Former standout Kentucky Softball catcher, Kayla Kowalik, added yet another feather to her cap as she was honored with the title of the 2023 Women’s Pro Fastpitch Rookie of the Year. The announcement was made during the league’s postseason awards ceremony held on Tuesday night in Talladega, Alabama.
Kowalik, showcasing her exceptional skillset, concluded the season with a commendable .394 batting average. This impressive feat not only earned her the Rookie of the Year title but also recognition as WPF All-Outfield. But her accolades didn’t stop there. The fleet-footed player from New Braunfels, Texas, ended the regular season leading the league in stolen bases with a total of 14. Beyond these individual achievements, Kowalik’s contribution was instrumental in pushing the USSSA Pride to a 18-16 record, ensuring the team secured the No. 3 spot in the upcoming WPF playoffs.
The two-time National Fastpitch Coaches’ Association All-American’s on-field prowess was further highlighted as she scored 27 runs from 43 hits over the season, reiterating her essential role within the team.
The USSSA Pride also boasts of another former Kentucky star, Abbey Cheek. Cheek’s remarkable performance this season included hitting five home runs and driving in 12 runs. These five homers put her at par with teammate Delaney Spaulding, leading the team’s home run count. Additionally, her 12 runs driven in secured her the third spot in team contributions, marking a promising trajectory in her professional career.
Fans of the Women’s Pro Fastpitch league are eagerly awaiting this week’s playoff semifinals. The USSSA Pride is scheduled to compete on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. The climax of the season will see the winners of the semifinals vying for the championship title in a three-game series set to take place between August 15-18.
As the playoffs approach, all eyes will undoubtedly be on Kowalik and Cheek. Given their track records and the accolades they’ve garnered, both players are expected to play pivotal roles in guiding the USSSA Pride towards potential championship glory.
