Jane Armbruster admits that she has gotten over her share of hurdles in her softball career. One major one was overcoming the fear of the ball.

“When I first started, I used to be afraid of the ball,” reflected Armbruster, who started playing in fifth grade. “I used to get hit a lot. But as the years went on, I gained more confidence.

“Once I got to high school, I really felt good about everything.”

An outfielder, Armbruster has been a steady force in the Rough Riders’ lineup. This season, she is currently leading the team in batting average (.462), runs scored (3) and hits (6). Armbruster credits her success to a connection with head coach Paige Kogelman, one she has appreciated since her freshman year.

“Paige really helped me and gave me confidence,” stressed Armbruster. “She spent a lot of time working with me. She is the reason I am doing what I am today.”

Kogelman has appreciated her player’s commitment and dedication.

“She is passionate and extremely hardworking,” offered Kogelman about Armbruster. “She puts in tremendous effort outside of practices on her own time.”

Armbruster credits her mother, Theresa, who played at Bethlehem Catholic, as being instrumental in her career. She has always been an outfielder but also has played in the middle infield.

As well as developing physically, Armbruster gained strength in her mental approach.

“I gradually have developed the mental state of the game for me,” said Armbruster. “I know that I have become a better player.”

The senior is confident the team can make another run in districts this season despite the loss of some key senior players. Catty advanced to the second round of districts last season.

“It was a very good season for us,” she recalled. “Our seniors played a big role, but we have a good nucleus back. We believe we can get back to districts and go deeper. We were all so close last year, and we really had a good team bond.”

Armbruster believes a major part of the team chemistry is due to the senior class playing together for quite some time. She has played with teammates Delaney Troxell, Sophia Becker, and Jordan Soltis over the years. Armbruster also has relished a leadership role on the team seeking to influence the younger players who have played roles on the team this season due to injuries.

Whatever the final outcome of the season, Armbruster plans to continue her softball career at Cedar Crest College next season and pursue a degree in early childhood education. In addition to basketball, Armbruster played volleyball for four years.

“I liked Cedar Crest because it was a small school close to home,” she said. “I want to be a teacher, and also stay active with the sport. I want to stay in it somehow because I love it.”

The Roughies began the week with an overall 1-3 record, missing a number of games due to the rain. They have a busy week ahead beginning Tuesday with games against Salisbury, Executive Education Wednesday, Pen Argyl Thursday, and Notre Dame Saturday.

Armbruster realizes her career is winding down.

“These four years have really gone by fast,” she stressed. “We didn’t play for a while, but we worked hard. We’re looking forward to getting back, and we like our chances to get back to districts.”

And Armbruster will be a big part of it.