Q: Can you discuss what it’s like being the lone senior on a Swan Valley team that is normally loaded with upperclassmen?
A: It’s definitely odd being the only senior this year and having so many young, first-year varsity players on the team. I’m used to being one of the youngest and having so many upperclassmen to look up to, but now that’s my job for the rookies coming in.
Q: Being the only senior, what kind of advice do you give to some of the younger players on the team?
A: Being the only senior, I just want to be a good role model for the younger girls on the team. They’re all in a different position than I was when I was the youngest on the team, because I was used to having so many seniors and juniors above me. It was scary but an honor. I know how nervous the rookies on the team were when they first started the year, especially the pitchers, since they’re both freshmen. All I have to say is, work your hardest at practice and don’t get down when you have a bad play on the field. Pick your head up and make the next play count. Four years goes by fast, so make every moment worth it.
Q: Early in the season, you have been clutch at the plate for your team. How cool is it to have a walk-off hit to give your team a victory in its last at bat?
A: My walk-off homerun against Mt. Pleasant was probably my favorite part of the season so far. They have always been good competition for us, as we’ve played them in districts every year since I’ve been on the team.
Q: How strange is it knowing that you are heading into the final month of school and knowing you will be wearing the uniform for the last time?
A: It’s bittersweet thinking about how this is my last month of high school. I know even though I am really excited right now to start the next chapter, I will be sad when it comes down to the final days of high school. What I will miss most about high school is being a part of the softball team at Swan Valley.
Q: What is your biggest fear at the plate or in the field?
A: I would say I’m more confident at the plate this year than any year before. I got a lot stronger over the winter and worked a lot on hitting the pitches that I struggled with last year. My biggest fear at the plate is being under pressure when it comes down to being the last batter, with two outs, in a close game.
Q: How cool has it been to be able to play for such a legendary coach as Tom Kennelly?
A: It’s been an honor to be coached by a Hall of Fame coach. TK has taught me a lot and has helped make me a better player. I give him a lot of credit for my accomplishments.
Q: What are some common misconceptions about TK that some people might have?
A: TK is known to be intense, and some people may say he’s “scary.” It’s how he is, and I’m sure that’ll never change, even if he tried to calm down. Some people may get the wrong impression of him that don’t know him personally. It’s his way of coaching, and there obviously isn’t anything wrong with it, seeing how successful him and his teams have been.
Q: Being such a sports fan, what are some of your favorite teams and why?
A: Some of my favorite sports teams are the Detroit Red Wings and the Detroit Tigers, because how can you not root for your hometown teams? The Los Angeles Angels, because Mike Trout is my man, and any University of Michigan sports team….GO BLUE!!
Q: What are some of the things you are going to miss about being a Viking?
A: Once a Viking, always a Viking, but I will miss putting on the jersey every spring, that’s for sure. It’s something special to be able to wear purple and represent Swan Valley. I’ve been blessed with such amazing teachers, coaches, and classmates, and I will definitely miss it.
Q: Finally, what does the future hold for Paige Churchfield?
A: In August, I will be starting my journey at Lourdes University, where I will further my softball career and major in biology to get my veterinary medicine degree. It’s a perfect fit for me, and I can’t wait to start the next chapter of my life as a Gray Wolf.