In her world surrounded by the love of softball, Danielle Lilly's real world centers on balance.

Over the past four years, the Catasauqua senior has worked to maintain a sense of balance from her academics and school-related clubs, as well as her athletic side that has included cheerleading, soccer and softball.

In all, Lilly has managed to achieve an A average in the classroom, sustain her love for music as a member of the school choir, and develop her passion for softball. Along with those activities, Lilly is also a member of the school's Varsity C and German clubs. In addition, Lilly also works on the weekends.

Staying balanced and focused has created an ideal and productive lifestyle.

"I just try and balance everything," said Lilly. "I feel good about it and I like everything I do. Some days are much busier than others. Softball is my first love, but I really love singing. I have been singing since fifth grade.

"I used to have cheerleading and soccer in the fall, but I eventually stopped playing soccer. It gave me some free time, and gave me more time to concentrate on my grades. It really seems like everything has worked out."

Lilly also basked in the light of the team's record run to a Colonial League title and a district runner-up. A two-year starter at shortstop and a middle infielder her sophomore season, Lilly has recognized the different perception of her team this year.

"Every team will be coming after us," she stated. "Before we won the league, we were a team that mostly everybody didn't think too much of. Everyone will expect more, but we still have to take one game at a time."

Head coach Bobby Thomas feels confident having his shortstop back in the fold.

"Danielle (Lilly) works very hard and she has a great glove," said Thomas. "She has been one of our more steadier players over the past few years. She really loves the game, and brings that type of work ethic and attitude to practice every day."

During the offseason, Lilly took the initiative to work on her hitting. She made a few visits to The Hitter's Edge and also has worked on different techniques to improve that aspect of her game.

"I want to be a better hitter this year," said Lilly. "I feel very comfortable playing in the field right now, but I don't want to be pinch-hit for like I was last season. My fielding is my strong spot, but I have to be a better hitter this year."

Lilly likely will attend East Stroudsburg University next fall, Stroudsburg University next fall, and would welcome the chance to continue a softball career that began in kindergarten. It was then that she began playing at the same time with her twin brother, Donnie, who played baseball during same time for a period.

"What I really remember is having my brother playing at the same time as I did," recalled Lilly. "I would go to his (baseball) games and he would come to my games. We were both very supportive of each other. But he stopped playing (baseball) after eighth grade."

Lilly also credited Jose Matos and Thomas as having the biggest influences on developing her career through the years. That career will have one more opportunity to complete a solid high school career.

"We definitely gained some more respect," said Lilly. "We shocked some people last year. It will be a different atmosphere. This a different year and we aren't going to dwell on last year. We want to win another league title and get a district title.

"I know what I have to do to help this team get back there. But I just have to keep everything in its proper perspective."

Lilly certainly has gained a feel for that aspect.