Meyersdale softball hurler Donaldson makes college decision
Meyersdale senior pitcher Izabella Donaldson has mowed down local competition the last two seasons in the softball circle.
The two-time Somerset County MVP and Daily American Player of the Year recently signed a National Letter of Intent to continue her academic and athletic career to play softball for coach Bill Vasko at Division II Frostburg State University.
"Frostburg has a great environment and a nice campus," said Donaldson. "My friends and family can come down and watch me play because it is close to home. That was a big thing for me. I know a couple girls on the team as well. Coach Vasko was very welcoming when I went on a visit."
Donaldson, who was selected Pennsylvania High School Softball Coaches Association all-state Pitcher of the Year in Class 1A, went 16-1 with a 0.62 ERA last season. Her only loss came at the hands of Glendale in the PIAA playoffs. Donaldson allowed 13 runs, seven earned on 45 hits, 12 walks and struck out 156 batters in 79⅔ innings of work.
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She racked up a team-high 42 RBIs, 38 hits and 13 home runs. Donaldson provided eight doubles and two triples. She also had a team-high 1.328 slugging percentage and a .603 on-base percentage and finished second on the Red Raiders with 37 runs scored.
"The one thing that stood out to (the Frostburg coaches) is that I am a good teammate," Donaldson said. "I cheer on my teammates, pick them up when they are down and help them in any way possible.
"The plan is to go and pitch, but I can step in and play another position if necessary. I hope to be able to hit as well. I know their No. 1 and 2 pitchers hit for them."
Meyersdale coach Tim Miller spoke highly of his hurler.
"It's been an absolute pleasure to coach Izabella. She is likely one of the best players to play softball at Meyersdale," Miller said. "She has worked very hard to get to where she's at, and her stats show it, especially being named 2023 all-state 1A Pitcher of the Year.
"She has helped keep our program performing at a high level of expectations. She leads by example, coaches and encourages her teammates and is very humble in the recognition she has received. Coach Vasko is getting a gamer that will be looking to excel at the collegiate level."
Donaldson is the daughter of D.J. and Jackie Donaldson. She boasts a 3.8 GPA and plans to major in elementary education.
She thanks her family, especially her parents, friends, travel coach Guy Robertson and her pitching coach. Now, Donaldson is eager for the opportunity to continue her playing career in college.
"I am very excited to play at the next level," Donaldson said. "I know it is going to be difficult transitioning from high school softball to college, but it is going to push me to get better each day."
Adam Ripple is the Daily American sports editor. He can be reached at 814-444-5926. Follow him on X (Twitter) @ARipple_DAsport. Follow Daily American Sports on Facebook and @dailyamericanmedia on Instagram.
This article originally appeared on The Daily American: Meyersdale's Donaldson commits to pitch at Division II program
