Emma Gray may only be a freshman this season, but she has played softball for nine years and is a welcomed addition to the varsity team at Hobart High School. Gray and her teammates are excited to get on the field and see what the season holds.

“I’m a pitcher in fastpitch and I play second base or outfield in slow pitch. What I’m looking forward most to is our game against close rivals, that is when we play our best and compete the hardest,” said Gray.

The excitement of the game is something Gray said she loves most about competing.

“I love the excitement when it’s a close game and how everyone comes together when you step on the field. What I love about my team is even if we are losing, we don’t give up and will keep pushing,” said Gray.

Also a basketball player and golfer, Gray is a member of FCA, FCCLA, Math Club, STUCO, and AP Club. Gray said enjoys her classes at HSH and is already looking ahead to college.

“My favorite subject is History because I love learning about the past and my favorite teacher is coach Tahah because she always asks me in the mornings how I’m doing and about my physical well-being,” said Gray. “I would love to get a scholarship to play softball and get my degree in education and my masters.”

One person with a tremendous amount of influence on the young pitcher is her father.

“My dad has been the biggest influence on my life. He is always pushing me to be my best at everything I do and even if we argue at the end of the day, I know he’s proud of me for what I’ve accomplished,” said Gray.

As for the upcoming season, Gray said she is working to improve her hitting and is looking forward to showing what she can do. “The area I think will be improving the most this season is my hitting. I’ve been lifting and running to prepare for all sports I’m involved in,” said Gray.