ATHLETE OF THE WEEK: Brianna Maxa

Braden River senior Brianna Maxa hit a RBI triple with two outs in the top of the 11th inning, propelling the Lady Pirates to a 1-0 victory over Barron Collier in the Class 4A-Region 3 finals May 3. Maxa followed up her game-winning hit with a double and a run scored in the state semifinals May 9. Here is an inside look at this week’s Athlete of the Week.

What was going through your mind when you made contact in the 11th inning of the regional finals?
It was a good hit. We needed to get everyone up and going. After 11 innings in it gets tough. I knew I hit it deep, and I was just hoping Jess (Cadorette) would score on it.

How would you describe this year’s team?
This year’s team is great. We have a lot of good girls. Across the field we’re strong. It’s been a good year, and I’m sad to see it end this way. But I’m proud of the way we pushed. I had a lot of fun with them.

How did you get into softball?
I’ve been playing since I was (about) 5 years old. My mom signed me up for T-ball, and I never stopped playing. Both of my brothers played baseball.

What are your plans for next year?
I’m going to the State College of Florida for nursing.

Do you have any siblings?
I have two older brothers: Matt, 26 and Ryan, 24.

If you could go anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?
Europe. I think it would be cool to see that culture; and I hear they have good food.

What’s your favorite movie?
“A Walk to Remember.” I just like that movie. It’s sad though.

Do you have a favorite subject?
Math. I’m pretty good at it. Most of it is easy for me to understand.

Contact Jen Blanco at [email protected].