COLLEGE SOFTBALL: NEWARK VALLEY'S WANDELL HEADING TO FREDONIA DIAMOND (2021-06-11)
BY TIM TAYLOR
Tioga County Sports Report
NEWARK VALLEY — The Newark Valley softball team was expecting to take their game to another level last year. Unfortunately, COVID-19 struck.
One of the premier players on that team, Allie Wandell, will now get the chance to take her game to a higher level next season — with the SUNY Fredonia program. She signed a National Letter of Intent here Friday to continue her education and career as a Blue Devil.
The Devils played just four games before the pandemic hit last year, but got 20 in this season. They went 9-7 in the SUNYAC (9-11) this season and Wandell is hopeful her competitive spirit will make her a good fit next season.
"I feel as though I have a hard working, competitive and focused attitude to offer on the field," she said.
Wandell's connection with the softball program helped make Fredonia a good choice.
"Fredonia is an academically focused school, but also has a competitive softball team," she said. "I really connected with the coach and loved his coaching style.
"Fredonia is a great distance from home and has a beautiful campus."
Wandell believes the overall college experience will help her develop as a student athlete.
"I hope to become a well rounded athlete and student," she said. "I hope to meet great people and earn an important role on the softball team through my hard work."
Not only was Wandell a key contributor as the Cardinals' shortstop, who was also a major role player with the volleyball and basketball teams. The spikers won the last two IAC Large School championships, as did the basketball team.
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Coaches' Comments
(Courtesy of NV Athletic Department)
Jason Monte, Softball: "Extremely knowledgeable and has a great understanding of the game. Covers a lot of ground in the field and has a tremendous arm. Her improvements in hitting this year with power and contact make her a very dangerous player. Continues to improve and get better every year and is willing to work and put the time in to succeed."
Kelsey O'Donnell, Volleyball: "She has a competitive spirit and drive that all coaches dream of, on top of natural athletic abilities that make her an all-around phenomenal athlete. I will miss her tenacious spirit and the impactful presence she had on her team, but know with certainty that she will be a great addition to the Blue Devils next year."
Greg Schweiger, Basketball: Allie has demonstrated that she has the athleticism and skill to excel at multiple sports. She is the consummate three sport athlete. She will bring a great work ethic and winners' mentality.
