Haven needs one more out, and Haven is at bat. Junior pitcher Annika Slootmaker throws and strikes. Celebration ensues.

On April 24, the softball team played the Haverford Fords, putting up a good effort in a 9-0 loss. Slootmaker hit 300 strikeouts, a monumental milestone in her high school career. 

“I’ve gotten around a hundred [strikeouts], the past few years, so I knew it was somewhat close,” Slootmaker said.

Slootmaker has played softball since she was in elementary school and began pitching in middle school. 

Her catcher, senior Cassidy Diremigio, has watched her development through the years. 

“She has gained a lot of speed and momentum, and she’s consistently practicing and showing growth,” Diremigio said. 

Head coach Mr. Michael DeAngelo praises Slootmaker’s attitude, and how she has worked on her game throughout the years. 

“Even in some times of adversity, even if internally nervous or whatnot, she never externally shows any signs of nervousness,” DeAngelo said. “It shows that she’s taken the time on her own, individually, to improve her game outside of school ball.”

Slootmaker believes the team culture that has been built over the years at Haven has been a big factor in her performance and reaching this milestone. Her unwavering trust in her teammates has pushed her forward consistently.

“I don’t have to pitch strikes all the time,” Slootmaker said. “If the opponents put a ball in play, they’re going to fight behind me to do their best, even if they make a mistake, they’re going to try their hardest, they’re gonna put their all in.”