Layla Menhusen
Bethel High School
Bethel High School’s Layla Menhusen is a junior this season and has played softball since the age of four. This season Menhusen said the bond the team shares is special.
“The thing I love the most about this team is the bond, competitiveness, and the thrill of playing with them. There’s never a dull moment with this team! Also, I value the friendships we have made outside of softball. The girls are people I can rely on at any time for any reason and trust they will be there for me,” said Menhusen.
This season the team has posted more than 20-wins.
“This season has been going pretty good; I’ve had some setbacks, like any other athlete, but I’m pushing through towards the end goal,” said Menhusen.
Softball is not her only activity at school.
“I play basketball, I’m in the Blue and Gold Mentorship Group, allowing me to mentor underclassman, and I volunteer for Middle of a Miracle, a nonprofit organization dedicating to focusing on children and teens battling cancer,” said Menhusen.
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Playing catcher for the varsity team is a big responsibility, one Menhusen embraces.
“I’m a utility player with a focus on catching for my school team. Catching is right up my alley because it requires me to lead, which I love. Catching allows me to see the field from a perspective no other positions allow. I can see and read things not everyone else can see. I keep tabs on the opposing batters; where they typically hit the ball, what pitches they like and don’t like, and I plan the play according to what I know about them,” said Menhusen.
Menhusen said her mother has been a big influence in her life.
“My mom has been a huge influence in my life. She leads by example and encourages, supports, and stretches me to be better. She is someone I can always go to, no matter what, because she allows me to be me and corrects me with love, never shaming me or making me feel bad about myself. She has taught me how to get through all the ups and downs and she’s always there any time I need her. She’s the strongest women I’ve ever met,” said Menhusen.
Away from school, Menhusen said she enjoys hanging out with friends and decorating yards.
“I like hanging with friends, toilet papering and trashing my coach’s yard and house with my teammates and going to the field or cages to hit by myself. Hitting to me is very important so whenever I’m free. It allows me to escape everything else in the day and just focus on my offensive game,” said Menhusen.
As for life after high school?
“I want to go to college and play softball, while studying to be an anesthesiologist,” said Menhusen.
