Ongoing UF Softball Commentary

Only 1 percent of high school softball players make it to D1. To play for a team like Florida the odds are even worse. All of these Florida girls are elite athletes; just some are better than others.

 

Some notes from a friend: on Ava “She is Barnhill who can field a bunt and throw to first plus Kelly couldn’t hit. Brown is big time. Rothrock can hit too so she’s got to play”

“Goelz is so good in the field But Brown is too good … so she’ll either 1b or DH when she isn’t pitching“

“Otis, Falby and Wallace give UF three legit base stealers. Otis hits for power, can run and she’s the best center fielder we’ve had since Merritt. Erickson will be the every day catcher. Erickson is going to have a monster year at the plate and she’s exceptional handling the pitchers. Hovermale 3B … Pollard RF … McClellan will play a lot but so will Kistler. Re Hovermale - She hits and she can fly. They have to figure out what to do with Kowalewski who hits moon shots … but she catches and plays 1B. With the people we have hitting in front of and behind Walsh and Erickson they’re going to have to pitch to them.”

 

I’ve been told, and who knows, that Hovermale is solid at 3B but having Walsh spell her if her hitting is off. Nice luxury

 

For a couple years, before Lefty graduated as she is a year older than Alyssa, they were a lock handling the left side of the Athletics Mercado-Smith infield...Alyssa at third and Lefty at short.

 

BTW, while I have no idea why, Alyssa's nickname is "Lou".

 

Awesome! That article indicates that Ariel Kowalewski goes by "AK." When I saw that her number was #47, I was hoping that she goes by "AK." Plus, now my old brain doesn't need to remember "Kowalewski" or know how to pronounce it.

 

Didn’t know what to expect of Kowalewski coming in but her amount of playing time this fall has been a nice surprise. Also a fan of Barnard.

 

Pronounced: [ Kuh-val-ess-kee ]

 

kowalewski pronunciation phonetic spelling - Google Search

 

lol -- thanks guys.
UF website has each player saying their own name on their profile pages (click on the ear logo)
Ariel Kowalewski - Softball - Florida Gators

Now if y'all could just solve my remembering how to pronounce it......Prevagen is just not cutting it anymore. lol
In the meantime, I'm going with "AK."

 

Cow ah lew ski
Johnny gave you the definitive place to go.

 

Got it!

 

Kylie Shaw:
2025s in 5: Florida commit Kylie Shaw
TOP STORIES Brady Vernon - October 18, 2023

D1Softball continues to expand its coverage in every aspect of the game. As we increase our attention toward the recruiting scene, we continue our new series called “2025s in 5,” asking five questions to 2025 softball recruits who have recently committed.

Florida commit Kylie Shaw
Position: OF
Travel Team-Spark Elite Ross/Stewart
Hometown: Estero, Fla.

God is so good! Im staying home, and I could not be more happy for this opportunity!! Go gators #committed @_TimWalton @Cbarcl2 @Coach_AT @FranEnea10 @GatorsSB pic.twitter.com/WT5oFeOjtn

— Kylie Shaw (@kylie17shaw) October 4, 2023
What about the environment and culture drew you to Florida?

From a young age, I knew I wanted to compete at the highest level possible and contribute to a championship-winning team. The Gators have a history of success and have produced numerous All-Americans. The coaching staff is the best, and I have complete confidence in their ability to maximize my potential. Their commitment to excellence and attention to detail set them apart. I had the opportunity to watch a practice which included a lot of one-on-one training with instant feedback. The team’s culture is very family-oriented, yet they are very focused on being the best which aligns with my goals.

As a hitter, how cool was it to see the season Skylar Wallace had last season and being a true triple threat?

Skylar Wallace was so fun to watch and a generational player. Her talent is incredible and her work ethic both on and off the field is second to none. She’s a perfectionist who strives for excellence in every aspect of her game. She serves as a role model for many players, and I had the privilege of meeting her during my visit. She’s just as remarkable off the field as she is on it, which speaks volumes.

Are there any softball players you admire or resemble your game after?

When I think of someone who relates to me, Kendra Falby comes to mind. Like me, she plays with a ton of passion and a tremendous love for the game. She excels as a true triple threat, utilizing every part of her game to succeed based on the situation presented. She has great speed, small ball proficiency, the ability to drive balls into the gaps, hit for power and tons of range in the outfield. She’s so fun to watch and is sure to have another great season.

What would you believe are your strengths as a player and what are you most focused on improving on right now?

At the plate, I am able to read the defense and take advantage of opportunities. I can execute bunts, chop slaps, drive balls into the gaps, or swing for power. My job has always been to get on base, any way possible. Once on base, my job is to cause chaos. Defensively, I have good range and am not afraid to lay out for balls. My primary focus right now is on further enhancing my overall strength and explosiveness in the gym. This will lead to increased power, speed, a stronger arm, and overall athleticism, making me a more well-rounded player, so that when I get to UF I can be at my full potential.

What are you most excited about going forward the next few years before arriving at Florida?

In the coming years, I’m excited to play with the top players and face other top players in our tournaments. My goal is to continue to improve, ensuring that when I arrive at UF as the best player I can possibly be.

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Sounds like a winner

 

Yeah there is a cranky cuss who sits behind us who just can't seem to control what comes out of his mouth despite parents, grandparents, of players sitting directly in front of us. Just because you have an opinion....

 

I know exactly where you sit. Often, he can be heard next section over, unfortunately.

 

Miami to start a softball program?

 

I thought this was interesting. Mackenzie Wooten approached the SB coaches to be a manager while she is in PT school. They tried her out and brought her on to
the roster.

I cannot remember if I mentioned this or not, but November 8 is the signing day for our '24 class.