Softball: LoDolce Signs to Play For New Haven

GiGi LoDolce made a name for herself as one of the better athletes in this year's Harrison graduating class. Now she will bring her skills to New Haven where she intends to play college softball.

An all-league and all-section softball player, LoDolce was also named fifth team all-state after her senior season. She was awarded the "Wind Beneath My Wings" award at the Harrison senior athlete awards banquet for her toughness while fighting through several injuries just to compete. During graduation week LoDolce was even chosen as Harrison Patch's female athlete of the year.

Needless to say, Harrison sports will miss her next year.

But our loss is the University of New Haven's gain, as LoDolce has decided to play softball with the Chargers next year. She will join a team that finished last season in the Division II top 20. Also, with only one other catcher on the roster, LoDolce will have the chance to compete for playing time immediately.

"I would like to be the starting catcher for U.N.H. next season," said LoDolce. "I haven't discussed playing time with my college coach yet, but if I have to compete to be the starter I am fine with that because I have been doing it for 10 years now."

Although the New Haven Softball team has a proud tradition on the field, the school is also known for academics, which was important to LoDolce while making her choice.

"I heard about the school through my forensics teacher," LoDolce said. "I want to be a crime scene investigator and when I did more research on the school, I found out that they are one of the best schools in the nation."

LoDolce has never been one to shy away from hard work and effort. The catcher has had chronic knee problems for the majority of her career, this summer included. LoDolce had to leave her summer team because of another injury earlier this summer, but she hopes to be healed by the time she goes to school.

Judging by her track record, that shouldn't be a problem.