Sports can unify a community. When playing on the same field, representing the same team, loving the same game, athletes with similar passions grow together. As seniors at NHS graduate and the 2021-2022 Noblesville Miller softball season comes to a close, the senior softball players took a minute to reflect on their experience on the team as they go their separate ways. 

“This team has changed me in the aspect that it’s a job [to be on the team]. We have fun and goof around with our friends all the time, but once we step over the lines, it’s a different environment. The game has changed me to be a better teammate and an even better human. It’s taught me that not one player or one swing can win a ballgame; it’s everything that gets you to that point if the opportunity presents itself.” Scout Duplaga, Catcher, Number 10. 

“Our toughest moment has probably been our loss in the 9th inning against Mt. Vernon High School. We had kept it a close game, but our bats just weren’t there in the beginning. It was hard to come back. Our team learned that to win, we have to have energy all throughout the game, from the first to last inning, to win.” 

Lauren DeRolf position: centerfield  number: 23

“I think we have a lot of good leadership [from] our seniors. We also make it fun for the underclassmen. I think we have shown them who we are as a program and the culture our coaches strive to build.” Kinsey Pfeiffer, 1st Base, #34

“Softball […] has introduced me to some of my closest friends and has been a huge source of my happiness for the last 13 years. My team has supported me in the past, whether it was a good play or a mistake that I made, they never gave up on me.” Aidan Gates, 3rd base, #4

“The girls [will be] the saddest thing to leave behind. I love these girls with my whole heart and have played with many since I was 9 years old. I’m excited to see what all they do and will cherish every moment I had with them.” Kira Thomas, Outfield, #7