In Wednesday’s 7-6 loss to Newell-Fonda, Gehlen Catholic junior Kenadee Sitzmann made some history with her at-bat in the top of the first inning.
Her home run broke Kayla Hatting’s 2009 record for home runs in a season with her ninth of the year. Sitzmann says the pitch itself was a bit tougher to get around on, but she knew it was a good swing.
Last year, Sitzmann slashed .235/.371/.294 with nine RBIs and just two extra-base hits as a sophomore. This year, Sitzmann slashed .380/.463/.887 with 26 RBIs and 17 extra-base hits. She says no changes were needed with her swing, but she did prioritize getting stronger in the offseason.
Her head coach Tony Kerkvliet says that focus on work in the offseason shows when she steps up to bat during the season.
Sitzmann says this record is made even more special because of the big leap she made from last year to this year.
Unfortunately, the home run came as part of a season-ending loss in the postseason, but the Jays will certainly look to make some noise next year. Sitzmann says her class is motivated to take another big step heading into next season.
Gehlen ended the year with a record of 14-11.
