Freshman Shortstop Cements Herself for Years to Come

MaxPreps Student Section

Freshman Taylor Donegan, Faith Christian (Grapevine, Texas)'s softball shortstop, has been recognized as player of the week. Her talents were exhibited in last week's game against Liberty Christian. Assistant Coach Christen Lee said of Donegan, a 5'7", red-headed freshman, "It is very exciting to know that Taylor is only a freshman because we will have her for three more years. She is a leader by example on the field." As Faith's starting shortstop, she was the only player to go 3-3. Against liberty and she displayed her base running ability by scoring from second for one of Faith's three runs and stealing second later in the game. It was the sixth time this year Donegan has batted 1.000 in a game. She said, "I have worked hard off the field with my batting so when I step on the field I'm ready to go."

Throughout the course of the game, Liberty frequently loaded the bases. Donegan made the final out in three such innings to hold back the rally, saving precious runs. She further displayed her defensive ability in the 2nd inning. With the bases loaded and nobody out, she fielded a sharply hit groundball and quickly fired home to save a run. Later in the inning, she caught a line drive off her shoe top for the final out. Donegan said, "It was a fun game for me. I got a few balls hit to me at shortstop, and I was able to get the bat on the ball. Overall I think it was a good game for me."

Donegan has had a lot of help from coaches and teammates throughout the years to hone her ability. Describing her coaches' influence, she said, "Overall, I have a very good combination of coaches. Head Coach Mark Jameson infuses us with spiritual leadership. Coach Matt Tuggey brings many years of softball knowledge, and we are very fortunate to have him as a coach. Coach Christen Lee relates really well to all of us because she was able to play at the college level at California State Polytechnic University in Panoma, California." She has also had help outside of her school coaches. "I have been on select teams for several years. Also, I take batting lessons, and my dad has been really helpful as well." The team dynamic is always an important part of sports, and Faith has a good one. Donegan further stated, "My teammates have been a positive influence this season. They are a great group and have been very welcoming to the freshmen. The upperclassmen have been so nice to me. It has been a great privilege and an awesome experience. I am blessed to be a part of the team." Faith softball begins post-season play this week against Tyler All-Saints, and with players like Taylor, look for them to make a run deep into the State tournament.