Karns City softball player Garrah Milochik recently signed a letter of intent with La Roche University. From left, Connor Snow (nephew), Michael Milochik (father), Logan Byers (sister), Milochik, Roy Ellenberger (step-father) and Tracy Ellenberger (mother) were on hand for the signing.

KARNS CITY — It is as if Garrah Milochik is making up for lost time.

She has been tasked with playing a new position for Karns City's softball team in this, her senior year.

“We needed a shortstop and I challenged her to step up,” said Gremlins' coach Mike Stitt. “She has the foot speed and the range to play there. She's really become a team leader.”

Milochik proved invaluable to the Gremlins since the start of her varsity career. As a freshman, she played catcher, third base and in the outfield.

“She responded well to it,” said Stitt. “I could put her at any of those positions and there were no worries.”

Milochik continued her strong play at those same positions her sophomore year, but lost out on playing last spring when high school sports were canceled due to COVID-19.

“Just getting back on the field this season, it felt amazing,” said Milochik. “Having that opportunity again, I know it's something none of us are taking for granted.”

Milochik recently committed to playing softball for the next four years when she signed a letter of intent to attend La Roche University, where she will major in psychology.

Slippery Rock University, Clarion and Robert Morris were also possibilities.

“I visited La Roche and loved the campus, how it's a city-setting, but not actually in the city,” she said. “The coaches and players were all super-nice and I know I'll have the chance to play there all four years.”

Milochik was able to get in valuable time at shortstop in summer and fall-league play last year. She also became stronger through workouts.

La Roche could take advantage of Milochik's versatility, possibly playing her at both catcher and shortstop. In the meantime, she's doing her part to help Karns City reach its potential this spring.

“Our first game, I hadn't seen live pitching in a while, but I've gotten into a groove at the plate.”

She bats in the No. 2 spot in the Gremlins' order.

“Some teams look at their No. 2 hitter as a bunter, but I don't coach like that,” said Stitt. “Garrah has a good eye, knows the strike zone. I give her the green light and want her to drive the ball.”