Caleb Riordan | Ameritime Sports Writer
It was a tough ending to a solid year for Hillsboro Hawks’ softball. They finished 18-10 but suffered a heartbreaking loss in the district championship. It was a season with a lot of success but also plenty to work on for the future. The seniors of Hillsboro softball did their best to set an example for the future. Ryleigh Hindle is a big part of that group of seniors.
Hindle appeared in 12 games for the Hawks this season. She went 8-25 in those games which gave her a batting average of .320. She knocked in five RBIs, had two doubles and scored five runs. She had an on-base percentage of .346 and a slugging percentage of .400. She also stole one base.
Q: How did you get started in softball?
A: I started playing softball in second grade just to try it, but it ended up becoming a sport I absolutely love to play.
Q: Who have been your biggest influences in softball, either directly or indirectly?
A: My parents and coaches have inspired me the most because they taught me to always work hard and have believed in me even when I might not have. Oh, and Yadier Molina inspired me to want to catch when I was young, even if I play outfield now.
Q: What is one moment in your softball career that stands out to you the most?
A: My most memorable moment in softball was during a select game with bases loaded and I dove over the fence to rob a grand slam.
Q: When softball is over for your career, what do you think we’ll see you doing with your life?
A: As for what comes after this year, I plan on going to Mizzou to major in journalism and minor in political science.
Q: What schools are you considering and do you plan to continue your softball career in college?
A: I won’t be playing for the college, but I might play for an intramural team. Softball has been such a huge part of my life, so I don’t think I can give it up so easily.
Q: To all of the little ones that have dreams to do what you’re doing, what’s the best advice that you could give them?
A: For anyone just getting started, hard work and kindness will get you a lot farther than just pure talent. Be willing to try something new if your coach asks you to. And, at the end of the day, remember to play for the love of the game.
