Hilbert Hawks announces Softball Team Awards Announced

From May 15, 2023 post.

The Hawks Softball team continued to grow as a team as the season progressed. John Hall developed a young team which included eight first-year players and only three upperclassmen in the starting lineup. Having graduated only three seniors, the Hawks will be in better shape next year with the additional collegiate season under their belts.

Coaches Award: Emma Gionta.  The 5-8 freshman catcher was a coach's dream.  She worked every day to give 100% effort.  Gionta led by example and never complained.  She was always ready to do what was best for the team, whether it related to fundraising, practice or game effort. She finished with 14 hits, 5 RBI, and nine runs scored while starting 26 games behind the plate in her rookie campaign.

Most Improved Player Award:  Mackenzie Catan.  The 5'7 infielder improved in every facet of the game this year.  She raised her batting average and made great strides defensively, earning a spot in the starting lineup at both shortstop and second base.  Catan finished the year with 12 hits, 4 RBI, and seven runs scored with a .327 on base percentage and the Hawks look forward to watching this dual-sport athlete next year.

Most Valuable Player Award: Bailey Budziszewski.  The 5-10 1B served as a team captain the last two seasons and is well respected by the players and coaches. Bailey worked very hard on all aspects of her game and her ability at the plate is obvious.  She finished the season with 22 hits, 11 RBI, two runs scored, led with eight doubles (.338) and and .462 slug%.  Just as impressive was her defensive ability, becoming one of the best first baseman in the league with a fielding percentage of .953. She was able to stride for amazing stretches off 1st base to record outs. 

Original source can be found here.