Athlete of the Week: Shea Alfrey

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Lydia Hernandez

Alfrey up to bat in her game against Omaha Marian on September 25th.

Lydia Hernandez, Media Day Coordinator

Shea Alfrey played a great final season this Fall at Burke, winning the All State Honorable Mention award. Alfrey has showed what it is like to be a team leader, standing by each and every one of her teammates, no matter what was at stake and that is why she was chosen to be The Burke Beat’s first athlete of the week!

Shea Alfrey hugs Coach Jeffrey Sturgeon September 21st during her senior night ceremony. (Photo courtesy of Sean Kelly)

Coach Jeffrey Sturgeon says, “Shea is one of the, if not the best, leader I’ve coached in over 18 years. She always puts the team first and is a fierce competitor. She will truly be missed and has left her legacy on our program and has been a major factor for us since stepping on the field as a freshman.”

Alfrey has played on varsity softball for four years, from being one of the only freshman on varsity to now being one of three seniors. She’s made a huge impact on the team’s success and overall bond.

Former teammate Maddie Kelso says, “Shea adapted to being on varsity really well. She earned the nickname ‘spicy’ from always being a firecracker on and off of the field.”

Shea’s “spicy” energy has been a great asset towards how the underclassmen have adapted to the varsity level.

Sophomore outfielder Anna Eibes says, “She gave us the fight and taught us how to play at the varsity level. Without her, we wouldn’t be the people and players we are today.”

Alfrey pitches 2 strikeouts in a game against Marian on August 25th. (Photo by: Lydia Hernandez)

Her teammate’s kind words aren’t the only thing that proves what a great player she is, as her stats speak for themselves.

Just this season, Alfrey had 42 strikeouts, a .910 fielding percentage, 22 hits, 7 doubles, and many more.

When she wants a win for the team she goes after it. Alfrey played a huge role in their win against number six team, Lincoln East, with her leadership, leading to a loss with having 2 strike outs, 3.71 ERA, and a batting average of .333.

“She’s a tough competitor who pitched very well against Lincoln East and wanted a victory, giving them their first loss of the year. Shea pitched us into the final of the Bell East Tourney,” Sturgeon said.

To nominate an athlete for Athlete of the Week, visit The Burke Beat’s Instagram page, @burkejournalism.