For Jasmine Welch (’27), girls softball isn’t just a past time; it’s a full-time hobby, a lifestyle and an important oncoming base in the field of her life.
Although being only a sophomore, Welch leads the team stats. Being first for base percentage and slugging percentage, as well as having the most hits so far this season, it’s apparent that this isn’t her first time out of the dugout.
“[Softball] is going good. I’m still leading, I’m just always practicing. I’ve always trained hard, whenever I have the chance,” Welch said.
What keeps Welch coming back is the inherent excitement of the sport, which derives from the competition. As a great way to excerpt her competitiveness and vie for wins.
“It’s fun and I’m a competitive person and it’s a great way to channel my inner competition,” Welch said.
Two-year Softball Captain Lillian Davis comments on Welch’s impact on the team so far this season.
“I would say that Jazz has been very consistent on the field and has brought great energy to the any event,” Davis said. “She’s grown a lot over a year, and I’m very proud of her development.”
What Welch also enjoys is the community. Built up from her almost decade-long long experience with the sport, she has Softball to thank for a lot of friendships and connections.
“I enjoy getting to know the girls, because I’ve made a whole bunch of my friends [from softball],” Welch said. “I have so many connections when I go places, because of softball, and it’s ended up being such a huge part of my life and I can’t wait to see how it is in the future.”
Welch’s peers would agree, finding that her socialness is appreciated on and off the field.
“I would absolutely say that she serves as an inspiration, she’s very vocal and brings endless energy to the games and practice. Not only as a player but also as a friend. She always brings light to things,” Davis said.
With the sport accompanying her since she was nine, Welch considers it as only obvious to continue softball in the future.
“I definitely want to play in college,” she said. “I can definitely see myself playing third or pitcher in college, I’m still not sure.”
