Agape Freedom Sports LLC

By Jeric Yurkanin – Agape Freedom Sports | Staff Writer

TAYLOR, PA — Some players take years to find their rhythm at the varsity level. Kate Reynolds needed just one season.

The Riverside freshman has burst onto the scene with the poise of a senior and the production of a star. A .429 batting average. Six home runs. Thirty-one RBIs in just 19 games. Reynolds isn’t just playing varsity softball—she’s owning it.

Ranked 55th in Pennsylvania for RBIs and 73rd for home runs, she sits in the top 8 for Division AA across the state and is among the top 15 in batting average.

In Lackawanna League Division 3, she’s second in both RBIs and home runs—phenomenal marks for any player, let alone a 9th grader.

And she’s done it all while helping lead a young Riverside Varsity Lady Vikes squad (9–11 overall) through a season marked by growth, grit, and resilience.

Kate’s journey didn’t start with varsity softball. She began her career as an athlete during her T-Ball days—and it’s a decision her parents are grateful they made.

“I was introduced to softball at the age of 5 years old (this is why I wear my #5),” Kate explained. “During my first year of travel ball, I developed a negative mindset that really affected my ability to play. During that time, my parents encouraged me to keep going—and I’ve never looked back since.”

That early lesson in perseverance laid the foundation for the athlete—and the person—she is today.

Faith First, Always:

In today’s sports culture, some athletes shy away from openly sharing their faith. But not Kate Reynolds.

She embraces it. Lives it. Leads with it.

“I have always been a true believer in my faith,” she said. “I have never once doubted my Savior while playing the sport I love. Softball is a game of success and failure—there is no in-between. I am a believer that God will support me in my best days and worst days. God gives me the strength to be happy in the victories and pick myself up in times of defeat.”

Whether she’s hammering home runs or making tough throws across the diamond, her mindset is anchored in Christ. Kate’s faith is rooted in loving her neighbor, helping those in need, and serving her community—just like her Savior, Jesus.

In the Bible, Jesus said, “By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another” (John 13:35). That’s how Kate plays—with love, kindness, and integrity. Her teammates and even her opponents can feel it. She plays with purpose and treats others with respect—on the diamond and in daily life.

She’s not just a player. She’s a representative.

She’s one of a kind. And she knows exactly who she plays for.

A Program Built on Mental Strength:

Riverside’s rise this season isn’t just about skill—it’s about mindset. The coaching staff, led by Coach Kate, has worked hard to build a culture of focus and mental toughness.

“One of the big things Riverside focuses on is having a strong mental mindset,” Reynolds said. “Coach Kate and the rest of our coaching staff have developed a ‘so what, what’s next?’ mentality in our brains, which helps us remain focused and calm during high-pressure situations.”

That mantra has become a core part of Kate’s own routine—and a pillar of the program’s identity.

Rising to the Moment:

“This season has meant so much to me as a person and an athlete,” Reynolds reflected. “If I had to describe it in three words, I’d say ‘adjusting to change.’ New team. New coaching staff. New competition. But with change comes growth—and I’ve grown into a new version of myself.”

“Since I am only a freshman, I don’t have many memories yet with my team,” she added. “But if I could pick out one thing I am most proud of from this season, it would be beating Old Forge after a previous run-rule loss and keeping the trophy at Riverside for another year.”

“During this season, I have overcome tough losses, an early season slump, and anxiety at the plate,” she shared. “I’ve learned to breathe, reset, and trust God through it all.”

Poised Under Pressure:

At third base, Reynolds anchors the infield. In 62 total chances, she’s recorded 17 assists and 39 putouts with a .903 fielding percentage. Her play at the hot corner mirrors her presence at the plate—confident, steady, and mature beyond her years.

Even opponents recognize her impact.

“Competing against Kate Reynolds on the field is definitely a challenge because of the energy she brings to the plate,” said Lakeland sophomore Kamri Naniewicz. “Kate has built a strong reputation for only being a freshman. My teammates and I approach every game against her ready to adjust on the field and be ready for every at-bat.”

“One thing I respect about Kate’s game is her ability to pull through for her team every at-bat,” Kamri added. “She stays calm during intense moments and gets the job done.”

Beyond the Diamond: A Heart to Serve:

Kate’s talents don’t stop on the field. This summer, she’ll be part of the prestigious Geisinger Junior Volunteer Program, a competitive healthcare internship accepting only a handful of students out of over 500 applicants. Her essay, interview, and recommendations stood out.

She’ll spend eight weeks completing 40 service hours and 16 educational hours at Geisinger Wyoming Valley—evidence that her desire to make a difference goes far beyond chalk lines and dugouts.

She’s community-minded, service-driven, and mission-focused. Whether volunteering at a hospital or helping a teammate through a slump, Kate lives to lift others up.

“I want to be remembered not just as a softball player,” she said. “I want to be known for how I treat people—for volunteering, for spreading kindness and faith. If even one person turns to God because of me—that’s the real win.”

Built by Faith. Backed by Family. Focused on the Future:

Kate credits her parents, coaches, teammates, and best friend for helping her stay grounded.

Her personal mantra—“So what? What’s next?”—keeps her centered in the face of adversity.

“When I feel overwhelmed, I take a breath, break it all down, and remind myself of the bigger picture,” she said.

With three seasons still ahead of her, Kate Reynolds is already building a legacy defined by more than stats. It’s marked by faith, humility, community, and an unmistakable fire.

She’s not just one of the top freshmen in District 2—she’s one of the most inspiring young freshman softball players Lackawanna Conference has seen in years.

And Riverside is proud to call her their own.