- Wellsville Central School District
- Diamond of Honor
- 2021 Inductees
Congratulations to the 2021 Inductees
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Frank Cady
Frank Cady Class of 2021
Coach Frank Cady remains a legend within the broader Wellsville community and beyond. While his statistics, as both a player and coach are some of the most impressive across both peers and competitors in this domain, Coach Cady’s personal impact on the lives of his family, students, players, and friends is what those closest to him remember with tremendous admiration.
Coach Cady was always creating opportunities for personal growth where none existed. He was a founding member and long-time coach of the Wellsville Girl’s Cinderella Softball League. Coach Cady’s daughters played on the team, and his wife, Joan, directed the dugout and managed the team’s scorebooks.
There are countless anecdotes that make Frank Cady one of the most respected coaches and leaders in the area, and deserving of this award. From allowing his Wellsville Girls’ Varsity Softball team to shave his head at home plate after their sectional title win, only weeks before his daughter’s wedding, to coordinating raucous euchre tournaments on the Spring break bus trips with his teams. Coach Cady is receiving this award for his outstanding achievements in the sport, but more importantly for his humanity, personal decency, and life-long pursuit of elevating those around him.
Julie Cady-Reh
Involvement in softball in Wellsville:
One of the founding members of and long-time coach in Wellsville Girls Cinderella Softball
High School softball accomplishments:
In the Wellsville Softball program from 1990-2011
Overall softball head coaching record of 198-39 from 1992-2002.
Assisted 1990-1991 Coach Bud Merrill
Assisted John Baldwin from 2003-2005
Assisted Jaime McLaughlin from 2006-2011
Won seven sectional titles from 1994- 2002, including five consecutive titles from 1994-1998
From 1993-1998, Wellsville softball compiled a record of 128-12 under Coach Cady
Coached Wellsville softball to fifty-eight consecutive wins from 1995-1997 - Currently the longest winning streak in New York State, and at the time, fourth longest in the nation.
State Final Four appearance in 2000
Won seven consecutive Express Way Conference Titles with a 41-game winning streak
80-9 Expressway Conference record.
WON SEVEN SECTIONAL TITLES from 1994 to 2001
1994 - Jessica Regan
1995 - Jessica Regan
1996 - Jill Regan
1997 - Jill Regan
1998- Katie Thomas
2000- Jennifer Scutt
2001- Nicole Whitwood
Coached 16 All-state players
Coached one New York State player of the Year (Jessica Regan)
Coached one New York State Co-player of the Year (Jill Regan)
In 2006, the Olean Times Herald named the Big 30 softball Coach of the Year award in his honor. It is called the Frank Cady, Big 30, Coach of the Year Award.
Was instrumental in bringing the New York State Championships to Section V in 1997.
In his words:
“I was blessed with great talent, great parent support, an administration that let me coach, and I really believe that it takes a community to produce champions.”
-taken from Coach Cady’s Wellsville High School Hall of Fame induction speech
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Shelley Kiefer Chaffee
Shelley Kiefer Chaffee Class of 2021
When I took over the Wellsville Lions softball team from Bob Mountain the team I inherited was very young. It was mainly 9th and 10th graders. Softball of the 1980's was very different from today. Practice began in early March with games in April and May with sectionals finishing in early June. Players relied on their natural athletic abilities instead of skills honed from hours and hours of practice.
One player stood out above the others in terms of natural ability and that was Shelley (Kiefer) Chaffee. Shelley started playing high school softball as an 8th grader and began as a third baseman. When I took over it was obvious that with Shelley's ability and her leadership skills, the best position for Shelley was shortstop. During her freshman year, Shelley quickly became accustomed to her new position and led the team in fielding. During this time, she also developed into a solid hitter. She also became a team leader on and off the field. The following year her teammates recognized her leadership by selecting her as team captain, a position she held for the remainder of her career at Wellsville.
