NAPPANEE, Ind. – The Goshen College softball program made a step in the right direction as Interim Athletic Director Doug Yoder announced the signing of their first recruit for the 2009 season in Danae Nafziger.
A NorthWood High School (Nappanee, Ind.) product, Nafziger is beginning her second varsity season for the Panthers. "I am really excited for her as she really deserves it," explained NorthWood Head Coach Ryan Mattern of his senior outfielder. "She is our hardest worker, the first to stay after for extra hitting. I expect big things from her this season and in her future."
An infielder growing up, Nafziger was moved to the outfield upon high school and has thrived, racking up 23 putouts as a junior. Known for a good eye, slap-bunting skills, and discipline at the plate, Nafziger tallied 10 walks in just 75 plate appearances, while scoring nine runs for the Panthers.
The Maple Leafs are getting a true competitor and student of the game in Nafziger who says "I have a love for the game, passion, intensity, and competitiveness. Going onto the softball field is an adrenaline rush, it's being competitive enough to win, having passion and heart for the game...that is the most important success."
Off the softball field, Nafziger is busy with extra-curricular activities, which have included eight years of involvement in 4-H, six years in the Dairy Feeders Club and three years in the Swine Club.
In the classroom, Nafziger is planning on majoring in nursing and hopes to eventually move into a career as an emergency room doctor. With a passion for those less fortunate Nafziger says, "I would like to travel to a third-world country to volunteer my time in helping the needy... I want to make a difference in each person I see."
Yoder, who has taken over day-to-day operations of the softball team while a search for a new head coach is underway explained, "We work extremely hard to recruit and add quality student-athletes like Danae from local schools. We are excited that she has chosen to stay close to home and compete as a Maple Leaf."
Check back to this site for the latest news and team information, including recruiting signings. To contact Interim Athletic Director Doug Yoder, call him at (574) 535-7495 or click here to send him an email. |
Danae Nafziger