Playing catcher in fastpitch softball has its rewards and definitely has its challenges. Although it may not look difficult, the position is more complicated than it seems. Although you wear hefty gear, you have to be prepared to get hit in the face by foul balls and strikes. Just ask Courtnee Sensibaugh of the Hartshorne Lady Miners. 

“It takes a lot of practice and definitely it gets hot! Staying hydrated is important for me because I sweat a lot,” explained the 2022 senior who has been playing softball since she was five years old. 

Most coaches confirm the number one quality of a good catcher is leadership. Although it doesn’t look like it on the surface, the catcher carries the team. Responsible for defense and communicating quick decisions with the rest of the team, the catcher must also keep up the team optimism, especially of the pitcher. 

That’s something that Hartshorne coach Michael Martin admires about his leader behind the plate.

“Courtnee brings a positive attitude and strong work ethic everyday,” said Martin. “She’s a natural leader, a selfless player that will do anything to make her team better. Court has a gift to teach our younger players fundamentals at Miner Softball camps, and her teammates at practice, or on game days.” 

Sensibaugh, who maintains a 4.0 GPA and plans to continue playing softball on scholarship at the University of Arkansas-Monticello, cherishes the contribution of others to her achievements and the opportunity for giving back so others can find success.

“I’ve had so many positive, amazing influences in my life. Throughout high school, Holli Lindley was the girl I looked up to; throughout life my parents have shown me by example what hard work really is and why it’s so important. Another positive would be the influence of all my softball coaches in my career,” said Sensibaugh. “I enjoy coaching the younger kids and look forward to taking part in the annual prom dress giveaway year. I just like to help people. That’s why I plan to pursue a BSN degree and go into the medical field after college.” 

While coach Martin and the Lady Miners will look to their leader to maintain her top notch catching talents and at the plate where she hit for .538 average last season, Courtnee Sensibaugh approaches her final season at Hartshorne heeding the advice of her coach.

“Play hard and keep the same passion I had when I was young and play for the little kids,” she said with a voice of conviction. “This really is so much more than just a game.”