Throughout her career, she improved in all areas of the game leading the team in fielding and hitting. She displayed a solid glove covering the middle of the field. Her quickness and solid glove meant that anything hit her way was usually an out. She made many amazing plays throughout her four years of playing shortstop. At the plate she was a very consistent hitter. She not only hit for average, she also displayed an amazing amount of power for her size. She also possessed amazing speed on the bases and in the field. Her skills on the field led to many awards in her career. She was named the team's most valuable player for 3 years straight and was named to the league all-star team her final three years. During her time on the team, we qualified for sectionals in each of the years losing a heartbreaking game in the semi-finals of her senior year. Shelley was an overall outstanding high school athlete. She starred on the girls soccer team and the girls basketball team but it was on the softball field that her star shined the brightest. Even with her high school career in the books she continued to display her skill on the diamond playing on various community teams. It was truly a pleasure to have the chance to coach Shelley. So much so, that when her class graduated I decided to retire from coaching softball!
Terry Loucks-- former Wellsville Varsity Softball Coach
High School softball accomplishments:
In the Wellsville Softball program from 1978 to 1982 as a player, 1988-1989 as a coach, 2016-present as the scorekeeper for Varsity Softball
Played 5 years on the varsity softball team starting as an 8th grader.
Allegany All-Star 4 consecutive years
Captain 10th, 11th, and 12th grade years
MVP offense 10th, 11th, and 12th grade years
Coached Wellsville Varsity Softball 1987-1989 compiling a 43-17 record.
The 1988 team reached the Sectional semifinals for the first time in school history losing a heart-breaker to Penn Yann 5-4. The 1988 team would finish the season 17-4.
Tied for 5th all-time with 6 career home runs.
Played on varsity softball teams, from 1978-1982, that compiled a record of 43-17.
Proudest Wellsville High School softball moment/s:
Making the varsity team as an 8th grader.
Coaching the 1988 team to their first ever Section V Semi-final appearance.
College softball accomplishments/memories:
Played softball at Buffalo State from 1983-1985 winning the SUNYAC Championship all three years.
In her words:
“The Wellsville Community Softball League was first organized when I was 10 years old. My love for the sport has continued for over 40 years, as a player, coach, umpire, and now score keeper for the varsity team. Softball has allowed me to be a teammate at the community, varsity, and collegiate level. The skills, knowledge, and memories I’ve gained from playing softball have been numerous, and I will cherish them forever.”
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Jessica Regan Cotton
Jessica Regan Cotton Class of 2021
Involvement in softball in Wellsville:
Played in the Wellsville Community Softball League from 1987-1990. Played on the Diamond Girls and Wellsville Travel softball teams from 1992-1995. Played women’s open league with the Lady Shamrocks 1994-1995.
High School softball accomplishments:
In the Wellsville Softball program from 1990-1995
Played as an 8th grader and played 5 years on varsity. Pitched on varsity from Freshman to Senior year
1994 – All-State Class B Fourth team
1995 – All-State Class C First team
1995 - Class C New York State Player of year
One of only 6 pitchers in Wellsville history to throw a perfect game.
Ranks 2nd all-time in school history with 207 strikeouts in a season (1995).
Ranks 4th all-time in school history with 429 career strikeouts.
Ranks 4th all-time in school history with a 0.536 batting average in a season (1995).
Ranks 5th all-time in school history with 37 hits in a season (1995).
Ranks 5th all-time in school history with 39 career pitching wins.
Tied for 5th all-time in school history with 17 career doubles.
Ranks 6th all-time in school history with 281.1 career innings pitched.
Ranks 9th all-time in school history with 76 career runs scored.
Ranks 9th all-time in school history with 15 wins in a season (1995).
Tied for 9th all-time in school history with 7 doubles in a season (1995).
Ranks 10th all-time in school history with 87 career hits.
1994 Azalea Tournament Champion
1994 Azalea Tournament MVP
Empire State Games Silver and Gold winner
Part of the 58-game winning streak.
1994 Class B Section V Softball Champion
1995 Class C Section V Softball Champion
Played on varsity softball teams, from 1991-1995, that compiled a record of 101-18.
Proudest Wellsville High School softball moment/s:
Winning the Azalea Tournament in South Carolina in 1994 with my dad calling pitches beating teams with 2,000-4,000 student enrollments.
College softball accomplishments/memories:
Messiah College 4-year varsity starter
4-time All-Conference
3-time All-American
3 NCAA Tournament appearances
2 trips to the NCAA Division 3 College world Series
105 appearances, 507 IP, 71 wins, 1.17 ERA, 515 Ks, 29 shutouts
In her words:
“Softball at Wellsville High School was one of the best experiences of my young life/childhood. It taught me how to be a winner, how to do hard things, how to succeed, and work hard/set goals. This experience with an amazing group of girls and top-notch coaches help prepare me for life. I am forever grateful!”
