Q&A with Olivia Ergle, THS senior pitcher
Q: How old were you when you started playing softball?
A: I played my first softball game when I was 8. I pitched my first game in seventh grade. That’s when I decided I want to be a pitcher.
Q: Was there anyone special in your life who helped you become a great player, and how?
A: Yes. The ones who pushed me the most were my parents; however, I have had many helping hands. I started lessons with Brian Shollenberger when I was in the seventh grade. I moved to Anna Grace at Powerhouse a year ago. They are the reason I am the pitcher I am. I have the best coaches, Brooklyn Clark and Tanna Benford. Coach Clark pushes us to be better in everything.
Q: How do you get ready for a game?
A: I have weekly lessons and pitch multiple times throughout the week. I practice with my team every chance we get.
Q: What do you like to do when you are not involved with softball?
A: I love spending time with my family, my boyfriend Levi and my awesome friends.
Q: What factors do you feel have influenced you the most to become the player and person you are today?
A: Determination to get better and faster and work on my mechanics.
Q: Did you have any routines or superstitions before or in a game?
A: As a team, we always stretch and throw. I have a routine of snaps, T- Drills and pitches I always do to warm up. As a team, we always break it down with our team prayer on the base closest to our dugout. It’s a very special time for us before each game.
Q: What is your favorite softball memory?
A: My favorite memory is signing all the home run balls of my teammates. Taylor and I always sign it “Olivia and Taylor Ergle” because we always joke we are sisters. We have played together since the beginning in youth league.
Q: What softball player has influenced you most in the game? Why?
A: My sister, Cara Grace Ergle. As long as I can remember I watched her play softball. I always looked up to her and wanted to like her.
Q: What is the greatest obstacle you have had to overcome in your playing career?
A: An obstacle for me and my whole team has been for us to have so many coach changes. It’s harder than anyone really knows. But we are by far now blessed with the best! Coach Clark has changed our whole outlook on the sport and pushed us to be the best we can be. I can’t imagine playing for anyone else my senior year!
Q: What is life after being a softball player for you?
A: I want to go to college and become a dental hygienist.
Q: What are your thoughts on your season coming to an abrupt end?
A: My heart breaks. I did not ever imagine having to leave my team and coaches this way. I pray it doesn’t have to end like this. It has taught me to appreciate everything and to not take things for granted.
