Leonard joins northern movement, joins Spartan softball program
As a prelude to the softball season opener Tuesday, South Putnam senior Sabrina Leonard was able to get something important done and dusted Monday night.
Following in the steps of a former teammate, Leonard will be suiting up for the Spartans next season after signing on to play for Manchester University’s softball program beginning in the 2022-23 school year.
“Brionna Egold really inspired me for it,” Leonard said about her former Eagle teammate. “She introduced it to me and then me to the coach.
“When I went to the campus, it was wonderful. Just the way I want college to be like.”
Leonard, who will look to major in elementary education and minor in coaching, said the homely feel of Manchester made it an ideal place to continue playing softball.
“Family is a lot of it,” Leonard said. “There’s a lot of team bonding because the campus is so small and you’ll know everyone.”
The Spartans have been in a funk on the softball diamond in recent years with their last winning season coming in 2016, though the current squad has already matched last year’s win total, currently sitting at 6-10 after a four-game win streak.
“It’s up-and-running; it’s upcoming,” Leonard said about the program. “They didn’t have a great season last year but they’re getting more players in to benefit the system.”
As to where she will be playing at, Leonard said that discussion had not yet taken place but added the coaching staff had seen her in play so there was an idea of where she might take root.
“I’m not sure yet as I haven’t been given a designated spot,” Leonard said. “(Manchester head coach Sara) Emerich has seen me catch and pitch, so likely one of those spots.”
Having the signing done before the season opener against North Vermillion Tuesday was also a weight off her shoulders.
“Getting this done now means I’m not playing to impress someone,” Leonard said. “I can play for fun.”
As with any college athlete, Leonard said the workload would be tougher but it was up to her to keep on top of things.
“Keeping on task and time management will be important once the season starts,” Leonard said. “Not being home all the time will also be different.
“Getting a sleep schedule and getting work done one time is important. We’ll have study tables but you still have to do the work on your own and be accountable.”
With the signing done and the 2022 softball season ready to get underway, Leonard said she would be enjoying her time piloting South Putnam in the right direction but was also eager for what awaited in North Manchester next fall.
“I’m pretty excited to be going there,” Leonard said. “It will be a new adventure to get my foot in the door.”