Westville High School sophomore Erica Soost, known to many as “Pete,” is building a reputation as a dedicated and mentally tough varsity softball player, shaped by family support, strong team chemistry and a growing love for the game.
Soost credits her grandfather, Kelly, as one of her biggest influences. “He’s always quick to talk to me after a game,” she said. “He’s tough on me but pushes me to have perseverance and to be mentally tough.” That mindset carries directly onto the field, where she plays third base, a position that requires constant focus. “The most difficult aspect is being able to stay mentally tough knowing a line drive could be coming at any time,” she said.
Her approach to the game is rooted in preparation, routine and faith. Before stepping into the batter’s box, Soost takes a moment to pray and refocus. “I pray while I’m on deck and before I go up to bat, I go back over coach’s call,” she said. She also follows one of softball’s classic unwritten rules: “Don’t step on the foul line.”
The relationships she’s built with her teammates are what she treasures most. “Making memories with the girls and working toward making history” stands out as her favorite part of being on the team. She appreciates that many of the players have grown up together. “I love that we’ve been playing together since we were young,” she said.
Those friendships make every day around the program enjoyable. Soost describes Lexi Simmons as “the most vocal” teammate, while Rosie “keeps me laughing.” Simmons also earns recognition for consistently having “the dirtiest uniform after every game,” something Soost sees as a reflection of hustle and effort.
Away from softball, Soost stays involved through 4-H and serves on a student advisory board led by the superintendent. She also enjoys spending time outdoors with her family. “I enjoy spending time with my grandparents, Baker and going to the fields and fishing with my dad,” she said.
In the classroom, Wood Tech is her favorite subject, and she credits athletic director Eddie Roberts as a role model. She also remembers former teammate Kaleigh Carte for helping her feel comfortable when she joined the program. “She welcomed me in and made me feel like I belonged,” Soost said.
Whether it’s competing at third base, spending time with teammates or serving her community, Soost continues to grow both as a player and a person. The communication, confidence and teamwork she’s developing through softball are lessons she expects to carry with her long after her playing days are over.
