MORGANTOWN — As the University High softball team advances further into the postseason, Lindsey Vorndran continues to be a problem for the opposition.
She has been stacking the RBI column this season for the Hawks, resulting in dominating victories, including a win over Buckhannon-Upshur to secure the Class AAA Region I, Section 2 title. Her dominance at the plate this season comes from an unselfish mindset Vorndran has taken.
“Unlike in the past, this year I have focused more on driving the ball,” she said. “Everyone has their own role on the team, and I realized that my job is not strictly to get on base every at-bat, but instead make solid contact so my teammates can score. When I’m at the plate, I try to stay selective and wait on the pitch that I like.”
Vorndran is also an experienced base runner who uses her speed to squeeze out extra base hits or advance on any overthrow. She credits her trust in herself and her coaches as the key to success when running. It seems Vorndran is constantly applying the pressure on opposing teams by turning an extra base when feasible and having fun doing it.
“I know they have to make the perfect play to get me out, and we’re willing to take those chances. With this being my last season, my biggest goal has been just to have fun. I don’t put any pressure on myself and having a good mindset is half the battle,” she said. “As we get into later innings of the game, you start to understand the other team’s strengths and weaknesses. If I can recognize a player’s weak arm or high tag I can use that to my advantage.”
When Vorndran isn’t in the outfield during a game, she likes to stay active with sightseeing, walks or, if the season is right, skiing. However her main hobby is art, where she enjoys drawing, painting and working with clay in order to maintain a creative and stress-free outlet from the world.
The Hawks seem to be getting hot at the right time, as they are beginning to consistently string hits together and gain some lengthy leads. As the postseason continues, Vorndran knows every team they face will be better than the last, and stresses the importance of continuing to piece together hits. However, she knows that with the increasingly difficult competition, plays in the field will matter more.
Next up is John Marshall in the regional championship series, which begins at 5 p.m. Monday in a best of 3 series. The Monarchs beat Morgantown in the Section 1 tournament.
“I really want to focus on my defense and footwork, making sure I can cover as much ground as possible. It’s important for me to have my teammates’ backs and make the crucial plays,” the outfielder said about moving forward in the tournament.
As great of a show Vorndran puts on when playing softball, this postseason will be her final act, as she is set to attend the University of Maryland this fall.
“I’m definitely going to miss softball, but I’ve had so many great memories to be thankful for. Mindy (Parks), Barry (Kolar) and Nathan (Greene) have all made me into a better player and person, giving me skills I can use throughout the rest of my life.”
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