NDN Athlete of the Week winner from March 3-15: Gulf Coast softball player Hannah Rearden – Naples Daily News

Each week during the school year the Naples Daily News selects athletes that stood out the week before based on a combination of coach reports and school nominations sent to sports@naplesnews.com and our coverage. Those athletes are put in a poll each Monday on naplesnews.com and you, our readers, vote on who you think did it best. The winners of the Naples Daily News Athlete of the Week poll sponsored by Elevate Home Services receive a T-shirt provided by BSN Sports and a tote bag provided by USA Today High School Sports Awards. To get to know our winners better, the Naples Daily News will have a question-and-answer session with each athlete weekly.
The Naples Daily News Athlete of the Week sponsored by Elevate Home Services for March 10-15 was Gulf Coast softball player Hannah Rearden. Rearden edged out Aubrey Rogers lacrosse player Kellan Dellaposta by 223 votes, winning with 6,596 votes (38.94%).
Question: How early did you get into softball? What drew you to the sport?
Rearden: I have played softball since I was 10, so almost 7 years. My sister played first and I decided to try and ended up putting on the catchers gear and never taking it off. And now I’m committed to play in college, Columbia International University.
What has this hot start been like for you and your teammates?
Rearden: This year has been so much fun. My team has bonded well because we’ve had a go hard or go home mentality all year. My bat has given a hand in some close games and seeing my team’s reactions to either a home run or a double have been absolutely priceless.
Do you have a pregame ritual or routine?
Rearden: Prayer has been so important. This is not done as a superstition but a true conversation with Christ. I take warm ups super chill and just try to relax and be myself.
Do you have a softball player, current or former, that you look up to?
Rearden: I look up to former UF and Olympic catcher Aubree Munro-Watson. She is also my current catching coach. She’s helped with the mental and physical aspects of the game.
If you weren’t playing softball, what sport would you be playing?
Rearden: I would like to either throw shotput or try basketball. I think shot put would be a little more natural.
Follow Sports Reporter Alex Martin on X: @NP_AlexMartin. For the best sports coverage in Southwest Florida, follow @newspresssports and @ndnprepzone on Instagram.

source