Neuqua Valley senior pitcher Sydney Benedict doesn’t only paint the corners.
Benedict started painting entire pictures around the time she joined a travel softball team about nine years ago.
“It’s really helped me be able to zone out of my mind,” she said. “It’s a great way for me to relax on those days off. As soon as you walk into my house, you will see a bunch of them all over.”
Benedict, a Framingham State commit, has pitched a bunch of innings for the Wildcats this season following the graduation of ace Ava Drehs, who is already making an impact at Creighton as a freshman.
“Coming into the year, we only had three pitchers on the team,” Neuqua Valley first-year co-coach Jamine Turner said. “With her being a senior and pitching a little last year, we talked about her role on the team and her being our go-to pitcher. She’s really taken to that role.”
Among Benedict’s highlights over 61 innings, she pitched a complete game in a win over Yorkville on April 8, and she has helped the Wildcats (11-9, 8-3) stay within striking distance of DuPage Valley Conference leader Naperville Central.
“She’s done a great job,” Turner said. “She’s managing the game and throwing a lot of different pitches and mixing things up and keeping hitters off-balance. Sydney’s pitching pretty good for us.”
Benedict, who logged 46 2/3 innings in the circle last season, said she spent considerable time in the offseason working with her pitching coach and getting stronger to handle the rigors of a larger role.
“Last year was really cool being able to come after Ava,” she said. “She’s such a great pitcher. I definitely looked up to her. She is one of the best pitchers I’ve seen be able to keep their composure.
“I knew this year was going to be my year. I had to get into that mindset. I was a little nervous coming into the big spot. I had big shoes to fill. It was a pretty intimidating position.”
Neuqua Valley sophomore corner infielder Cora Dickson said Benedict has been able to rise to the occasion.
“She’s got great leadership skills and is strong mentally,” Dickson said. “She makes sure everyone is always locked in but also having fun. Sydney is always encouraging her teammates and is there to lift them up.”
Neuqua Valley junior catcher Tegan Spellerberg, who calls Benedict’s pitches, agrees with Dickson.
“Sydney always stays positive no matter the situation,” Spellerberg said. “She focuses on the team and never herself. … She’s a great teammate and makes sure everyone is included and supported.”
Benedict, who aspires to be a teacher and has worked with preschool kids this year, is focused on helping the Wildcats win games.
“I like competing, and we play in a tough conference, so you have to adjust to each batter and team,” she said.
Benedict shouldn’t have any difficulty doing that, according to Spellerberg.
“Her adaptability is amazing,” Spellerberg said. “She always finds a way to grow from her experience.”
Bobby Narang is a freelance reporter.
