Jim Walker

jim.walker@irontontribune.com

 

Two years ago made Andi Kratzenberg decide what she wanted to do the next four years.

During her sophomore year, the Ironton Lady Fighting Tigers’ softball standout had an epiphany about her playing future.

“It kind of hit me my sophomore year when I was playing travel ball. I was getting better and when it got closer to (the high school season) that’s when I decided I wanted to go on,” said Kratzenberg.

“I thought I had peaked out my sophomore year, but I got better from there.”

After signing a letter-of-intent to play with Capital University, Kratzenberg made her future plans a reality.

Kratzenberg looked at several other schools including Mount Union and Shawnee State before deciding on the Lady Crusaders.

“I went for a visit and talked to the coach. It fit my personality. I liked the girls on the softball team,” said Kratzenberg.

Kratzenberg is a four-year letter winner for the Lady Tigers and she has been an all-district honorable mention selection in each of the past two seasons. She was also part of the Lady Tigers’ first-ever 20-win season three years ago.

Ironton coach Missy Fields said Kratzenberg is valuable both on and off the field.

“Andi has been a great team player,” said Fields. “She is a good athlete who can play any position asked of her. She is also an academic scholar-athlete who has above a 4.0 grade point average.”

Kratzenberg takes pride in her versatility and her unselfish approach to the game endeared her to the Capital coaching staff.

“I just told them I play all-around. I’ll play anywhere they need me,” said Kratzenberg. “I like the infield the best, but basically I’ve played it all. If they put me in the outfield, I’m just as good there.”

Jumping to the next level will be more difficult both on the field and in the classroom, but Kratzenberg is prepared for both facets.

“They have study table on weekends if I need it. I just have to work around playing and the travel,” said Kratzenberg.

“I’m walking in as a freshman. I know I won’t be the most looked at player. I have to earn my position and give it my all. They may have enough for a jayvee team so I’ll get to play there. They haven’t had that for awhile.”

Kratzenberg — who plans a business major — is the daughter of Jim and Kathy Kratzenberg of Ironton.