Rockford senior Katie Lawton has been exceptional at scooping out throws in the dirt at first base, while also contributing numerous timely hits for the Rams this spring. (Brian Forde | Advance Newspapers)
ROCKFORD – Whether she's putting runs on the board with one swing, or preventing them from scoring with one scoop, Katie Lawton has provided the Rockford softball team with a boost in a variety of ways this spring.
“Katie has been having a solid season for us, both offensively and defensively,” Rockford coach Brad Thomas said. “She does a great job at first base, and handles balls throw to her in the dirt on a constant basis.
“Katie has been steady for us at the plate, as well. She has developed into a patient and disciplined hitter this year.”
The senior first baseman has provided the Rams with some timely power throughout the season.
“Katie has had some timely hits for us during the season, but her biggest highlights of the year are the home runs she has hit for us,” Thomas said. “She has developed into a solid hitter.
“She makes the appropriate game adjustments that allow her to be successful the second and third time she sees a pitcher.”
Lawton also has become a valuable piece to the Rockford infield.
“Katie has saved several outs at first base by digging balls out of the dirt,” Thomas said. “She has matured as a softball player, understanding that when a play doesn't go your way, you have to learn from it and be ready for the next play.”
Lawton was a role player for the Rams as a junior before taking on a leadership role this season.
“She did a very good job in her role last year, and put in a lot of work in the offseason to improve her hitting, and it has paid off this season,” Thomas said.
“She is constantly asking and looking for ways to improve her game offensively and defensively, and she makes those around her better by pushing herself in practice. When the other players see her working so hard and being accountable, they follow suit.”
Thomas said that Lawton takes her leadership role seriously as one of the team's four captains.
“Katie's greatest strengths are her work ethic and the love she has for her teammates,” Thomas said. “She is one of the best teammates another player could want to have. She is compassionate, driven, and accountable as a teammate.
“Katie leads by example and is willing to speak up when necessary to help the team. That is why she is one of our captains this year.”
Rockford finished third – behind league champion Hudsonville and No. 2 ranked Caledonia – in the OK Red Conference, and was 15-15 overall after 30 games.
“I believe the OK Red Conference is one of the toughest softball conferences in the state of Michigan from top to bottom,” Thomas said. “We have definitely had an up-and-down season this year.
“I believe this team has grown from the ups-and-downs, and has come together as a team, which puts us in good position for the state playoffs. We need to keep our focus on what we can control and not worry about what we can't.”
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