All-star Catcher And Two-Time Captain

By KEN HAMWEY

Staff Sports Writer

Olivia Schultz is a Natick High student-athlete whose achievements are not only impressive, but also stunning.

A four-year varsity starter in softball, the 18-year-old senior played third base her first two seasons, then settled in as the Redhawks’ catcher for her final two campaigns. The 18-year-old Natick native is a two-time Bay State Conference all-star and a two-time captain. 

When she played third base as a sophomore, her batting average was .556. Last year, she hit .492, her on-base percentage was .584, she had 14 RBIs and scored 31 runs. She also compiled top-notch numbers in the field — 104 putouts and a .981 fielding percentage. 

So far this season, Natick has a 3-1 record and Schultz has compiled some amazing statistics. She’s got a phenomenal .846 batting average, has clouted 2 home runs, driven in 12 runs and scored 9.

As dynamic as she is at the plate and behind it, she’s exceptional in the classroom. A National Honor Society student, she has a 4.32 GPA and she’ll attend Middlebury College in the fall. Recruited for softball, she’ll be aiming for playing time as the Panthers’ catcher but she’ll also need time to excel in a challenging major — bio-medical science and research. 

Schultz is the total package but there’s still a missing ingredient in her vast array of accomplishments. She’s played in the state tourney three times but the Redhawks haven’t advanced past the second round.

“It would be special and meaningful for our team if we qualify, go on a deep run and win a state championship,’’ she said. “It would be great but it’s hard to do. I’ll do my best to lead and motivate our team along with the other captains.’’

Playoff success is one of Schultz’s three goals. “The others are to compete for the Carey Division title in the BSC and to create an atmosphere where our players bond and enjoy their softball experience,’’ she emphasized.

Schultz believes her objectives are realistic. “We’re a close-knit team, we’re supportive of one another, and we’ve got talented players who can hit, field and pitch,’’ she said.

Brenna Keefe, who’s in her second year as head coach, labels Schultz as “a dynamic leader, a superb catcher who can hit and field, and a role model.’’

The 5-foot-2 Schultz has lots of other strengths and Keefe is quick to recite them.

“Olivia leads by example and by being supportive and communicative,’’ Keefe offered. “She’s got speed and quickness, is athletic and instinctive, has great arm strength and knows how to settle down a nervous pitcher. Her softball IQ is high and that’s why we trust her calling the pitches.’’

A catcher who’s analytical and relies on patience, Schultz relishes the responsibilities that go with the position.

“I try to stay calm, I keep mental notes on our opponents and when there’s runners on base, I like to do the unexpected — like execute a pickoff,’’ Schultz said. “I love playing the position because a catcher is always involved, whether it’s cheering for a teammate, helping a pitcher who might be struggling, or calling the kind of pitches we’ll use. My role is like being a coach on the field — supplying energy and keeping our fielders alert to potential situations.’’

A humble competitor, Schultz says her two seasons as a captain and a league all-star are special. “I’m honored to be selected,’’ she said. “As a captain, I try to lead by example and to be supportive. Hard work and dedication are the keys to both honors. Others deserve credit for my all-star selections. My parents are so helpful, my teammates are supportive and my coaches provide opportunities and are motivating.’’

Schultz’ best game occurred as a freshman in a clash against Newton North, which had beaten Natick in their first meeting. “I got a single and stole second in the seventh inning,’’ she recalled. “I later scored the winning run that gave us the Carey Division title.’’

A top thrill might seem like a difficult choice but Schultz listed Natick’s 2-1 loss to Bridgewater-Raynham last year in the playoffs as her favorite. “We were the 26th seed and they were a six-seed,’’ she noted. “The atmosphere was tense, exciting and nerve-wracking. We lost but we kept it close by staying focused and relying on teamwork.’’

Schultz, who started playing softball at the youth league level at age six, has played AAU softball for four summers with the Concord Raiders. She’s competed at different levels and has seen just about every situation imaginable in softball. Her favorite moment is batting with a runner on second base. “I just strive to advance the runner,’’ she said, “whether it’s a sacrifice fly, a bunt or with a base hit. I enjoy getting an RBI.’’

Schultz also enjoys working with the Redhawks’ other captains — senior Caroline Riley and junior Jayme Kiley.

“Both are excellent leaders,’’ Schultz said. “Caroline plays first base or the outfield, she’s a good hitter and fielder and provides lots of energy. Jayme is a third baseman/outfielder who also hits and fields well and is passionate about the game.’’

Keefe and assistant coach Tom Lamb also get high praise from Schultz. “Coach Keefe never gets upset, finds ways to correct mistakes, is a fine motivator and is energetic,’’ she noted. “Coach Lamb is a big plus in his role. He loves softball and is an all-around, great person.’’

Calling her parents (David and Theresa) role models for their work ethic and supportive nature, Schultz’s athletic philosophy is a combination of reaching her potential, having fun and winning. “Having fun gets me in the right frame of mind to reach my potential and that leads to winning,’’ she said.

The personable Schultz knows that valuable life lessons can be learned in sports. “I’ve learned how to accept failure and overcome it,’’ she offered. “I’ve also learned how to overcome adversity and be resilient, how to lead and how to be a quality teammate.’’

The Redhawks will likely be a playoff participant once again and a deep tourney run would make Schultz’s final season at Natick High memorable. A state title would be special. Whatever happens, she’s acutely aware that her interscholastic career is nearing an end.

“It’ll be bittersweet when it’s over,’’ she said. “I’m excited about my future at Middlebury but I’ll miss all the terrific teammates I’ve known for a long time.’’

Olivia Schultz is a high-character student-athlete who undoubtedly will achieve success — on the athletic field and in the academic arena.

Count on it.