Sports
On the Beat With Kate Short
I interviewed Virginia native Kate Short, who just finished playing her first season of professional softball.
Yesterday, I had the pleasure of interviewing Kate Short. The Virginia native just finished her first season of playing professional softball.
Short started playing softball at a young age. As a youngster, she attended a National Pro Fastpitch game between the Chicago Bandits and the Washington Glory. She might have thought playing pro softball was a dream, but seeing the NPF game showed it could be a reality. Years later, it would become her reality.
While still in her early teens, many colleges recruited Short, but she ultimately chose James Madison University in her home state.
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While with the Dukes, Short racked up many records and had many career highlights. Her biggest moment probably came during JMU's run in the 2021 Women's College World Series. On the biggest stage, Short connected on a game-winning home run in the opening game against top-seed Oklahoma. This is the stuff of dreams.
Short talked about all of this and her path to the Smash It Sports Vipers of WPF. Talking openly, Short discussed feeling a bit of fear in playing pro ball. I loved hearing that and I am sure young players will take a lesson from that.
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Those youngsters are a big part of the reason Short is playing pro softball. Perhaps a much as she wanted to play, she also wanted to grow the game and encourage young players, like her sister, an infielder at Penn State University. Short's passion for the game is palpable.
In addition to playing, Short has coached youth teams for a couple years. She also started a real estate career.
We talked about the future of WPF. A new team in Oklahoma City has been announced for next season, joining the Vipers and the USSSA Pride. Short shares my hope another team will be added.
As I told Dalton, my pal and I thoroughly enjoyed a WPF series between the Vipers and Pride in Peoria, Illinois. While we would love a team or even games in Chicago, we will go to more WPF games next season, wherever they play.
I thank Short for her time and consideration. Learn more about Short and the WPF at WProFastpitch.com.
