Hargette: "She's a very versitile player"

Hargette is a sophomore CIAA winner

Thirteen-year Winston- Salem State Softball Head Coach Lataya Hilliard-Gray has high hopes for this season

"We have to play at a different level," said Gray, a three time CIAA coach.

Though the Lady Rams have had a competitive schedule, the offensive execution still needs improvement, said Gray.

Out of the many talented athletes on the WSSU softball team, Gray chose Mercedes Hargett, a skilled 5-foot-9-inch pitcher, as this issue’s recipient of the Coach’s Game Ball.

"She’s a very versatile player," Gray said. Pitching isn’t Hargett’s only position: she also plays first base, third base, and catcher on occasion.

"She’s performing at a level that I’m expecting."

Notable accomplishments Hargett has accrued include making the all- CIAA rookie team last season after finishing second in the conference in strikeouts, while recording the highest batting average (.435) and slugging percentage (.522) on the team.

Hargett, a sophomore exercise science major from Havelock, N.C., excels because she believes in Gray’s vision and trusts in "the process," which is why she admires her coach.

Gray noted Hargett’s competitive nature and self-motivation are what make her a unique athlete.

Argus: When did you begin playing softball?

Hargett: I began playing softball in the sixth or seventh grade.

I played other sports, but as I got older my passion grew for softball.

Argus: What drew you to WSSU?

Hargett: Winston wasn’t my first choice, but when coach called me and I visited, the environment was great, and that’s what attracted me.

Argus: What do you like most about your team?

Hargett: I like the competitiveness of the team and the family atmosphere. We’re all willing to take care of each other.

Argus: Is softball an undervalued sport?

Hargett: Even though softball is the fastest growing sport for women, it’s still overlooked and undervalued by society because it doesn’t generate a lot of revenue.

Argus: What area of your game has improved? Needs improvement?

Hargett: To me, my pitching has become the greatest improvement.

My batting needs improvement, even though my average is great this season.

Argus: What would you like to accomplish this season?

Hargett: Definitely a championship; that’s the No. 1 goal. I would also like to be the CIAA Pitcher of the Year.

Argus: Any pre-game routines?

Hargett: I always have to listen to Meek Mill before I play because it gets me focused.

And I have to straighten my hair before a game. I’m just superstitious about it.

Argus: What are your hobbies off the field?

Hargett: I love to go to the beach, tan, read mystery books and watch documentaries.

Argus: Who has helped you become successful?

Hargett: Everyone who I’ve crossed paths with.

That includes my parents, friends, coaches and teammates have helped me become who I am today, on and off the field.

Argus: What are your plans following your collegiate softball career?

Hargett: I would like to try out for the pros. If that fails, then I’d like to go to graduate school and get a masters and pursue a career in athletic training.