Q&A with Amber Ergle, PCHS senior catcher
Q: How old were you when you started playing softball?
A: I was 8 years old when I started playing.
Q: Was there anyone special in your life that helped you become a great player, and how?
A: My dad has always pushed me to become a great ball player. He taught me how to play and helped me develop into the player I am today. I also had the best travel ball coaches to coach me throughout the years.
Q: How do you get ready for a game?
A: I get ready for a game by either listening to music, taking a nap or joking around with my teammates.
Q: What do you like to do when you are not involved with softball?
A: I like to spend time with friends and family, I enjoy painting, and I like playing with my dog Cooper.
Q: What factors do you feel have influenced you the most to become the player and person you are today?
A: I’m very competitive, and I always want to be good at whatever it is I’m doing. I also have a good support system at home that encourages me to do what makes me happy.
Q: Did you have any routines or superstitions before or in a game?
A: I always stretch really good, take some cuts and practice throw downs before a game. A big superstition is that you absolutely do not touch the line before a game and never cross bats. I have always led my team in prayer before our games.
Q: What is your favorite softball memory?
A: My favorite memory is when I hit my first home run. It was a Grand Slam my eighth grade year. There is no better feeling than rounding the bases after you knock one out.
Q: What softball player has influenced you most in the game?
A: I grew up watching college softball and seeing players like Jennie Finch, Lauren Chamberlin and A.J. Andrews, to name a few. They all influenced me to want to become a good ball player like them.
Q: What is the greatest obstacle you have had to overcome in your playing career?
A: I have had coaches and players that have doubted me and wanted me to fail, but I always kept pushing and gave 110 percent when I was on the field. I didn’t try to prove them wrong; I worked hard to prove to myself I could. As they always say, actions speak louder than words.
Q: What is life after being a softball player for you? I plan on becoming an OBGYN nurse, and I’m attending Northwest-Shoals Community College this fall to work toward that goal.
Q: What are your thoughts on your season and career coming to an abrupt end?
A: It’s so heartbreaking. Softball has been my whole life for 10 years now, and to have it taken away from me so unexpectedly hurts. I never knew the last game I played in before they canceled school would be my last ever. Looking back, I’m thankful for all the memories and friendships I have made over the years. Softball has impacted me in more ways than one. I will always have a love for the game, but now I can start the next chapter of my life.
