PACE — Samantha Kummer knows where she will be going following graduation from Pace High School.
Kummer opted to play softball for Northwest Florida State College in Niceville after recently signing to play for the Raider softball team.
Kummer, who was also active in the school’s swim team and school activities including drama, yearbook and television production, took time to answer a few questions.
What went into your decision to play college softball for the NWFSC Raiders?
After the last game against Niceville (High School) our regional quarter final. I did really well that last game. So (NWFSC) emailed my coach and they emailed me. We went and toured the campus. My mom, dad and me were sitting in the car and we really liked this. It just felt right to all of us.
What are your plans outside college softball?
I’m planning to major in elementary education. I am just going to get my general AA degree (at NWFSC). I already have about 39 dual enrollment credits. I think I am going to slow down, maybe play one year or take two years then transfer to a bigger school.
How do you anticipate your new team will use your skills?
They were really impressed with my hitting, but I think they want to use me as an outfielder. I haven’t played outfield this season, but it will work out. They said as long as I am hitting, (the NWFSC coach) has to find me a spot in the field somewhere.
Reflecting on your time with the Lady Patriots softball team, what will you remember the most?
The support system of people. It really boosts my confidence when I see people in the crowds … who don’t have any relationship ties to anyone, but they are there because they want to watch the game. That is the biggest thing I like to remember. The program this year turned around for the better; it’s going in a good direction, so I am glad I could be part of that.
Do you feel the ground work is set for the softball program under Coach Greg Rice following his first year as head coach?
Yeah, definitely. It was a real young team this year. We only had five seniors and three of them started; the rest were sophomores. There was only like two juniors. I’m glad I could be part of that and help move it in the right direction.
What have you learned from your time with the Lady Patriots that you plan to take with you to NWFSC?
Coach Rice helped us enjoy the game. One of the biggest things he said this year was ‘we want everyone to love the game again.’ I think I have learned how to just be comfortable on the field. How to just play for your teammates, play for your coaches and play for yourself. I learned this as I have played over the years: You are going to play better if you are playing loose and relaxed, having fun and enjoying the game. That is the biggest thing is to just enjoy the game.
This article originally appeared on Santa Rosa Press Gazette: Pace High softball slugger talks support and future plans