Annabelle Morningstar (2021 3B/OF) Grand Blanc HS & ICE Fastpitch
Annabelle made her RISE debut at the Michigan Preseason Preview Showcase on March 4th, 2018. At that time, Annabelle showed quick agile feet, w/ a projectable frame.
In March 2020, Annabelle returned to the RISE-Michigan Preseason Preview at Elite Sports Training in Dearborn Heights, MI to improve her measurable stats and to get a 2nd skills video created…and WOW, were we impressed! In a short time period, Annabelle rapidly grew and added muscle mass to her wirey frame. Annabelle instantly became a “Top Performer” as she showed off her quick agile feet, motoring a 3.01 Home to first (Top Performer) & a 12.15 Home to Home (Top Performer). At the plate, Annabelle showed a wider stance with a solid base and subtle leg lift. Her simple swing and approach produced consistent hard-contact; w/ line drives up-the-middle. In the field, Annabelle moves lightly on her feet, and showed plus range and athleticism. She showed a short transfer and arm action with a ¾ arm slot, and above average abilities to throw on the run. Her infield arm as measured at 58mph (Top Performer), and her outfield at 56mph (Top Performer).
In summation, Annabelle showed growth & maturity in her game, as she improved in every statistical category. With a strong work ethic and a desire to improve, Annabelle still has plenty of room to blossom!
Recently, RISE Softball was able to catch up with Annabelle for a brief Q&A:
RISE: Prior to the COVID-19, how were you preparing/ approaching your high school softball season (goals, mindset, etc?)
Annabelle: To prepare for the upcoming high school season, I was thinking about my individual goals and my teams goals for the season. Some of my individual goals were to get stronger, continue to improve my fielding, and to lead the team in hitting. Some of the goals I had for my team were to win our league, win districts like we did last year, win regionals, and win the state championship. I had a winning mindset coming into this season. I believe that this is one of the best teams yet, and that we were capable of making it to the state championship and possibly winning.
RISE: What was your initial thoughts once the announcement was made that the remaining school year and all sports are cancelled?
Annabelle: When I first heard about the school season getting canceled, I was super sad and disappointed. This was going to be my second year on varsity and I was very excited for what the season had to hold. Even though I was disappointed I had to miss out on my junior year of softball, I was especially sad for my senior teammates. I am going to miss the fun bus rides to games and how much fun we would all have together.
RISE: What have you been doing to stay prepared for softball?
Annabelle: Even though my varsity season was cancelled, I am still preparing for the upcoming travel season. To prepare for this I am working out every day and running or riding my bike to stay in shape. I also am going outside to throw with my dad, and hitting off the tee so I can keep improving my hitting.
RISE: What other things have occupied your time during the quarantine?
Annabelle: I have been doing many things during quarantine. The number one thing I am doing is working on my school work. It’s important for me to do well in school, so I work everyday on my classes to maintain a high GPA. I also have been spending time with my little sisters and doing fun things with them. After I finish my work, I catch up on some of my favorite shows and watch movies.
RISE: Favorite Softball Moment
Annabelle: There have been so many good moments throughout my softball career, but a standout moment is our team winning districts last year. This was the first time since 2013 that Grand Blanc Varsity had won districts. I was so proud to be a part of an amazing team. What made it even better is that I made the All District Team as a utility player. This was such an exciting moment for my team and me.