Someday, Briana Deschaine figured she would be playing softball for Catasauqua.

She watched her older sister, Hailey, a catcher, became a Rough Rider’s standout and continue her career at DeSales University.

It was a matter of time for the younger Deschaine, who also is a catcher.

“I started playing softball because I looked up to my older sister,” said Brianna. “She played softball, and it looked like so much fun to me. The sport intrigued me, and I wanted to learn more about it.”

The younger Deschaine recalled how her softball trek began.

“My parents signed me up for Tee-ball when I was five,” noted Deschaine. “Then continued playing until I was eligible for softball at seven. I played for a rec softball team in Whitehall until I experienced enough to join a travel softball team.”

Yet, the bond with her older sister has continued.

“My older sister continues to have the biggest influence in my career,” added Deschaine. “She played well, and it inspired me to play softball. She still comes to my games to cheer me on, and is very motivating to me.”

Unlike her sister, being a catcher has been a new experience for the current Rough Rider, who is adjusting with each game. Through her first 11 games, Deschaine was hitting .222.

“I have not played where I am now,” said Deschaine. “I have been inexperienced at one point and very unmotivated at different points. I still push myself to want to get better than I have been. I have practiced on my own time.

“I have become emotional at points because I care and value the sport. I have used my emotions as a motivation to push myself harder, and go beyond my boundaries to get out of my comfort zone.

“All of my mistakes, struggles, and failures have made me the player I am today.”

First-year head coach Erica Proctor has been impressed with Deschaine’s effort and work ethic, realizing she took over for three-year starter Sophia Becker.

“Her dedication to always continue to improve is why she is a leader on this team,” said proctor. “She is a great player and teammate. She also is willing to help out her teammates with her knowledge of the game.”

Deschaine knows her team is learning on the run, and she is ready to play her part.

“I see the team as inexperienced, and they need to learn more about the game than what it seems on the outside,” said Deschaine. “I know this because I have played softball for so long. Some girls haven’t been playing that long, and they are all at different skill levels.

“I see my role to motivate the girls to get into better mindsets to get better than they are now. I’m well educated in the sport from my experience and can help direct the team well.”