Jenna Flessner a glue to Washington's softball success
Not even a bloody pitching hand, which didn't stop her from beating Metamora last week.
'It wouldn't stop bleeding,' said the Washington pitcher. 'We tried tape, glue, it didn't stay. Finally, it worked. We got it under control.'
Flessner has been under control as the Panther's leader with her bat and her pitching arm. Perhaps it's fitting that a player who needed some medical glue to stop bleeding on her thumb has also been the glue to a team that's state ranked and in the hunt for a conference title.
She says her team has stuck together since the deaths of the father and grandfather of teammate Bayley Parrott. Both men were killed in an auto accident while in Tennessee to watch the Panthers play in an early-season tournament.
'Having to go through something so hard in the beginning with Bayley's dad, it has brought us together so much,' Flessner said. 'Everyone has picked each other up. Our team chemistry is so good.'
The Panthers are off to a 25-2 start. They are 11-1 in the Mid-Illini Conference just a half-game behind leader Dunlap (11-0).
Washington coach Stephanie Lawson has seen Flessner grow into her role as a positive influence on this team.
'That's contagious for everyone else. We always say 'lead by example.' We need leaders as well,' said Lawson. 'She's one of the one's as a senior that has made an impact.'
Flessner has always been able to hit but this is her first season as Washington's top pitcher. She says she's eager to stay in that role as the staff ace, hoping to lead the Panthers to a conference title.
Banged-up thumb or not.
'It's been great. I've enjoyed being the pitcher, knowing that they are all there for me is so great. I'm there for my team. It's a vital position,' said Flessner. 'I'm giving it my all, 100 percent. It's been great.'
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