Baseball Player Magazine

You’ve met their best kept baseball secret in last seasons’ issue and now it is time to meet “Westhampton’s Best Kept Softball Secret,” freshman and All-Conference Second Team honors recipient, Alyssa Clancy.

This 5’5 freshman lefty has certainly made her mark in her first season with the Panthers. As pitcher, outfielder and dominant force at the plate, this “triple threat” was named Skyline Conference Rookie of the Week in four of eight weeks. Alyssa has caught the eye of coaches, players and fans alike with her impressive 2010 season.

How long have you been playing fast pitch softball?

Real fast pitch softball would be since seventh grade, but I’ve been playing softball since second grade.

How did it all start?

I signed up for recreational softball when I was in second grade with MYO. I had so much fun with it I continued playing.

What was it about Old Westbury that drew you to play there?

It was the team. They played very well together when I came to see them and they made it to the final round of playoffs, it was really a combination of things. The coaches also had a lot to do in making my decision to play at Old Westbury. They were (and still are) incredibly nice; they were helpful with everything, and I could just tell that they knew what they were talking about.

Who is your softball idol(s)?

I always loved Jennie Finch ever since I was little. She actually signed the glove that I use now. I also have to say Cat Osterman; being a lefty herself got me to be a big fan as well.

What is your favorite softball memory to date? 

It has to be when I went to the Dot Richardson Fantasy Camp in Florida. I got the chance to play with some of the biggest stars of softball for an entire week. It was an incredible experience!

What advice would you give to players out there who next year will be playing their freshman seasons?

Just to go out there holding your head up high. You know what your doing with the game, it has gotten you this far and most importantly, don’t forget that you love it.

You excel both on the mound and at the plate, what is your favorite part of the game?

I love hitting, it’s so much fun!

When you are getting ready to start a game, what is running through your mind? How do you stay so focused?

I try to keep my mind clear of everything as I’m warming up. When I’m on the mound, I automatically have nothing but my focus on the batter at the plate.

What would you say to the young girls out there that are thinking about playing softball?

Give it a shot. Go at it with nothing but fun in your head and you will have an unforgettable time out on that field.

Birthday: May 14, 1991
Favorite Pitch: Curveball
Pitch Speed: 57 to 60 mph
Favorite Pitch to hit:  Any inside pitch