BFA-St. Albans Comets’ freshman pitcher, Irie Shedd, led the team to a win over Missisquoi Valley Union on May 1, allowing two hits and striking out three while in the circle. At the plate, Shedd had three hits and drove in three runs.
Q&A with Irie Shedd
What two things have you most enjoyed about playing varsity softball for the Comets? One of the things I’ve enjoyed most about playing with the Comets is definitely the team culture and how everyone clicks so well on and off the field. The other thing that I’ve liked so much about playing softball for BFA is the competitive spirit that the coaches and players all have, not just wanting to win, but also wanting to get better as a team.
How have your varsity coaches helped prepare you for playing softball at the D1 level? The coaches have definitely prepared me by instilling the work habits and support I’ll need to succeed at the collegiate level. Having practice and/or games every day of the week has helped me create a schedule and manage my time well, which is definitely a skill I’ll need. Also, having a different coach on the team for each aspect of the game–pitching, catching, hitting, fielding, and outfielding–has helped me really focus on improving all my skills.
What three goals do you have for your first varsity season? Three goals I have for my first varsity season are to help the team win a state title, build relationships with coaches and players, and fine-tune my pitching and hitting skills in practice and games.
Comet softball coach Bert Berthiaume: Irie is a young lady who has been passionate about softball for many years. She has trained hard to become the player she is at such a young age. It’s not easy for a 14-year-old to step onto a varsity team. She has handled the transition smoothly. She’s a humble young lady and has fit in with this outstanding group of varsity players, who have welcomed her with open arms. Her performance against MVU was superb. She got a taste of what a great Franklin County matchup is like, pitting two excellent programs against each other, with great support from both communities. She handled the moment, excelling in the pitcher’s circle and at the plate. On the mound, she gave up two runs while striking 11 batters. At the plate, she had three hits and drove in three runs. She put the Comets in the lead in the second inning with a clutch 2-out hit to give the Comets the lead. I’m excited to coach her for the next four years, not only because she’s a good player but also because she’s a wonderful young lady.