Lincoln right-handed pitcher Ashtyn Rothrock's dream of playing college softball became a reality early last week when she signed a financial aid agreement to continue her career at Ecclesia College.
This season, Rothrock led the Lady Wolves to the 4A-1 Conference Tournament title and the Class 4A state quarterfinals. It was the deepest postseason run for the school's fast-pitch program.
On the mound, Rothrock finished 17-4 with a 2.40 ERA and 149 strikeouts in 145 innings. Although Ecclesia signed Rothrock as a pitcher, she also led Lincoln in batting average (.477), doubles (4), home runs (5), runs (28) and RBIs (28). She was named to the All-NWA Democrat-Gazette second team and was the All-Washington County Enterprise Leader Player of the Year.
Rothrock chose the school in nearby Springdale over interest from Northeastern State in Tahlequah, Okla., and Crowder College in Neosho, Mo.
"I chose Ecclesia because it seems like a good school for my first couple of years," Rothrock said. "They are friendly, caring, and of course, it's a Christian college so I get to learn more about God. And I also didn't want to rush into a big school especially since I came from a smaller high school."
By "first couple of years," Rothrock means that she intends to look for a college with more to offer academically. She's possibly going to pursue a major in secondary education and one day become a coach.
"Ecclesia doesn't have a lot of degree options, so I just want to widen my options," Rothrock said. "I'll probably go to NSU or another school that's local, or not like super far off. I don't want to go too far away from home."
Despite the lack of degree options, Rothrock is certain she can improve as a pitcher at Ecclesia.
"Pitching-wise, I want to get faster," she said. "We have great coaches at Ecclesia, so they should be able to help me. Right now, I'm hitting 62 [mph], so I'd like to get up to 65 at least."
Sports on 06/22/2016