Softball's Bauer Officially Commits to Temple

It was a happy day for the Spring-Ford Area School District, its softball program and the family of one of its star players on Wednesday, as senior Liz Bauer committed to Temple University to play softball. Bauer will major in Physical Therapy while enrolled in undergraduate studies.

"Liz is a great person in our building," Athletic Director Mickey McDaniel said. "She brightens the hallways when she walks down. She’s more than a softball player. You have to understand that. She’s an all-around person who’s been brought up the right way and we’re very excited about what her future holds for her."

Bauer indicated her coaches will decide what position she will play in college, but it will most likely be either second base or outfield. She is listed as a left fielder at Spring-Ford this year.

"I’m super excited to go to Temple," Bauer said. "There’s a good coaching staff and a good group of girls. I feel like it will keep me focused and just having fun in college."

At age nine, Bauer began her softball career. She said she enjoys the team aspect of the sport and that the situational nature of the game always has her thinking. Head coach Tim Hughes said Bauer was one of his more levelheaded players.

"She’s fantastic," said Hughes. "I go to her for the levelheaded answer when I needed one. She’ll vouch for that. I’ve got to compliment the parents. I told you this before, but I’m dealt four aces. My job is to stay out of the way. She is definitely one of the aces I’ve gotten and I’m lucky to have had someone like her over the last four years. It makes me look good. I’ll miss her."

Bauer thanked her parents for the constant traveling and practice time they've spent with her. Her parents, Debbie and Jim, were happy to do so and are very proud of their daughter.

"I would say it pleases me to see where her work ethic is," her father, Jim, said. "Softball has taught her that there’s nothing out there for free. You have to work for it. It’s proven to us that she deserves where she’s at."

Overall, Bauer was also thankful to Spring-Ford for the value it has provided her in her high school career.

"I would say it has definitely had a big effect on me," she concluded. "We have good coaches and a good group of girls. I'm just very excited."