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Niles Herberger
Niles Herberger Class of 2021
I have been a part of the Wellsville community for 20 years and certainly have a great interest in Wellsville softball. In my time talking to people about Wellsville’s tradition of softball success, there are VERY FEW times when the name Niles Herberger is NOT mentioned. I have heard from parents, players, and coaches about his impact on the pitchers from not only Wellsville, but also the surrounding area. He is truly a person who has an expertise in pitching mechanics and a passion for teaching them. His desire to help young pitchers see the value of hard work and persistence shows through numerous pitcher successes at the high school and college levels. If you look at the Wellsville softball record books, you may not see HIS name, but Coach Herberger’s impact is present through countless player and team successes! Coach Herberger’s legacy is woven into the story of Wellsville softball. When there is talk of Wellsville softball tradition and dominance, Niles Herberger made an enormous impact!
-Matt Burke, Wellsville Varsity Softball Coach
Involvement in softball in Wellsville:
Began his pitching career in the Marine Corps League and then the Montgomery League in Maryland. Pitched for Johns Hopkins U. Applied Physics Lab for 5 years before moving to Wellsville in 1973 and pitched there from 1973 to 1991. In total, pitched men’s fast-pitch for 33 years.
Played against many top pitchers of the day from Rochester NY, Canada, Williamsport PA, and one time against the great Eddie Feigner!
Wellsville Community League Girls Softball President 3 years.
Coached 9-10 year-old softball 1987-1988
Coached 11-12 year-old softball 1989-1990
Began working with pitchers in 1989 and provided pitching lessons from the winter months to the spring for 27 years. Coach Herberger has worked with over 270 fastpitch softball pitchers in his career, including his daughters, Wendy and Vaneesa, two of the hardest throwing pitchers in Wellsville softball history.
Coached travel softball for 10 years. Coached 16u teams from 1992-1995 and 18u teams from 1996-2000. Coached VFW Lady Warriors and the Southern Tier Lady Lightning travel softball teams with great success.
Was instrumental in the construction of Quackenbush softball fields in 1991.The fields were built in honor of Terry Quackenbush.
High School softball accomplishments:
Since the BIG 30 Player of the Year award began in 2006, there have been 14 times players have won the award. Of those players, Coach Herberger has done pitching lessons with 10 of the winners! Award winners that Coach Herberger has worked with include players from Smethport, Bolivar-Richburg, and Wellsville High School.
Coach Herberger has done pitching lessons with 10 BIG 30 All-stars!
Wellsville has won NINE SECTIONAL TITLES and Coach Herberger has worked directly with EACH pitcher that was in the circle for the win! The list is as follows:
1990- Wendy Herberger
1994 - Jessica Regan
1995 - Jessica Regan
1996 - Jill Regan
1997 - Jill Regan
1998 - Katie Thomas
2000 – Jennifer Scutt
2001 - Nicole Whitwood
2002- Ashley Joy
Worked with several pitchers, including his daughters Wendy (Gannon University) and Vaneesa (Daytona Beach Community College), that went on to receive scholarships to pitch in college. The list includes players that went to junior colleges, division III, division II, and division I schools. Some schools in particular are St. Bonaventure, George Mason, Messiah, Marist, Niagara Community College, St. John Fisher, Youngstown State, and Syracuse University.
Proudest softball moment/s:
Watching daughter, Vaneesa, throw a 41-pitch (38 strikes) perfect game victory in high school.
Watching daughter, Wendy, win Wellsville’s first softball Sectional title.
Taking our 18u travel softball team to York Pennsylvania for the Softball World Series and matching up with the Jr. Olympic team. Our team crushed them 7-2 behind Liz Moyer and her dreaded change-up!
In his words:
“The one thing I tried to stress to all the girls was to visualize. This is what I would tell the girls… one of the best ways to become more self-confident is through VISUALIZATION. This is a form of practicing.”
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Jen Scutt Joyce
Jen Scutt Joyce Class of 2021
Tough, Tenacious, Determined…
Those three words come to mind when Jennifer Scutt Joyce is discussed.
