Growing up, Corynn Troxell never hesitated to try any sport. It helped her make her transition to softball

“When I was younger I loved playing sports, I loved to do any activity that involved me running or playing with a ball,” recalled Troxell. “When I found out about softball I knew I really wanted to play.

“I started playing softball at the age six for Hokey softball. I played for Hokey until seventh grade when then I started playing for Whitehall middle school and now playing for high school.”

Soon to be a junior, Troxell was the Zephyr starting third baseman this past season. She has been adjusting to her new role and a major step for her has been overcoming the metal aspect of the game.

“I think the biggest thing I had to overcome was my own mindset,” noted Troxell. “I put a lot of pressure on myself to have such a perfect game that if I made a mistake I would get down on myself. I would start to get negative thoughts in my head and it would lead to me playing worse.”

It has been a true trial by error.

“I have learned that softball is a game where you are going to fail,” added Troxell. “Rather you strike out, miss a ground ball, or make a bad throw, it has helped me realize that it is okay to make a mistake. And overcoming having a bad mindset not only helps me but also my team.

Head coach Jeff Vivian has been pleased with Troxell’s progress.

“For a sophomore, we feel she is finally hitting her stride, which is coming at the right time for this team,” emphasized Vivian back during the end of the regular season. “We worked on shortening her swing. Because she is a very strong person, she just needs to be quick to the ball.

“Defensively, we worked on her balance, and she has really come on strong on that side. She has been more balanced in her position and posture which has allowed for her hands to be quicker in the field and it has shown.”

Troxell likes her current role on the team.

“The role I see myself on the team is a positive one,” beamed Troxell. “I always try to keep a positive mindset and attitude. I also try to keep the energy up, whether I am in the field or the dugout cheering.”

She has seen a tight bond on her team. Their annual preseason trip to South Carolina again proved to be a positive experience.

“I think our team chemistry is really strong,” added Troxell. “Going down to Myrtle Beach really helps us all connect, not just playing softball down there but being able to do fun team bonding activities. We all just start flowing together as one team and I really enjoy that.”

Troxell also has been feeling better about her hitting. The Zephyrs finished the regular season with a 14-6 record, and they made the EPC and District 11 playoffs.

“I feel like I am hitting the ball pretty good,” said Troxell at the end of the regular season. “I have been working really hard this season on getting a better swing and having good contact. I feel like I have definitely improved a lot and I feel like that has shown in the past games.”

Over the years, Troxell’s parents, Todd and Erin, have been a steady stream of support.

“I think the biggest influence in my softball career has been my parents,” boasted Troxell. “They have always been there for me whenever I needed equipment or a hug. They always show up and give me all the support. I am thankful that they always support me no matter what happens during a game.”

With her second year under her belt, Troxell is confident her game will continue to improve.

“I felt comfortable with my game last year, during freshman season,” reflected Troxell. “I felt this way because I had amazing coaches that helped me grow and achieve new skill levels that I didn’t know I could achieve.”