Sarasota Athlete of the Week: Allison Cole

Allison Cole is a junior on the Riverview High softball team. As of March 5, Cole is 4-0 and holds a 1.65 ERA as a pitcher. She also is hitting .625 with five RBIs as a hitter. The Rams are 5-1 as a team after winning four total games in 2023. 

Why did you start playing softball?

My older sister (Megan Fullerton) played softball. She's seven years older than me. I just wanted to follow in her footsteps at first, but I got used to the game pretty quick. It was easy for me to get into it. 

What is the appeal to you?

I love being around my teammates. It's easy to joke around with them. I also like that it creates a schedule for me to follow. 

What is your favorite softball memory?

I don't know if I have one standout memory. My favorite times are usually hanging out with my team before games. It's like we are all best friends. 

What is your best pitch?

It is probably my rise ball. I strike a lot of people out with that, so I tend to throw it when I'm ahead in the count. I also throw a fastball, a changeup, a curveball and a screwball. 

What have you been working to improve this season?

Well, I just started throwing a curveball at the beginning of this season. I throw a lot of outside pitches, so learning to throw an inside pitch was a challenge. I'm still working on it and trying to master it. 

What has been the key to the team's early-season success?

We're hitting well right now and we're not getting down on ourselves. Coming into the year, I think we did not know what to expect. After the Venice game (an eight-inning, 3-2 Rams win on Feb. 20) we gained some confidence. 

What is your favorite food?

Probably any type of pasta. Also, I get Chick-fil-A before almost every game. (Laughs.) 

What is your favorite TV show?

Right now I am watching "The Vampire Diaries" a lot. 

What are your hobbies?

Recently I've gone to the beach and gone shopping (with friends), so usually stuff like that. 

Which superpower would you pick?

Teleportation, just so I can get places quickly. 

What is the best advice you have received?

Do not be negative with yourself. It is important to always find the positive. 

Finish this sentence: "Allison Cole is … "

Shy at first. But once you get to know me, I'm the biggest jokester you'll ever meet.