When you come across a student who is incredibly relatable and has a solid GPA, you know you’re not wasting your time. But when on top of those things that person is an athlete, you know you have to be talking to a pretty great person. Senior Erynn Modena just happens to be one of those people.

“I started playing t-ball when I was about four, and I’ve been playing every summer since then. Softball came into play around 1st grade and I played in the Morton Grove League until about 6th grade. That’s when I decided to play travel softball. It was a big decision, but definitely a good one. It helped so much with my skills and I loved the extra challenge. I played travel up until I was able to try out freshman year for the school team,” she said.

Modena made JV as a freshman, and has been on varsity since her sophomore year.

“Sure, playing for school is always a blast, but it never seemed to be enough for me. During the off season I continued playing travel softball. This summer, I’ll continue with my last summer season on the Windy City Rage. I’m so far having a blast on this team and we were very successful last summer,” she said.

Not only does she have a love for the game, but she has a love for the strong friendships she’s made because of it.

“I’ve made some of my best friends playing softball. I’ve always been a very shy person but joining the travel team really forced me to make new friends, and I’m really grateful for that,” Modena said.

This year, Modena is looking forward to be the type of leader she used to look up to.

“As a senior, on a serious note, I want to be the best possible leader that I can be for the underclassman who may be pulled up to varsity, or even on the lower level teams. But I also want to make the best of the season. I want to spend time with friends, build character, and end on a good note,” she said.

Modena plays outfield and loves it.

“Honestly, I’m scared to play in the infield. I mean, if I had to I totally would, and I know that I could, but I just prefer the outfield,” Modena said.

Though softball has kept Modena extremely busy, every year she’s played has been a blast.

“Unfortunately, I have decided not to play softball in college, but the past fourteen years have been incredible and I don’t regret a single second of them. I am really grateful for the amazing journey and all of the memories that come with this sport,” she said, “Part of me wishes that softball was going to be a part of my future, but I am also ready to let go of it and find my next passion.”