By Ciara Reed

One of our very own athletes at Tuscarora has earned the prestigious title as of one of the best in the United States at her sport. Sophomore softball player Juliann Carter was selected to be included in the book, “The Best Players in USSSA Fast Pitch Softball.” W

Essentially, Carter was recognized by the United States Specialty Sports Association, which promotes sports such as baseball, basketball, softball, flag football, golf, martial arts, lacrosse, soccer, and volleyball. Her outstanding performance at USSSA tournaments for her Division A team led to her being considered one of the best youth fast pitch softball players in the U.S. “I feel honored to be in it; it goes to show hard work always pays off,” said Carter.

Juliann Carter began her softball career at the age of 6. Now, she represents the Shamrocks, a Division A softball league, where she competes in tournaments. Through this league she was noticed by the United State Specialty Sports Association.

Carter made Tuscarora’s varsity softball team as a freshman last year. As a utility player, she can play any position that is needed, but is best at shortstop, second base, center field, right field, and left field. “I like being on a team but still having individual challenges within the game. I like the mental challenge of it too,” Carter explained. She must keep her eye on the ball as she practices to tryout for the Huskies’ team again this year, and possibly playing college softball in the future.

Leading up to spring sports tryouts that were held on February 23, the girls have been preparing every Monday and Thursday at conditionings with varsity softball head coach, Ms. Smith. During these rigorous workouts the players do a combination of weight training to build strength and running to develop speed and endurance.

This upcoming softball season has the potential to be great with all of the talented players at Tuscarora this year.

“Based on the off-season workouts, I think the season will be great for both our JV and varsity teams. The girls are working really hard, coming together as a group and pushing each  other to become better,” said Ms. Smith.

The previous year, the varsity team had a lot of success and made it to the second round at the Region 5A Tournament.

“Our goal is to play as a team, work hard and put ourselves in the best possible position to make a run in the playoffs. I want the girls to focus on playing as a team. If we do that, the outcomes will be great,” said Ms. Smith on her hopes for this season.