From catcher to outfielder to second baseman, WCHS senior Leah Sonnabend can do it all. Sonnabend is a highly valuable player on the WCHS Girls Varsity Softball Team and a utility player, indicating that she can play every single position on the field. Sonnabend has been on the varsity softball team since she was a freshman and now in her senior year, she is a captain. Like many players, her softball journey started off with a simple ball and bat, but soon progressed into a lasting love for softball.
“I got into softball when my older sister’s recreational team did not have enough players, so I stepped in,” Sonnabend said. “My parents have been my number one supporters by always showing up to support me at games, [and] whether we win or lose, [they] give me great pep talks to keep me motivated.”
Sonnabend has not only been a captain on the field, but off of the field as well. As a four year varsity player, she has developed a community with others through softball and became a role model for younger players. She has firsthand experience on what it is like to be new to the team and understands how it can be helpful to have an older teammate as an inspiration and a leader.
“During preseason workouts, she would always talk to me, and as a new person she was very welcoming,” WCHS freshman and varsity softball player Cici Miller said. “In the dugout during games, she always talks to me and the other freshmen.”
However, no team is complete without team cheers and chants. Sonnabend has been recognized not only by her coach, but also by her teammates, as someone with great spirit. Her passion for softball is apparent through her persistent support, assistance and guidance towards her team. Additionally, her great pride for her team is a big contributing factor to her overall success as a softball player.
“Leah definitely brings the WCHS softball spirit to life with her energy and dedication to the team,” WCHS senior and varsity softball player Christine Knowlton said. “She is always working so hard to make sure we are playing our very best, and she always makes sure everybody is included and feels welcome on the team.”
Becoming a utility player is not easy, and it takes a lot of courage to try a new position. It requires one to get out of their comfort zone and to be open to try new things. It also demands adaptability and versatility during practice and games. To become a utility player, one needs to be prepared for the unexpected.
“I became a utility player by stepping up and offering to learn new positions when other people were injured or unable to play,” Sonnabend said. “My favorite position to play is either shortstop or catcher.”
As a utility player, Sonnabend has prompted her teammates to get out of their comfort zones as well. She has been uplifting and motivational with her positive attitude and perspective on trying new positions. Her willingness to try other positions has set an honorable example for her teammates to follow if they have to adapt into a new position.
“Leah is super inspiring because she never hesitated to step into a new position, wherever and whenever she was needed,” Knowlton said. “If we found ourselves in an unexpected situation midway through a game, Leah was always ready to help.”
Along with a newfound sense of community, being on the WCHS Girls Varsity Softball team has given Sonnabend tools that she can use in the future. Her position has taught her resilience and problem-solving skills.
“We have had to face team challenges, such as injured players, but we have always been able to battle back,” Sonnabend said. “Playing softball at WCHS has shaped me into the leader I am today. It has helped me overcome challenges and become a better teammate.”
