Herkimer Softball's Ladd Named NJCAA All-American

Herkimer County Community College softball player Kayla Ladd (Fonda, NY/Fonda-Fultonville Central) was recently named a First Team All-American by the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA). She received the honor as the Utility/DH representative on the First Team.

            A freshman, Ladd was the only member of the 2010 HCCC softball team who started and played in all 37 games. She saw action in the outfield, at first base, as DH and behind the plate. She led the team in doubles (12), runs (41), RBIs (53) and hits (53) while hitting two home runs and swiping 15 bags. She was second on the team in batting average, hitting .449.

            Head Coach PJ Anadio said “Kayla was one of those players that you just couldn’t take out of the lineup. As the season went on, it was evident that she was a player and a force. It seemed like every time we needed a big hit, she was standing in the batter’s box and she always seemed to come through. Without Kayla on our side, I’m not sure we would have even finished .500 this year.”

            Ladd has prepared herself to be successful in game situations, especially focusing on the mental aspect of the game. Her development as a player was directly associated with her development off the field. Anadio, who was active in Ladd’s development off the field, explains “Kayla has grown so much in the past year as a student-athlete, player and human being. She has evolved before my very eyes into an extremely positive role model for young kids and is a terrific young lady. Kayla made a commitment to improve at everything that’s important outside of softball – grades, community service, family and just her overall wellness. This ultimately rolled over onto the field as well.” Despite her successful season, Anadio expects her to come back even stronger next season.

            The Generals ended the season with an overall record of 21-14.