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Tammy Wray's plan last year was to go Lousiana State Universityan start on the softball team at shortstop in her freshman year.
Wray, a 2010 Somers graduate did start, but in an unfamiliar position. An injury to senior Jessica Mouse gave Wray an opportunity and she took advantage of it, earning the starting spot at third base.
Wray hit .247 with eight home runs and 33 RBI. Wray was second on the team in home runs and third in RBI, hits (41) and total bases (72). She also led the Southeastern Conference with 126 assists. LSU finished 40-19 on the season and qualified for NCAA Division I softball championships. When Jessica got hurt, they put me at third base to see how I could do, Wray said. Jessica worked with me, teaching me the position. I had never played third base before. There were times when I was doubting myself or I was struggling, but she talked me up, gave me confidence and helped me through it.
Wray had to make the adjustment to a position where the ball was on her quicker than a sneeze. She also found herself playing closer to the hitter, especially in bunting situations.
There were times where I overthought everything, she said. I finally felt comfortable once I had confidence in myself on and off the field.
Even though Wray didnt hit (.247 batting average) as high as she would have liked, she was satisfied with her season. Making the adjustment to college softball is tough enough, but having do so in the Southeastern Conference makes the transition even more difficult.
One of the highlights for Wray came when LSU swept league rival Alabama and good friend Cassie Reilly-Boccia. Reilly-Boccia is a Yorktown graduate and Alabamas starting first baseman.
Wray is anxiously awaiting her sophomore year and preparing to welcome a new coaching staff. While Wray still loves shortstop, she said she has taken a real liking to third base and could see herself there again next year.
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