Jennifer’s physical presence and that “look” she possessed chilled the hearts of opponents. Batters could read in her face when coming to the plate, that they were in for a battle and that they should simply bear down and do the best they could; often finding themselves walking back to the dugout with heads hanging low. On offense, infielders and outfielders alike should be prepared for a rocket coming their way when Jen connected. Her paragon offered leadership to the Lady Lions and a great example to the young ones who followed.
Jen won most, but not every outing, but whether a predictable outcome with a known foe or a tough sectional appearance, Jennifer always brought her game. As with all athletes, she loved to win and hated to lose. That may sound cliché, but her intensity and focus never wavered. As a good student and a three-sport athlete, Jen did not have a lot of spare time. As soccer season closed and basketball began, Jen was also working in the background to get her arm ready for softball. This sometimes had a toll on her body, but Jen would simply grit her teeth and keep chugging forward.
As a member of the only Lady Lion softball team to reach the NYSPHAA Final Four, Jen was a leader and an occasional peacemaker among a group of extremely talented athletes. She made sure her teammates worked hard and more importantly that they worked together even as their goal of a State Championship fell to the wayside.
Beyond being a great athlete, Jen is a great wife and mother, a good friend and most importantly, a good person. She is a willing volunteer and a role model for other young people. It is with great pride that we welcome Jennifer Joyce to the Wellsville Softball Diamond of Honor.
Involvement in softball in Wellsville:
Started playing in the Community League in 1994 and 1995 for A&M Bowling. Mike McLaughlin was the coach.
Played for the Lady Lightning for 2 years in 1996 and 1997 coached by Niles Herberger. Played for the Lady Bandits for 3 years coached by Jim Burke from Prattsburg and Wayne Evans from Mansfield.
High School softball accomplishments:
In the Wellsville Softball program from 1996- 2000
2000 – All-State Class C First team
Only Wellsville pitcher to pitch in a New York State Final Four playoff game.
One of only 6 pitchers in Wellsville history to throw a perfect game.
Ranks 2nd all-time in school history with 37 runs batted in in a season (2000).
Ranks 4th all-time in school history with 0.93 ERA in a season (2000).
Ranks 5th all-time in school history with 7 shutouts in a season (2000).
Ranks 6th all-time in school history with 32 career pitching wins.
Ranks 7th all-time in school history with 246 career innings pitched.
Ranks 7th all-time in school history with 67 career runs batted in.
Ranks 7th all-time in school history with 16 wins in a season (1999).
Ranks 8th all-time in school history with 3 home runs in a season (1998).
Ranks 8th all-time in school history with 202 career strikeouts.
Tied for 9th all-time in school history with 4 career home runs.
Expressway Conference All-Star - Softball – 1998
Team Captain - Varsity Softball – 1999, 2000
Expressway Conference MVP – Softball – 1999, 2000
MVP Defense – Varsity Softball – 1999, 2000
Section V Class C Tournament MVP – Softball - 2000
1996 Class C Section V Softball Champion
1997 Class C Section V Softball Champion
1998 Class B Section V Softball Champion
2000 Class C Section V Softball Champion
2000 Far West Regional Champion
Played on varsity softball teams, from 1996-2000, that compiled a record of 92-15.
Proudest Wellsville High School softball moment/s:
Being a member of 4 Section V Championship Teams.
Being a member of the first (and only to date) team to reach the State Championship by winning the Far West Regional Championship – and the pride that we knew we brought our hometown during those days leading up to the tournament.
Walking back to the mound and seeing a line of cars on State Route 417 pulled over to watch Wellsville Softball.
College softball accomplishments/memories:
Played Division I Softball at St. Bonaventure University as a Freshman in 2000, earning a spot at 1st base before suffering a career ending injury in freshman year.
Assistant Coach – Alfred University Softball – 2005 and 2006
In her words:
“Wellsville Softball means hard work, teamwork and dedication. Values that I still carry with me and apply to my everyday life. The success of the Wellsville Softball program now spans over decades; and it is no coincidence. Pride in our program and the value of hard work, teamwork and dedication were instilled in us beginning with our Community League coaches and up through the Varsity program. Together we were confident and despite high expectations, we were never afraid of failure. With the unwavering support of our coaches, parents, families and fans, we never backed down. With that, we found success.”
