Afton’s Haily Ervin
Afton High School’s Haily Ervin is a junior this year and a member of the slow-pitch softball team. Ervin has played first base for three seasons and is hoping to make it a fourth as a senior. To play first base, you must be able to catch anything thrown your way.
“The strength of my skill is that I can dig almost any ball thrown my way, whether it’s in the dirt or above my head. I have definitely improved on fielding and knowing exactly where the ball needs to go,” said Ervin.
Playing both slow and fastpitch softball, Ervin said she uses her time in slow-pitch to help on certain skills she can use in fastpitch.
“I do play both slow and fastpitch. I like to work on my timing and waiting on the ball. I have a problem with getting too excited and being too early on the ball, so when I get the chance, I like to work on my timing and hitting the ball straight on,” said Ervin.
As a member of both teams, Ervin said she loves her teammates and loves to compete.
“What I love most about my team is that they are some of the funniest girls I’ve played with. We get upset at our play but turn around and support our teammates. We are still a really young team and have a lot of potential, and I love their drive to finish something they’ve started,” said Ervin.
Ervin said the support the team receives means a lot to her and the team.
“The support from my coaches and fans means a lot to me and the rest of my team. Even if we are having a bad game, our coaches never blink an eye to encourage us to not give up and give it everything we have, as well as our fans,” Ervin said. “My parents are also a really great source of support; they try to make it to as many games as possible, but even if they aren’t there, they are always waiting for me to get home and tell them exactly how the game went.”
Ervin plans to move to Arkansas after graduation and continue her educational pursuits. “After high school I plan to move in with my aunt in Arkansas and pursue the nursing field for labor and delivery. But I would love to continue softball if given the chance; but it’s all in God’s plan,” said Ervin.
