Bensalem senior Lauren Morell was recognized for signing a letter of intent to play softball at La Salle University.
Lauren Morell – La Salle University (Softball)
Major: Mathematics/Secondary Education
Reasons for choosing La Salle: “I only ever really considered La Salle. I knew from the start that I didn’t want to go to a school that was far from home, and as soon as I stepped on campus, I was in love. Not only is it a beautiful campus, but it’s a great school. In addition, many previous Sports Connection girls are on La Salle’s softball team, so it was comforting to know that I would have immediate friends and that they loved the school too. Overall, La Salle was everything I hoped it would be, and I can’t wait to play for them as an Explorer.”
What was the progression that led you to playing softball at the collegiate level? “Once I joined Sports Connection my sophomore year, coach Bob Notarfrancesco, Tom Razler, Bill Stocks, Biz Keeny, and Gerry Mauro really pushed me to improve my skills and immediately started the recruiting process. I always had a passion for the game, but their rigorous training successfully set me apart from the rest.
“It was the summer of my sophomore year when my older sister, Jackie, committed to play softball at Kutztown University. I was extremely happy for her because I knew how hard she worked, and just a week later my hard work paid off as well. I was noticed at one of Rick Waye’s showcases (whom I now play for), and that’s where I met Coach Shoemaker. I’m extremely thankful for the constant support from my dad, mom, sister, coaches and teammates; I wouldn’t be the person or player I am today without them.”
Coach Dan Schram says: “Basketball coach Larry Brown always stressed ‘Play the right way.’ That statement is subject to several interpretations. In my opinion, Lauren plays the game the right way. You have to embody all of the details to be the total player. It starts with believing in yourself, being humble, paying attention to details, being kind to everyone around you, loyalty to your family and friends, doing your schoolwork to the best of your ability and giving everything you have in practice.
“Lauren not only follows through in all of those areas, she is a very talented athlete. She is a wonderful young lady. La Salle is getting a great player and an even better person.”
Sports Connection/William Tennent coach Biz Keeney says: “The thing that makes her such a good player is her work ethic, and she’s a very, very good listener. A lot of times when you get kids, they’re very set in their ways, and that’s human nature. I think she’s really developed her entire game, and she’s become the player she is by working hard. She’s a very, very intelligent young lady as well.
“I’ve had an opportunity to coach her as part of our program, and I’ve also coached against her, so I’ve seen Lauren from both sides. You get a real good respect for a kid’s ability when you coach against them. For me, it’s been enjoyable working with her and not so enjoyable working against her.
“I think she’ll have success at the next level because of her willingness to listen and do the things that it will take her to be successful. She’s worked really hard on hitting, and she’s really developed as a hitter. That’s what has impressed me in the years I’ve known her. She’s caught quite a bit, she’s played some first base, and she’s played some outfield. There’s flexibility as to what she can play. I think she’s going to be best suited for the outfield at the next level. She runs fairly well, she’s got very, very good arm strength, and I think that would be the best fit for her. The fact that she has some flexibility will get her on the field.”
About Lauren:
Favorite food: Sushi
Favorite movie: Pitch Perfect
Favorite music: Rap
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