So You Think YOU Can Pitch?

Katie Gooch
Aug 25, 2017 · 2 min read

When I was 9 years old behind the plate, there was nothing I love more than being a left-handed catcher. My podiatrist on the other hand, told my parents I would have much trouble with as flat as my feet were. He also, told me to limit activity, and thank God we didn’t listen.

During my second year playing I made the Lake Elsinore All-Star team as a catcher/outfielder. What made me a young powerhouse was my ability to crush the ball if I could be patient enough to wait for the ball. The most excruciating part about making the All-star was waiting for the“yes” or “no” whether we made the team or not. That summer was one for the books, I was honored to play with such talented athletes, especially since I was one of the younger players. This summer is when I decided I wanted to be a pitcher.

We were playing our last tournament in Pomona, CA which was the ultimate defining moment for me, but it came down to the pitcher who inspired me — her name was Nubia. She pitched the entire weekend, and 6 games in one day to win us the Championship. That left a lasting impression on me, that would drive this burning obsession that I wanted to be a pitcher. Even in first grade I drew Olympic rings, but didn’t know for what sport yet- which my teacher proceeded to talk to my parents hoping I wasn’t too much of a “dreamer”. When I found softball, it was like everything connected and was aligned. It wasn’t always like that, and there were many times my mom had to push me by saying “if you don’t practice then next year we won’t play.” That was enough to start the engines, and from there I was gung ho about pitching.

Greatest part about me starting out as a pitcher, is that I was TERRIBLE. Couldn’t hit the broad side of a barn, and parents would complain, because I was dangerous on the mound in other ways. After, a few pitching lessons and the ability to spot pitches, I was on my way to dedicating my life to pitching.

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Katie Gooch

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#BOSSLADY, MOTIVATIONAL SPEAKER, WSET 2 Certified, Interior Stylist, Writer, Thinker, + Former Pro Athlete.