Sophomore Ashley Gonzalez, a left field and catcher on the JV softball team, was not sure if she could ever play again after suffering multiple severe injuries.

Last year, Gonzalez got a concussion and this year doctors diagnosed her with a pinched nerve in her back which caused knee pain.

After she tried out again this year, Gonzalez found out she had made the team and could continue to play softball after enduring months of long hours of physical therapy.

“I’m really glad I recovered from my injuries and am able to play again,” Gonzalez said. “I love playing softball and I hope to continue it in higher levels.”

Softball first sparked an interest in Gonzalez when she saw her brother playing in the Connie Mack World Series. She started to understand and appreciate the games. She was compelled to try out her freshman year after realizing her potential and natural talent for the sport.

“I have been playing softball with Ashley since she started playing and it has been so much fun,” outfielder Melanie Hempel said. “I am so excited to be playing with her all throughout high school.”

For Gonzalez, sports run in her family. Her father used to play baseball when he was in high school and her brother received a scholarship for college baseball a few years ago.

Her family supports and commends her effort to overcome injuries.

“I am proud of Ashley’s accomplishment of making it into JV softball again,” mother Suzanne Gonzalez said. “Her hard work, perseverance, and commitment will enable her to continue to improve and reach her goals.”

The JV softball record was undefeated until a week ago when they lost two games. The team’s current record is 7-2. Their next game is an away game against Fairfax April 29 at 6:30 p.m.