Senior Tatum Vitek plays center field for the Lovejoy softball team. This last season has been a big one for her as she is coming off of a season-ending injury from last year. Tatum loves hanging out with her friends and is a leader of FCA off the field. She is planning on attending Auburn University after she graduates.

Pre-Game:

Warm-up: Stretch and throw

Walk-up song: Let’s Get Loud by Jlo

Go-to drink: Energy drink or Diet coke

Favorite snack: Pretzels

Post-Game:

The Red Ledger: When did you start playing Softball?

TV: When I was 7 years old. I think I was in 1st grade.

TRL: How has the season gone so far?

TV: Pretty good, we’re 8-1 in district so far. We beat some really good competitive 6A schools so far like Aledo, but lost to Melissa.

TRL: What are your goals for this season?

TV: To compete for district champs and make a competitive and deep playoff run.

TRL: How would you describe your team?

TV: We’re very energetic, we have lots of energy. We’re also very close and supportive on and off the field, and we’re hard workers.

TRL: What has been your biggest challenge this season and how did you overcome it?

TV: My biggest challenge has been bouncing back from an injury… Last year I tore my ACL. I had to lean on my teammates and family who were a great support system, and find ways to stay motivated through physical therapy

TRL: How did it feel to hit a home run exactly one year after your injury?

TV: It was very fulfilling and like a full circle moment, and it was a great feeling that all of my team was excited for me too.

TRL: Is there anything you want to tell others about your experience or something that you have learned overcoming this challenge?

TV: I’ve learned to be a good teammate on and off the field, and that there is so much more to a sport than the actual game itself.