Captain, unsung hero named at softball banquet last week

The Lady Longhorn softball team held its end-of-year banquet Monday night, where the honorary captain and unsung hero were named.
The captain was voted on by her teammates.
“I have them remember that captains should be those who model good character, sportsmanship and teamwork,” Head Coach Denise Smith said.
The unsung hero award is chosen by the coaches—Smith and assistant coach Jordyn Haake.
Honorary captain
Junior Ryley Vrbas was named honorary captain.
Vrbas was a key part of the Longhorn defense.
She spent most of her time at first base, getting her hands on the ball the majority of games.
Vrbas finished the season with a 0.911 fielding percentage and a .305 batting average.
“Ryley is encouraging and always helpful,” Smith said.
Unsung Hero
Senior Valerie Herbert was named the unsung hero.
“I chose Val because she came to softball her sophomore year from volleyball and had to learn how to throw, bat and catch again,” Smith said.
Herbert was out last season with an injury.
“She always tries to work on and improve her skills,” Smith added. “She doesn’t always bat and sometimes doesn’t play on defense, but when she’s there, she is doing those little things like backing up every play that often goes unnoticed,” Smith said.
Smith said Herbert kept a good attitude, tried her best and focused on what she could do to improve the team.