Meet Savannah Nowak: Ramapo HS softball player committed to Rochester Yellow Jackets
FRANKLIN LAKES, N.J. — This spring, Savannah Nowak was able to dust off her cleats, break in her mitt and step into the batter’s box as part of the Ramapo High School softball team.
“The pandemic restrictions started in March 2020 and our season was canceled,” said Savannah. “I am so excited I will have the opportunity to play my senior year before I go to college.”
Savannah was recruited and has committed to play next year on the University of Rochester Yellow Jackets softball team.
With last year’s season benched, Savannah used the time to work with hitting coach Bob Frassa to improve her swing.
“Softball is a game of physical and mental skills,” reflects Savannah.
She also spent time working on her blocking and footwork.
“It’s important to be able to quickly transfer the ball from the glove to the throwing hand,” said Savannah. “Runners aren’t slow and catchers need to be faster.”
Besides winning, Savannah’s favorite part of the game is “throwing out a base runner from home to second base.”
“My favorite player is St. Louis Cardinals catcher Yadier Molina,” said Savannah. “He exhibits confidence behind the plate and knows he is a great catcher and is not afraid to display it.”
One of her most memorable high school games was against rival Indian Hills High School
“The game went into extra innings,” said Savannah. “Unfortunately, they beat us but it was an exciting game.”
Savannah has a roster of people she credits with instilling in her a love of sports and softball.
“My dad and grandfather are sports fans and encouraged me to enjoy watching baseball and playing softball,” said Savannah.
She reaches back to elementary school and a Wyckoff Recreation softball team for her first softball experience.
“My coach was Jeff Goodrich and it was such a positive experience that I think it made me really love softball,” said Savannah. “I still keep in contact with him and thank him.”
She also appreciates the guidance she received from softball coaches Josh Lont, Frank Baldino and Darren White.
“I also want to thank my family and twin sister Nicole for supporting me and cheering for me at my games,” said Savannah.
Savannah is now paying-it-forward by coaching her brother Eric.
“I try to give him tips and play with him but you know how 9-year olds are,” laughs Savannah.
In addition to playing softball, Savannah has been the shooting guard on the Ramapo High School Lady Raiders varsity basketball team for the past four years.
“It was great to play my senior year and end with an undefeated record of 15-0,” said the 5’4” athlete.
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