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Carlow University Student Athlete Spotlight - Erica Bartholow

It is understandable why opposing hitters may feel somewhat uncomfortable when they face Connellsville junior pitcher Erica Bartholow. Her 5-foot 10-inch build with a fastball that approaches the plate at 62 miles per hour is a combination that could unnerve some professional baseball players. Facing Bartholow is like a baseball player facing a pitcher throwing nearly 95 miles per hour.

Bartholow's passion for pitching goes beyond her wicked fastball mixed in with an excellent drop, curve and changeup.

"I like being involved in every pitch of the game," Bartholow explained. "I would not enjoy softball as much if I played another position. I would feel like a spectator."

Bartholow is no spectator on the mound. She demonstrates confidence and self-control and rises to the occasion in pressure situations.

"She has raw talent that has not yet reached its peak of performance," commented Jana Hudson, Bartholow's personal pitching coach. "I would characterize her as a diamond in the rough. Hudson added, "Erica is a fierce competitor. She is always working towards perfection."

Bartholow's passion for softball led her to quit playing varsity basketball after her sophomore season to put her focus on softball. Bartholow earned varsity basketball and softball letters in both her freshman and sophomore years, and was named all-county pitcher as a sophomore. She also stands out in the classroom where she maintains a 4.0 grade point average and is ranked in the top ten in her class.

Although a junior, Bartholow's academic and athletic prowess has drawn the attention of several colleges including that of division 1 programs. Responding to all of these colleges can put a demand on her time, but Bartholow is enjoying it, adding "It's busy filling out all of the questionnaires, but it will be well worth it."

-- Submitted by the National Scouting Report*

* This Student Spotlight was submitted by the National Scouting Report and follows the guidelines and permissions set within that organization. MSA Sports is not liable for this submission.

How to Get Your Student in the Spotlight

Balancing sports, schoolwork, and other activities is one of your child's greatest challenges. We at MSA Sports would like to spotlight some of these students who do just that - and do it WELL!

Parents, teachers, family members and friends, we need your help identifying students to feature in the Student Athlete Spotlight. Send a photograph of the student, along with some biographical information. Student bio should be brief (2 or 3 paragraphs) and include sport played and position, academic and other honors, GPA, extracurricular activities, and any other information that helps to showcase the achievements and character of this student athlete.

Once your child is selected we will send you a permission form to allow us to post the student's picture and profile. Please use this form to submit a student for consideration.