(Photo courtesy of Lillian Reid)
During their trip to Florida, softball pitcher Erica Ralfs became the St. Ambrose Softball career strikeout leader when she struck out four players in game one of a doubleheader at Webber International on March 19th where the Bees fell twice. The previous record was set by Janelle Cook in 2001 with 312 total strikeouts.
“When I think back on the strike out, it’s in slow motion. The final strike to take the record was a curveball low on the outside corner, beautifully placed, and the batter watched it go by. I was feeling a lot of emotions at once, but mainly just an extreme appreciation that I was able to play this game my whole life,” said Ralfs
She says breaking the record “validates all those hours practicing, lifting, and watching how other dominant pitchers get it done. A lot of work went into breaking this record, and it’s finally paid off!”
Although, this season is not all about breaking records, but about the little things such as spending time with her teammates, soaking in the pregame energy, and savoring the small successes in every game as it is her last season playing the game.
“My teammates are the reason I show up every day! They always supported me through, keeping the energy light and reminding me of my skills. They are my greatest supporters and best friends, I wouldn’t be anything without them,” said Ralfs.
(Photo courtesy of Lillian Reid)
The Davenport fifth-year senior records 340 strikeouts in her college career, 64 during this current season, and with 12 more games to go, she is looking to extend the gap further.
As it is her last season ever, Ralf reflects on her past self, “This experience really makes me think of my twelve-year-old self working hard every day to be a competitive pitcher! She never would’ve guessed this is what would come out of all those hours of work.”
She is also looking forward to helping other girls reach their full potential as she says, “The older I get the more I realize true success is not defined by my own journey, but by how I can influence and help others in this sport (softball). That’s how I want to truly create my legacy.”
With playoffs beginning in May, Ralfs and her fellow Bees are looking to earn a spot in the CCAC Conference tournament. Currently, Ralfs is in fourth place for the most strikeouts by a pitcher in the CCAC.
The Bees will take on Trinity Christian (A), Calumet St. Joseph (H), St. Francis (H), and Indiana South Bend (A) for their last conference games.
(Photo courtesy of Lillian Reid)
See Erica’s record-breaking play in SAU Weekly here.
