“I am excited for the season to begin,” says Kyra Lockhart, one of the top 2017 prospects in the country as she gets ready for her first year of high school ball to begin at Scotch Plains-Fanwood High in Scotch Plains, N.J.

“I am eager to meet new people and get extra practice,” the slugging infielder explains.

In her latest blog for StudentSportsSoftball.com, the Univ. of Alabama commit shares her goals and excitement about transitioning from club to high school play,

We first met Kyra, a first baseman with the Jersey Intensity, last fall at a Surf City showcase and were not only impressed with her powerful stroke on the field, but her personality and energy off of it.  When she said she loves to write, we knew she’d be another great blog writer for StudentSportsSoftball.com!

Click here to read Kyra’s earlier blogs and those from our other standout players!

Also, check out our video interview of Kyra done in early October

 

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As my Jersey Intensity season begins to wind down, I focus my attention on high school softball.

Due to the small town I live in, softball is not popular and we do not have a strong program. Many girls in my high school play for the love of the game, but most do not wish to play on a collegiate level.

However, I am still excited for the season to begin. Since this will be my first year, I am eager to meet new people and get extra practice. During the season, I can fine-tune my skills on first base and also work on third base.

Not only will I hope to play these two positions; I also hope to play shortstop as playing shortstop will increase my arm strength and even my speed and agility too.

I can always improve in every aspect of my game, but my main focus is on my mental game. The mental game is such a key part of softball and gives you the result of having success or failure. Every at bat in high school will be a chess match.

New Jersey has a wide range of softball programs and the caliber of pitching will vary from team to team. This will be a key part in my development as a player. Hitting various types of pitches day in and day out helps with my skills in adjustment that will enable me to work on my bat speed, timing, and pitch selection.

High school softball will also help me build my leadership skills. Leadership skills are key inside and outside of the diamond. This season I will strive to be a leader on the field and off the field.

At Scotch Plains-Fanwood High School, my goal is to make an impact in our program that will help with our success as a unit. Although we may not win a state championship, I will treat every day as an opportunity to learn and get better. I am excited to begin a new journey and make new friends!

Go Raiders!

— Kyra