.1 innings and tossed a complete-game gem in a win over Davis & Elkins.

During Wednesday's team practice, Pritchard stayed after to throw some batting practice to teammate Jen Stow. Her unselfishness is and willingness to work hard is something that most admire.

“During practices I just try to throw my best so my team can see pitches,” Pritchard said. “It helps them work on their hitting and in the long run it helps the team as a whole.”

In games, you can often catch Pritchard yelling endlessly for KU as she cheers her team on.

“I try to cheer them on as much as possible,” Pritchard said. “I try to pick everybody up. Especially if someone is starting to hang their head because they struck out or something, I'll try to bring them back up and let them know that they'll do better next time. “

It's rare that most athletes call practice fun, but Pritchard enjoys being around the comedic Kutztown squad who adds entertainment to every situation. But the jokes will be put on hold temporarily as the Golden Bears have some business to take care of on Friday afternoon.

In just her second year in the maroon and gold, Pritchard is making a return trip to the NCAA Division II Softball Atlantic Regional and couldn't be happier.

“It feels great to be here again,” Pritchard said. “We are a good team and hopefully we'll make it further than we did last year. We have to win every inning of each game to be a contender for the rest of the weekend.”

She chose to play for KU after several visits. The successful softball program and the scenic campus attracted her. Pritchard loves being a Golden Bear. She also likes that the coaching staff tries to make everyone the best athlete that they can be.

“Our coaches try to push us to our potential and beyond,” Pritchard said. “When the coaches yell it's only because they want us to be better or to work harder.”

Hard work is what Kutztown will depend on to get them through the next few days. But if KU keeps its motto of taking things “one pitch at a time”, it'll be in good shape.

“I'm nervous and excited about tomorrow,” Pritchard said. “I'm excited because we're here and I want to win. Hopefully my nerves will kick before tomorrow.”
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