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Jen Richardson Koehnlein
Jen Richardson Koehnlein Class of 2021
I remember how my journey with Jen and her softball career began. She was about 8 or 9 years old and was cut from the community league All-Star team. As she sat crying, her mother took me aside and said, “You need to work with her.” So, I went to Jen and said, “Jen, do you want to make that All-Star team next year?” She immediately said, “Yes!” I said, “Okay, you make me a promise and you will make that team next year. If you promise me you will practice every time I ask you to, all year long, you will make that team next year.” From that day on we were off to the races. For 15 years we practiced and practiced and practiced. We were dedicated. Both Jen and I agree that this was the best time we had together, building memories that will last us a lifetime.
-Jim Richardson
Involvement in softball in Wellsville:
Played seven years in the Wellsville Community League from 1989 – 1995. Played travel softball for the Wellsville Lady Lightning from 1996-2000. “One memory I had from these days: it seemed like Heather (Matta) Vogel and I were always selected to be on the same team. I have very fond memories of our community league days together, which I believe built the foundation for the partnership and trust we had in one another as teammates during our High School playing days as shortstop (Heather) and third base (me).”
High School softball accomplishments:
In the Wellsville Softball program from 1996-1999
Four-year starter for Wellsville Varsity Softball (1996-1999)
1998- All-State Class B First Team
1999- All-State Class B Fourth Team
Ranks 1st all-time in school history with 89 runs batted in.
Ranks 1st all-time in school history with 41 runs batted in in a season (1998).
Ranks 2nd all-time in school history with 43 hits in a season (1998).
Ranks 2nd all-time in school history with 0.466 career batting average.
Ranks 3rd all-time in school history with 115 career hits.
Ranks 4th all-time in school history with 19 career doubles.
Ranks 5th all-time in school history with a 0.531 batting average in a season (1998).
Ranks tied for 5th all-time in school history with 8 doubles in a season (1998).
Part of the 58-game winning streak that took place over 1995-1997 seasons.
1996 Class C Section V Softball Champion
1997 Class B Section V Softball Champion
1998 Class B Section V Softball Champion
Played on varsity softball teams, from 1996-1999, that compiled a record of 77-12.
Proudest Wellsville High School softball moment/s:
The celebratory moments with all of my teammates after Section V wins ’96, ’97, and ’98. The spring break trips down south and the level of competition we faced. The proudest moment was when I received an athletic scholarship to attend Binghamton University. I was going to fulfill my dream to play DI college ball and my education would be paid for. My parents had sacrificed so much of their time, energy and money to allow me to pursue softball. Receiving the scholarship was the best way I could say, “thank you” to them.
College softball accomplishments/memories:
Four year starting 3rd baseman for the Binghamton University Bearcats
Two-time captain of the team (junior and senior years)
America East Conference All- Conference Team 2003
- Lead the team in Hits (32)
- Lead the team in Doubles (9)
In her words:
“I want to give a special thank you to Mr. Cady, John Baldwin, Niles Herberger, Pat Regan, Irv Hall, Curt Loper, my dad (Jim Richardson) and all of the tremendously talented women I played with over the years. To me, all of them, along with the parents and fans of the 90’s, and many others contributed to the wonderful history and legacy of Wellsville Softball. Thank you for the memories!”
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Wendy Herberger Morris
Wendy Herberger Morris Class of 2021
My sister Wendy and I were not super close in high school, as I am 3 years younger, making her a senior and me a freshman. I think our main bonding time was after school, on the rare days we weren't off to practice of some kind, she would make me make us macaroni and cheese! That being said, it doesn't mean that I didn't look up to her, regardless of the sport she played, but especially softball. I was focused on my own training but I remember watching her and thinking that I hope to be that good one day. She was smooth and flawless and confident! I'm actually glad we weren't closer in age only because I wouldn't have really had a career in high school.
