ATHLETE OF THE WEEK: Huntyre Elling

What does this win mean to you?
It was a good team win. They definitely came around hitting the ball. No matter what happened in the game, we were moving on to the regional tournament, but a win feels a lot better.

How did you get into softball?
I started when I was 8 years old with rec ball. My team didn’t have a pitcher; and being the coach’s daughter, I was announced the pitcher. I’ve been playing ever since.

What’s the toughest part about being a pitcher?
Mainly forgetting about what happened. You can’t change what you just pitched. You just have to move on to the next pitch.

What do you enjoy the most about softball?
Just the competitiveness of the game. I’m not a very competitive or out-spoken person. I’m generally very quiet. I also love team sports and having other people there to enjoy a win with.

If you could play another sport, what would it be?
Football. I always wanted to play when I was younger, but I was always told, “You can’t play because you’re a girl.” I enjoy it because it’s rough.

If you could go anywhere in the world where would it be and why?
Europe. I like all of the accents.

Who is your biggest role model?
My parents. My dad always pushes me in softball to make me better. My mom has always been the supportive one, and she’s easy to talk to.

The East County Observer and Bogey’s Restaurant and Sports Pub have teamed up to showcase the East County’s top athletes. Each recipient’s article will be featured on the restaurant’s wall.