The Softball America Spotlight: 2027 Bella Ascanio
As Softball America grows its coverage at all levels, we continue our recruiting spotlight series with Bella Ascanio, a right-handed pitcher from Kansas who throws nothing but speed on the mound.
Name: Bella Ascanio
Primary Position(s): P
Class Year: 2027
Hometown: Pittsburg, Kansas
Travel Ball Organization: Building Champions Peppers – Wallace 16U
What is your favorite travel ball memory?
It was back in 10U. We played in a July Tournament in Kansas City and it was super hot like 95 degrees. We came up through the losers’ bracket and played six games all back-to-back to get to the championship game. We only had two pitchers and we took second, but I absolutely loved that day even though it was so so hot.
What’s the most important thing you’ve learned from a coach?
One practice during some of our classroom time, we talked about understanding that softball is something you do. It’s not who you are. I’ve practiced and played year-round since I was eight years old and softball is definitely a huge part of my life every single day but it doesn’t define me as a person. Talking about that has really has helped me a lot.
How did you get interested in softball?
My mom signed me up for T-ball when I was four and I’ve always played since. I remember playing other sports but always enjoying softball the most.
What are your strengths as a player? What are you trying to improve on the most?
I think my strengths are my energy and my work ethic. I’m working really hard to improve my pitching IQ. I’m learning to chart pitches and learn more about pitch calling and strategy.
What player(s) do you look up to the most?
Bri Ellis. She’s a first baseman and power hitter for the Razorbacks. I think she is awesome. Montana Fouts, too.
What are your favorite hobbies outside of softball?
I love to read novels, to listen to music and sing. I also really like to lift weights.
What excites you the most about playing college softball?
Knowing that I could continue to play softball and also get an education while I do it is really exciting to me.
The post The Softball America Spotlight: 2027 Bella Ascanio appeared first on On3.
