By Sue Moore
Senior Katie Parker, Schoolcraft’s first-base player, has signed a letter of intent to take her talents to Western Michigan University (WMU).
Katie played first base for the majority of the 2019 season according to coach Shane Barry. Due to teammate injuries, Katie also played 12 games at shortstop. Last season she hit third in the lineup with a batting average of .437, including 52 hits, 51 RBIs, 48 runs, 19 walks and eight homeruns. Defensively, Katie also helped the team with a fielding percentage of .930, 3 errors on 43 chances. These stats are why Katie was named honorable mention All-Area Dream Team, first team All-Conference, first team All-District, and first team All-State.
“The ultimate teammate is a good description of Katie,” Barry said. “Her willingness to help the team any way she could by moving to shortstop for 2-3 weeks was huge for our team and its success. She is constantly encouraging, helping, and having conversations with her teammates. During the off-season, Katie has helped the new freshmen feel welcomed and part of the team. She truly loves and cares about her teammates.”
“As one of the most coachable kids I have ever had, Katie’s potential for her senior season and in college is very high. Katie is always training to improve and learning more about the game; very responsive to instructions,” Barry said. Parker for her part said the new coaches last year lent a lot of enthusiasm to the team. “It was fun coming to practice and that made us better as we continued into the playoffs.”
“Katie is a fun-loving kid who is always smiling and having a good time. She can also flip the switch when it’s time to turn up the intensity! One of the first conversations I had with KP was about how she wants to represent her family, team, school and the community of Schoolcraft the right way. I think that speaks volumes to the kind of person she is. I can’t wait to see the success KP has on and off the field!” Barry added.
Her parents are Erin Holmes and Zac Holmes. She sports a 3.8 GPA and will major in marketing at WMU. “It’s going to be an emotional season for me with it being my senior year at Schoolcraft High School, but I look forward to hopefully bringing back a state title for our town,” Parker said.