Catasauqua’s Mikayla Bird admittedly wasn’t interested in playing softball, but it took TV games to change her mind.

“I originally got into the game when I was in middle school,” reflected Bird. “My parents were always trying to talk me into playing but what really sparked my interest was when I started watching softball games on TV.

“I liked watching Penn State and Oklahoma games, and that really sparked my interest.”

Bird, a junior, was an integral part of the team last season, as she played third base and shortstop. She hit .271 with 13 RBIs and a .691 OPS and a .403 OBP. Bird was a starter on a team that went to the second round of the state Class 2A playoffs and finished with an overall 12-11 record.

This season, Bird as taken over the mound duties for the Roughies replacing consistent veteran Delaney Troxell, who took her talents to Millersville University. Bird has pitched some in the past, but she is in a new lead role.

Bird is among a few returnees to this year’s team, and it has been a slow start due to the team’s inexperience. With the season winding down, the girls are 0-10.

Bird has also struggling at the plate, but has maintained a positive outlook.

“We lost a lot of players last year and we gained a lot of new ones this year,” offered Bird. “Coming into this season as the pitcher was very unexpected, as I have very little pitching experience, but I was willing to take on this leadership role for my team.”

Bird credits her parents, Tim and Jamie, for their constant support.

“I don’t think I would be the player I am today without the influence of my parents,” said Bird. “They really shaped me into the athlete and person I’ve become. I see this year’s team as a rebuilding one to say the least.”

First-year head coach Erica Proctor has seen Bird as a key player this season.

“Makayla is a leader with great knowledge of the game,” said Proctor. “She has a great commitment to become a better player and teammate.

“The biggest adjustment she has made is her mental game. Knowing how different pitching is to other positions, her approach had to start with her mental toughness and digging deep to get us out of tough situations.”