Kiryn Lunsford named HFL Junior Co-Player of the Month for December

The Heart of America Fastpitch League (HFL) is excited to spotlight Kiryn Lunsford as the October Co-Junior Player of the Month. Lunsford is a Utility player, third basemen and pitcher for Aces 12u National.

Softball Story (How did you get started? Tell us about you-

I started playing T-ball when I was 6 and had never touched a softball. A flyer was sent home from school and my parents asked if I wanted to try it. I ABSOLUTELY LOVED IT! After my first season it was all I wanted to do! When I moved up to 8U, I was still in rec ball. My coach put me in the circle for the very first time. I was terrified and excited at the same time. After that my parents got me into lessons and that is when I decided to try pitching. It has not been an easy process but with a lot of hard work and dedication I started to figure it out. I tried out for a travel team and made it! It is the team that I am currently on. I have learned so much from my teammates and coaches that I would not be where I am today without them! I can’t wait for what is to come!

Favorite Softball memory-

My favorite softball memory is when I played at the USA Softball Hall of Fame stadium in Oklahoma City. I remember walking out on the field that all the professional athletes play on and being in complete awe! It was definitely a moment I will never forget.

What do you like to do outside of softball?*

I like to play Volleyball for ClubNet. I also really enjoy school. I currently have straight A’s in all my classes and my favorite subject is Math. I LOVE school.

What are some of your current goals – both on and off the field? (Softball, school, other athletics, related, etc. all welcomed!)

I have worked very hard to be consistent with hitting my spots while I’m pitching. My goal is to combine speed with my accuracy. I would like my velocity to be consistently in the high 50’s to 60 mph by the end of 12U. My goals off the field would be to maintain straight A’s in advanced placement classes while being a multi-sport athlete.

Coaches Feedback-

Seeing Kiryn earn Player of the Month for October is no surprise, as this is well deserved. I have had the privilege of coaching Kiryn for almost 4 years now. The progress she has made over the years is a testament to the work she puts in each week, and her competitive drive to continue to improve.  Kiryn is one of our aces in the circle and brings so much versatility to our team.  Kiryn will do whatever is ask of her, and she is truly a team first player.  No matter if she’s in the circle dominating games, playing 3rd, in the outfield, crushing line drives or on the bench, she is always vocal. It is easy to be a leader when you are playing well, it is when the game is not going your way that true colors show. Regardless of game outcome, Kiryn stays vocal and supports her teammates. She is the definition of leader for her team.

It is obvious that Kiryns softball talent shines, but it goes well beyond softball. She is a genuinely kind and respectful young lady and is a true joy to be around.  Over the years, I have learned a very important lesson about Kiryn‚ you don’t mess with her when she is eating steak and potatoes!! Great job kiddo. We are so proud of you, keep grinding. Go Aces!

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.