Oswego East Student Athlete of the Week-Jamie Haas

The energy and expectations around the Wolves girls’ softball program has raised exponentially this year, and with good reason. 9 seniors are committed to playing college softball next year, 3 of which have earned a Division 1 scholarship (Danielle Williams-Northern Illinois, Emily Schultz-Stanford, and Juvia Davis-Indiana University). Combined with 2 juniors who have already verbally committed to playing in college and there is reason to be excited. Outfielder Jamie Haas is one of those 9 seniors committed to playing collegiate softball (Elmhurst College), and the senior’s hard working attitude and powerful bat makes her a key contributor to the team and this week’s Oswego East student athlete of the week.

Entering the season, the Wolves knew they had the potential to have a special year. As of now, they have made good on those expectations by earning a 13-2 record overall, and 7-2 in conference. The attitude has been one of positivity and support, as Jamie states, “We all really support each other because we all have high expectations, and we keep pushing each other to achieve our goals.”

Those goals include winning a conference championship and moving past regionals, and hopefully making a run at a state title. Jamie, a team-first player, does whatever is necessary for her team to have success. She is currently batting .409 with 2 2B’s, 2 3B’s, and scored the winning run last night vs. Joliet West. Head coach Mark Green says, “[Jamie] has a powerful bat and has been a clutch hitter for us so far this season.” He goes on to add, “Jamie has a good attitude and is a key contributor to the success of our team.”

It is in Jamie’s personality to work tirelessly at everything she takes aim. Despite being a more reserved person upon first impression, once she opens up she has a wonderful sense of humor that keeps the team thinking positively and having fun. “Jamie’s best qualities are her work ethic and sense of humor,” says assistant coach Sarah Davies. She goes on to add, “Jamie seems at first to be a very reserved person, but as she opens up and you get to know her, you see her hilarious sense of humor! She is often cracking everyone up.”

OE has been a place that has allowed Jamie to grow as a person and a student. Her mother, Mary Haas, says, “Jamie has turned into more of a take charge person when it comes to her studies and time management.” She goes on to add, “I’m probably most proud of Jamie for her can-do attitude, and willingness to step into any role she’s asked to do.”

Being a student at East has also given Jamie the opportunity to find her passion and future career, nursing. “[Jamie’s] experience this semester in the OE Med Topics class has given her an opportunity to test the waters first hand in a medical environment, and it has only solidified her decision [to be a nurse],” says Mary.

Her Med Topics teacher, Nancy Vesta, believes Jamie will be an excellent nurse and excel in college, saying, “Jamie is a hard worker and team player in the classroom. Her classmates enjoy working with her and she loves sharing her hospital experiences from this semester’s shadowing at Rush Copley. She is compassionate and genuinely cares about others, which will make her an excellent nurse in the future!”

As Jamie and her senior teammates year comes rapidly to a close, they continue to remain focused towards achieving their goals. Having grown so much during her time here at East, Jamie offers the following advice to those 8th graders who will soon be walking the halls, saying, “Take everything day by day, and work hard because it eventually pays off.” The Wolves have the full support of the community, and are hoping their hard work will reap the rewards of championships by seasons end.