After she graduated and went to Gannon, it was even better to go see her play college ball. It seemed much more intense than high school and I loved watching her. I think that is when my drive really kicked in to be a pitcher. I wanted to go to college and play like she did, although I never thought I would have gotten a scholarship, my grades were definitely not as good as Wendy’s. She set all kinds of records at Gannon. Even as her little sister, I was proud of her, she became an idol in my eyes. We have always had softball as a connection and in some way, I believe it is why we are so close today. I don't know that she ever really got to see me play but I want her to know that she really did have an impact on me and I am grateful to her for that. She really was the start of girls fastpitch in our area becoming so well-known and becoming the team to beat. Wendy deserves this honor more than anyone and again I can say I am proud of her and proud to be her sister!
-Vaneesa Herberger Smith
Involvement in softball in Wellsville:
Started in Cinderella Softball at age 10 or 12. Travel teams didn’t really start until I was a junior and that was started by Hornell and I played for them.
High School softball accomplishments:
In the Wellsville Softball program from 1987-1991
The Wellsville Softball team made the finals for the first time in program history, led by fire-baller Wendy Herberger in the circle. In the 1990 Class A Sectional Final against Pittsford Sutherland, she struck out 9 in route to a 3-1 victory. Wendy started as a freshman and played four years on the varsity. She was one of the first true hard-throwing pitchers in Wellsville softball history.
1990- All-State Class A Fourth Team
1991- All-State Class A Fifth Team
Ranks tied for 1st all-time in school history with 18 pitching wins in a season (1990).
Ranks tied for 2nd all-time in school history with 43 career pitching wins.
Ranks 3rd all-time in school history with 448 career strikeouts.
Ranks 3rd all-time in school history with 373.2 career innings pitched.
Team MVP
1990 Team Captain
1990 Class A Sectional Tournament MVP
1991 Team Captain
1990 Class A Section V Softball Champion
Played on varsity softball teams, from 1990-1994, that compiled a record of 75-20.
Proudest Wellsville High School softball moment/s:
Beating Hornell for the first time and winning Sectionals in 1990.
Endless support my mother demonstrated throughout my entire career.
My proudest moment with my dad was when he stood by me during the most embarrassing moment of my softball career. I forgot who we were playing but it was my debut game on varsity with Shelly as the coach. My first three pitches went over the Tullar Field backstop. I completely lost it and Shelly had to take me out. My dad was there to talk me down and encourage me. After the game, he helped me get back on the mound and throw like I knew how. I think he caught about 300 pitches that evening. It was the last time that ever happened.
College softball accomplishments/memories:
Earned a scholarship for Gannon University and won a conference championship in 1994.
In her words:
“Playing taught me much about life and I am grateful for the opportunity God gave me for growth in my life. Softball was such a positive influence in my life during my formative years. I wanted to do well because I loved the game and I used it as a tool to get to college. I didn’t set out to make a change in a program. At the time, you didn’t realize you are a pioneer in a program and that is in regard to any aspect in life. Having children now puts into perspective the amount of sacrifice, time, and money parents put into their children. I am eternally grateful for such support from my parents.”
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Jill Regan
Jill Regan Class of 2021
Involvement in softball in Wellsville:
Played Wellsville Community League Softball for 11 years and travel softball for 6 years.
High School softball accomplishments:
In the Wellsville Softball program from 1994-1997
1996 - Class C Second team
1997 - Class C First team
1997 - Class C New York State (co-player of year)
One of only 6 pitchers in Wellsville history to throw a perfect game.
Ranks 1st all-time in school history with a 0.494 career batting average.
Ranks 1st all-time in school history with 211 strikeouts in a season (1997).
Ranks tied for 1st all-time in school history with 18 pitching wins in a season (1997).
Ranks 1st all-time in school history with 470 career strikeouts.
Ranks 1st all-time in school history with 43 consecutive scoreless innings pitched (1997).
Ranks tied for 1st all-time in school history with 6 triples in a season (1997).
Ranks 2nd all-time in school history with 116 career hits.
Ranks 2nd all-time in school history with 81 career runs batted in.
Tied for 2nd all-time in school history with 43 career pitching wins.
Tied for 2nd all-time in school history with a 0.567 batting average in a season (1996).
Ranks 3rd all-time in school history with 38 hits in a season (1995 and 1996).
Ranks tied for 3rd all-time in school history with 29 runs batted in in a season (1996 and 1997).
Ranks 5th all-time in school history with 286 career innings pitched.
