Congratulations to our Patch Athlete of the Week: Mallory Allen

Mallory Allen is the starting pitcher for the Lady Pirates Softball team at Boca Ciega High School. The Lady Pirates are currently 4-1.

What’s your favorite sport other than softball?

"Volleyball. I’ve played volleyball for Bogie for three years. I’m the setter."

What’s your favorite college?

"Jacksonville University, because they have a great Marine Biology program there. I’ve been looking into applying there."

What kind of music do you like?

"I’m a country fan. I don’t listen to the hard-core stuff at all. Carrie Underwood is my favorite female singer."

What are your hobbies?

"I like to draw a lot. But I don’t draw people so much as I draw abstracts. I like to use Sharpies or markers and write quotes that I’ve heard. I always carry a notebook with me, and if I hear something I like, I write it down."

Who is your biggest inspiration and role model?

"I’d have to say my Mom is my biggest inspiration; she’s always supported me in everything I’ve done.  Lately she’s been helping me with college applications. My dad always encourages me to work harder and that gets me motivated. For a role model, it’s Taryne Mowatt. She was an All-American pitcher for the University of Arizona. She was the 2007 Women’s College World Series Most Outstanding Player winner and she is amazing."

What college do you want to attend and what do you want to major in?

"University of Jacksonville is my first choice because of their Marine Biology department. I also am looking at Eckerd College and maybe Florida Atlantic University (FAU).  Last summer I volunteered at the Clearwater Marine Aquarium and I learned a lot. I know I want to be a Marine Biologist and help with research."

Are you involved in additional education classes or clubs?

"I am a member of the Marine Science Club and a member of the National Honor Society. I’m taking all AP Honors courses."

What’s the last book you read?

"I’m actually in the middle of The Things They Carried. It’s really good."

What’s your greatest hope for the future?

"World Peace"

What is it about softball that you think will help you prepare for life?

"Teamwork. I think that definitely teaches you managing skills. The focus required for pitching is the same kind that helps me focus on other things outside of softball. Pitching makes me think harder. The discipline is one of the most important things that I will take with me. That will help me with decision making and keeping my concentration."

Who is your best friend?

"Kelsey Clark! She is also in the Marine Science Club with me. I think we’ll stay best friends after high school."

What’s the fastest pitch you’ve ever thrown?

"I haven’t been clocked in a while but I think it was around 54-55 miles per hour."

The Lady Pirates play Largo Friday night at 7 p.m. at Lum Atkinson field.