Ohio Stingrays Fastpitch Organization:
Name: Kiersten Hull
Nickname: Kier
Hometown: Utica Ohio
Grad Year: 2027
GPA: 3.8
Travel Team: Ohio Stingrays 09
High School: Utica
Positions: Right Handed Pitcher/Shortstop/Utility
Height: 5 ft
Bat/Throw: Left/Right
Pitching Arsenal w/Speeds:
Fastball: 56
Screwball: 54
DropCurve: 53
Rise: 53
Drop:55
Change:41
NOTES:
My Spin and Movement has allowed me to play at the highest level;
From April to August I Pitched 61 innings with 47 Ks;
I Pitch for my school;
111 innings 147Ks .ERA 636;
Overhand Velocity: 62
Exit Velocity off Tee: 66
Home to First or 20 yds: 2.79
Intended Study Major: Undecided
Twitter: @12_kiersten
Who is Kiersten Hull?
I am naturally an introvert who loves hanging out with friends and working hard to be successful in all aspects of my life. Sports enable me to come out of my comfort zone. I am able to be competitive, goal/team oriented, as well as a leader when I am playing sports. I believe that being a part of something greater than myself allows me to keep life in perspective and to be grateful for the opportunities and talents that I've been given. I never take any opportunity for granted and I enjoy working hard to be the best teammate and student that I can be.
How did your softball journey begin?
I was 4 years old when my Dad had me hitting off the Tee. Joined my local T-ball team and loved this sport since!
What are your greatest strengths as a softball player?
My greatest strengths are :
Supporting and encouraging my teammates
My Hitting ability and versatility
My speed and aggressive base running
My quick feet and ball transfer to any base, along with my adaptability to play any position on the field.
"I would describe Kiersten as one of the hardest working players I've ever coach. She is tenacious in her preparation and it translates directly to the field. She plays aggressive and is always looking to take advantage of the slightest opportunity to put pressure on opponents. Her will to be the best player she can be is outstanding and she's a great teammate that leads by example.
I would describe her as a player that has an outstanding offensive skill set. She can hit for both power and average, but is also an outstanding bunter. Her combination of both power and speed makes her a true weapon at the plate that is extremely difficult to defend."
--- Head Coach Chad Dennis, Ohio Stingrays 09
What kind of hitter are you and what are your most recent offensive stats?
I am a left handed power hitter who can also bunt when needed and my speed allows me to get on base in a tight situation.
From last April to August i was hitting a 500 BA between my previous Beverly Bandit team and Subbing. I led the team in HRs, Triples, Walks, OPS, Runs, OPB, Slugging. Tied for doubles and Steals.
This Fall season with Stingrays:
I have a .408 BA in 6 Tournaments so far
14 RBls as 2nd batter
35 Runs
23 Stolen Bases
21 Singles
4 Doubles
4 Triples
17 Innings Pitched 14 Ks
Describe your leadership style and what characteristics do you find in outstanding leaders?
My leadership style is best communicated to my teammates, first through my actions and second by the personal relationships I build with them. I am naturally introverted but I show my teammates that I care because I work hard for them, both during season but also on my off season. My teammates know I care and they are not afraid to ask me for my opinion because I always show them a quiet kindness.
An outstanding leader possesses the ability to motivate individuals into believing that they have the capability to achieve greatness. They are transformational communicators who articulate how they want something accomplished in a way that everyone becomes invested. Outstanding leaders lead by acts of service, love and ethical codes.
You’re obviously very busy with so many activities and events in your life. How do you balance your life and manage your time so effectively?
I get up about 4:25 am almost everyday go into my garage and try to get some work in, sometimes hitting or just running on the treadmill, get ready for school, try to get my homework done in class, get home, relax, eat, take a nap, talk to my friends, and get back to work. I take weekly Pitching, Fielding, Hitting and Strength training lessons. I try to hit some games to support my school as well. Go to bed about 10 and do it over again.
Describe your game day mental preparation and your thought process and mindset in the circle and/or the batters box.
In preparation for game day I have to shut out the world. In doing so, I listen to music and let my thoughts wander away from the anxiety of the game. My mind stays clear when I am at bat and I focus on the things I have been working on during my off season. I concentrate on the pitcher and I allow my hard work during my batting lessons to guide me.
“She is the ultimate teammate, plays the game extremely fast with a very high softball IQ, cheers for her teammates success and competes every pitch. She has been a top of the lineup type hitter with her ability to hit, hit for power, slap and move runners when needed. Her elite speed and high IQ creates chaos on the base paths. On defense, she can play middle INF and CF using her speed, agility and arm strength to make difficult plays look effortless. She also brings another great capability which is the ability to pitch effectively at the highest level of the sport. Kiersten dominates the diamond because of tenacity, resilience and love of the sport."
--- Assistant Coach Dan Davis, Ohio Stingrays 09
What is your favorite sports memory and greatest achievement?
My greatest achievement is having played and still playing at the highest level travel team in the country and playing the best to push me to become a better player myself.
How do you handle adversity and even failure?
I try to stay focused, disciplined learn from the lesson and work on it, support my teammates, and move on to the next challenge.
How would your teammates and friends describe you?
I think they would say I am funny, fast, athletic, aggressive base runner, a good teammate and friend!
Ohio Stingrays 09
Who is your role-model and or idol and why?
My older sister Sierra Fletcher is my role model. She is the hardest working person I know. She played AAU for a National Team and was Ranked Top 50 player. She went on to play at a Division I NCAA, Longwood University on a Full Ride Scholarship, graduating with 2 degrees and staying above a 3.5 GPA. She is a travel nurse now and a trainer who helps with my workouts.
Kiersten with her sister Sierra
If you could spend a day with any softball player, former or current, who would it be and why?
Sis Bates. She just has that energy that everyone wants to be around and her skills
What is your softball dream/goal?
My dream is to play at the highest collegiate level while getting my degree and pursuing my career and possibly be a softball coach one day!
Describe your perfect softball team.
Having the same like minded teammates who want to compete at the highest level. A coach who cares, who's positive but also can get on us when we need that push.
When deciding on what college team to play for what are the most important things you’re looking for?
Team chemistry would be a great start. Having a coaching staff who cares about the players. Having the courses I need for my career.
What gets you hyped or ready before a game?
Listening to my music and focusing on positive energy
What is your favorite jersey number and why did you choose it?
I wear #12 proudly because my older sister had that number through school and college.
What other hobbies do you have to balance out softball and your personal life?
I draw, I play video games, talking to my friends, going shopping. I love shoe shopping! I also play volleyball. And spending time with my family.
Who would you like to thank for your softball achievements and support?
My parents for sure. Countless hours of driving me everywhere, taking time off work and helping me get closer to my goals. Definitely my coaches past and present. Each of them has taught me to become a better player and person.
Kiersten with her Dad
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ABOUT KIERSTEN:
Walk up Song: Pretty Boy Swag
Favorite Food: Mashed Potatoes
Favorite Song: Heartless by Kanye West
Favorite Music Artist: King Von
Favorite Sports Team: Texas Softball
Favorite Sports Celebrity: Sis Bates
Favorite Movie: The Grinch
Favorite Sports Movie: A League of their Own
Favorite TV Show: Criminal Minds
Favorite Book: The Outsiders
Favorite Travel Spot: Venice Beach Cali
Favorite Quote: "If something stands between you and your success, move it. Never be denied.” —Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson
Legacy & Legends Softball, Denny Lang; February 3, 2023