Tied for 7th all-time in school history with 15 career doubles.
Ranks 8th all-time in school history with 78 career runs scored.
Ranks tied for 9th all-time in school history with 7 career triples.
Ranks tied for 9th all-time in school history with 7 doubles in a season (1997).
Part of the 58-game winning streak.
1994 Class B Section V Softball Champion
1995 Class C Section V Softball Champion
1996 Class C Section V Softball Champion
1997 Class C Section V Softball Champion
Played on varsity softball teams, from 1994-1997, that compiled a record of 87-4.
Proudest Wellsville High School softball moment/s:
Winning 4 Sectional Titles and 58 games in a row.
College softball accomplishments/memories:
Played 1 years of softball at George Mason and was named Second Team All-Conference.
In her words:
“Having my Dad coach and mentor me during my younger and HS years made me into what I am today. It allowed me to understand the importance of practice and consistency. It helped me appreciate the importance of working as a team and being a leader through thick and thin.”
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Vaneesa Herberger Smith
Vaneesa Herberger Smith Class of 2021
"I'll never forget meeting Vaneesa Herberger as a freshman at Daytona Beach Community College. We were both on scholarship for softball and I could tell she had a deep love and passion for the game. I was a little nervous not knowing a soul on our team but she was friendly and kind and we became fast friends. We quickly bonded and found things in common in addition to softball; I believe because people would always ask if we were sisters. Her drive and competitive spirit inspired me and made me want to be a better player. Her pitching talent was beyond what I had seen at that level, and I grew up and played in very competitive softball programs in my hometown in Florida. I can also attest to her speed as there was a time or two I got hit with the ball while trying to drag bunt my way to first base during practice. Her unwavering focus and skill helped our team to win several tournaments and a state title in our sophomore year. She and I have remained friends over the years and I treasure her friendship and the memories we share. She is undoubtedly one of the best softball pitchers I have had the privilege to share the field with. Congratulations, Vaneesa, on this well-deserved honor. "
Tami McDaniel, teammate at Daytona Beach CC
Involvement in softball in Wellsville:
Started playing in the Wellsville Community League at age 8 and was the first player to hit a ball out of Quackenbush Field in 1991. Played high level travel softball for the VFW Lady Warriors and the Diamond Girls. Played 3 years on the varsity starting as a sophomore. As a pitcher, Vaneesa was one of the first high velocity hurlers in this area.
High School softball accomplishments:
In the Wellsville Softball program from 1990-1994
MVP Expressway Conference 1993
Steuben County All-Star 1993
MVP Expressway Conference 1994
Section V Champions 1994
Azalea South Carolina Tournament Champions 1994
Azalea All-Tournament Team 1994
Steuben County All-Star 1994
Team Co-MVP 1994
ASA Junior Olympic 18u Regional Champions 1994
Threw the first ever perfect game in Wellsville softball history.
One of only 6 pitchers in Wellsville history to throw a perfect game.
Tied for 1st all-time in school history with 3 career no-hitters.
Ranks 9th all-time in school history with 193 career strikeouts.
Ranks 9th all-time in school history with a 1.48 ERA in a season (1994).
Ranks 10th all-time in school history with 23 career pitching wins.
1994 Class B Section V Softball Champion
Played on varsity softball teams, from 1992-1994, that compiled a record of 58-12.
Proudest Wellsville High School softball moment/s:
The game both my parents were at when I threw a perfect game junior year 1993. Dad always made me work hard, but always gave me the choice to be a pitcher.
College softball accomplishments/memories:
Struck out Crystal Bustos (who went on to be an Olympic softball player) in route to a 1-0 shut-out win vs. Palm Beach Community College.
Won Florida State championship as a first-year player at DBCC in 1995.
Career stats at DBCC: Went 44-9 with a 0.97 ERA
“Who’s Who in American Junior College Softball” 1995
NJCCA Division I All-American 1995
2-time Scholar Athlete of the Year 1995 and 1996
2-time Florida CCAA First team All-State 1995 and 1996
In her words:
“I mean softball was obviously a huge part of my childhood. I played from 8 years old to 20. I miss it terribly. I loved watching my father pitch in the men's league they used to have. I met and played with many amazing women… I loved playing, traveling, the comradery, the competition, and the pressure.”
