Walking through the tunnel on May 12, 2025, brought many tears to the faces of the HSE softball seniors. This group of six remarkable athletes has had an outstanding season, marked by teamwork, dedication, and memories that will last a lifetime. Although emotions were high, this isn’t the end of their journey, it’s the beginning of a new chapter.
Chloe Smith, the team’s left fielder, thrives on competition. In the fall, she will attend Indiana University to major in marketing. Her favorite memory was playing in the state game, with her entire family there to cheer her on.
Emmy Seifferlein, center fielder, will be continuing her softball career at Indiana Wesleyan University while studying nursing. Emmy cherishes the experience of wearing “Royals” across her chest and the countless memories made with her teammates over the past four years.
Makena Burlingame, the team’s third baseman, will attend Florida Atlantic University to study Medical Biology. Her favorite moments include long bus rides and the conversations shared with teammates. She is grateful for the opportunities softball has brought into her life.
Leah Paris, a first baseman, will attend Indiana University to study nursing. Her favorite memory is the road to state and especially teepeeing Coach Emily Pusti’s and Coach Casie Fletcher’s houses.
“The importance of having fun and not taking things too seriously,” Paris said. “If you put all your worth into this sport, you will drain yourself.”
Brooke Bauer, second baseman, is heading to Purdue University in the fall. She aspires to help athletes through physical therapy. One of her proudest accomplishments is playing for HSE softball all four years and being accepted into every college she applied to.
“I have learned countless things while playing for the HSE Softball Program,” Bauer said. “The biggest thing is the importance of teamwork and the value of supporting and connecting with my teammates both on and off the field.”
Maya Valenta, another first baseman, will attend The College of Wooster to continue her academic and athletic career. Her proudest achievement is committing to play softball at the collegiate level.
“I’ve learned that it’s important to stay true to the player that I am,” Valenta said. “All that hard work pays off.”
“These seniors have the kindest and most genuine souls,” Pusti said. “They truly are passionate about the sport itself but always put their teammates first.”
