Emmerson Cope named HFL Co-Player of the Month for July

The Heart of America Fastpitch League (HFL) is excited to spotlight Emmerson Cope as the July Co-Player of the Month. Cope is a pitcher and first baseman for Aces Fastpitch. Cope is committed to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.

Cope threw 20 strikeouts and maintained a 1.33 WHP in the month of July. Her success in the circle moved to success at the plate as Cope ended the month with a .561 batting average, a .600 on-base percentage, and 23 RBIs. Her 13 singles, 6 doubles and three home runs led to her impressive .976 slugging percentage.

Softball Story (How did you get started? Tell us about you-
I have been playing since I was four years old. My older sister also played softball and for as long as I can remember I have always wanted to be like her and that included the sports she was involved with. As a little 4-year-old I was not good at softball at all. I got cut from my teeball team and then again at 10u. I could not find any team to play for and when I finally did I realized that I wanted to prove everyone wrong about my abilities. A coach took me under their wing and taught me the ropes to be successful. Every time I practice I learn something new and that is why softball is fun, it is so versatile. The game has given me so much and I will forever be grateful for that and all of the wonderful people I have met throughout the way. The Taylors have one of the biggest impacts on my life. Before I joined the Aces I never have been in the type of environment they create. It is one of the hardest things I have had to go through but the most rewarding at the same time.

Favorite Softball memory-
My favorite softball memory would have to be this 2022 summer season. I have never felt this close with a team before. I truly met my best friends this year because of this awesome sport and I will always remember that. Before each game, we would always have a dance party/battle. I also like to think we created the .5 post-game photo. I feel extremely sorry for (Coach) Taylor as we were inseparable from each other. Another memory I also have is this year’s high school softball season. We ended the reigning softball champions win streak. We also finished 2nd at State and that whole experience was awesome. Playing in front of a bunch of people made me realize how this sport is so giving.

Coaches Feedback-
Emmerson Cope is the epitome of a coach’s dream. She represents character, work ethic, and academic achievement. Her commitment to greatness is carried into everything she does. I’ve had the pleasure of coaching her for the past two years, and seen her grow over that time. As one of the most feared hitters in the country, balls come off her bat differently against the best pitching. In addition to her offensive capabilities, Emmerson has grown into a leading arm for the Aces organization. She is able to control hitters with her off-speed pitches and can deceive hitters with her spin. She meets every demand head-on and embraces the grind of greatness. She leads by example and pushes all of her teammates to new standards. She handles pressure well and is very stoic when on the field. With all of her softball success, what is most impressive is who she is as a person. As mentioned early, her character is impeccable – you will never find her speaking poorly of a teammate or a coach. She is more than committed to the team as a whole. So excited to see her continue to have success and beyond happy about her recent commitment to Nebraska! She’s a great kid and has one of the coolest senses of humor! –Taylor Taylor

What is the Alliance Fastpitch Player Recognition Program?
The Player Recognition Program was built to recognize and spotlight our individual players in each Member League. Each month, registered Alliance Fastpitch coaches can nominate a player from their age division. League Leadership will review nominations and a monthly stats report from AthletesGoLive (AGL) to determine the League’s Player of the Month.

Following the announcement of each League’s Players of the Month, the Alliance Fastpitch will recognize a National Player of the Month.

To be considered for Player of the Month, your team must score League games in AGL so your stats will be included in the League’s monthly report.