Stars Fastpitch (New Jersey):
Name: Sydney Leshnower
Nickname: Syd
Hometown: Colonia, New Jersey
Grad Year: 2026
Travel team: Stars Fastpitch
High School: Colonia High School
Positions: Outfield
Height: 5’2"
Bat/Throw: Left (slapper)/Right
Overhand Velocity: 46
Exit Velocity off Tee: 55
Home to First: 2.96 - as of October 2022 (verified electronically timed)
Intended Study Major: Undecided
Email: sydneyleshnower@gmail.com
Twitter: @sydneyleshnower
Instagram: sydneyleshnower2026
Philanthropy: Mallory's Army https://t.co/duH2qMy4jt
Who is Sydney Leshnower?
I have grown up in a very athletic family. Dad – Marc, Mom – Sabrina, Sister – Alyssa, 11. I am also a multi sport athlete and run Winter Track. Along with that, I love spending time with my family, friends, and teammates.
How did you begin your softball journey?
I began my softball journey when I was 7-years-old. I started on 3 different travel teams before making the move to club. My parents, teammates and all my coaches are the reason I am where I am today.
What are your greatest strengths as a softball player?
I am a slapper with a lot of speed, along with many stolen bases and great defensive plays in the outfield. I am also a very coachable athlete and an uplifting teammate.
“Sydney Leshnower is an intense competitor and all around complete player. Syd is a dynamic lefty and base runner with elite level speed. Her ability to read and track down a fly ball in the outfield is unmatched and also has a big arm. Syd is an amazing athlete and even better person/teammate. She’s got big things in her future.”
--- McKayla Timmons, 2022 USSSA All-American Head Coach,
Softball Player, Ball State University
What kind of hitter are you and what are your most recent offensive stats?
I am a contact hitter. My fall 2022 stats; 33 games played, 91 at bats, .374 batting average, .452 OBP, 34 hits, 19 RBI (2 hitter), 42 runs scored, 46/50 stolen bases.
“I have been coaching Sydney for the last 5 months, here are my thoughts. She is not only a hard worker at practice but she works continuously on her own becoming a better player and athlete. Right handed thrower and lefty batter Sydney’s game is all about speed. Whether it’s a slap base hit or tracking down a fly ball, she is one of the fastest players here in New Jersey at the 14u level. Very coachable and a smile that will light up the room. Sydney has a great future ahead of her. It has been my pleasure coaching her and watching her improve these last 5 months.”
--- Coach Gary Bury, 14u NJ Stars Head Coach
Describe your game day mental preparation and your thought process and mindset in the batter's box.
I walk in the batter’s box with a clear mindset and just focus on hitting the ball and running as fast as I can.
What is your favorite sports memory and greatest achievement?
Winning back-to-back tournaments this fall and finishing 29-3-1.
How do you handle adversity or even failure?
Shaking it off, being a good teammate, and getting back to work.
How would your teammates and friends describe you?
Fast, hardworking, determined, nice, leader, dedicated.
“Sydney is one of the most hardworking girls I’ve ever met! She’s so dedicated and gives her heart and soul to the sport. Even though we spent a short amount of time together, I quickly learned that she is so sweet and a great teammate. No matter what she always has a great attitude and always is cheering you on. Sydney sets goals and is always determined to reach them. She’s a skilled, talented ball player and an amazing friend!”
--- Payton Vanzant, 2022 USSSA All American Teammate
Who is your role-model and/or idol and why?
Kendra Falby, because she is also a slapper/outfielder. She plays the game hard and gives 100% effort on every play.
If you could spend a day with any softball player, former, or current who would it be and why?
If I could spend a day with one softball player it would be Kendra Falby, sophomore at University of Florida. I had the chance to meet her last year and I think it would be really fun to spend the day with her!
What is your softball dream/goal?
My dream is to play college softball at the University of Florida and to play professionally, but I would love the opportunity to play anywhere that feels like right.
Describe your perfect softball team.
My current team is perfect, because everyone is supportive, uplifting, we challenge each other to be better, play well as a team, and we have as much fun together off the field as we do on the field.
When deciding on what college team to play for, what are the most important things you’re looking for?
Some of the things I’m looking for are a warm location, good academics, and I want to be part of a team where I fit in, can grow, and can contribute.
What are your favorite college softball teams?
University of Florida, LSU, University of Texas, University of Missouri, Rutgers University.
What is your favorite jersey number and why did you choose it?
My favorite jersey number is #23. I chose #23, because of former New York Yankee, Don Mattingly, who was my dad’s favorite player growing up.
What other hobbies do you have to balance out softball and your personal life?
I enjoy baking, spending time with my family, friends, and teammates. My team has a very close bond, so whenever we all spend time together, it is so much fun! I also run track.
Who would you like to thank for your softball achievements and support?
I would like to thank my parents and sister for all the motivation they give me when I’m playing and practicing. Along with that my teammates and coaches. They push me hard at every game and every practice to be better and to keep working hard!
Leshnower Family
Extra Information:
I donate $2 for every stolen base to Mallory’s Army, which is an anti-bullying foundation (https://mallorysarmy.org). Dianne Grossman started this foundation after her daughter Mallory committed suicide. With the help of friends and family, I have raised over $1,000, which I was able to donate. I am continuing to support this foundation throughout the season.
Mallory's Army: Sydney with Dianne Grossman
Additional Information About Sydney:
Walk-up song: Coming in Hot
Favoire Food: Pizza
Favorite Sports Team: Florida Gators Softball and New York Yankees
Favorite Sports Celebrity: Jennie Finch
Favorite Sports Movie: Twelve
Favorite Travel Spot: Florida
Favorite Quote: “You’re the only one standing in your own way.” - Sydney's father
Legacy & Legends Softball: January 29, 2023; Denny Lang