D6 Athlete of the Week: Ellyse Hydock, Greeley West High School
Ellyse Hydock is an outstanding softball player and an even better person, embodying the true spirit of a student-athlete. This season, she has excelled both on the field and in the classroom, pushing herself to new heights in every aspect of her life. Ellyse consistently challenges herself to improve, demonstrating dedication and resilience daily..."
"Ellyse Hydock is an outstanding softball player and an even better person, embodying the true spirit of a student-athlete. This season, she has excelled both on the field and in the classroom, pushing herself to new heights in every aspect of her life. Ellyse consistently challenges herself to improve, demonstrating dedication and resilience daily. She is also the first to put others before herself, always ready to lend a helping hand to teammates and classmates alike. I am excited to see all the incredible things she will accomplish at UNC, where her talent and character will undoubtedly continue to shine." - Hannah Rivera, Softball Coach
Student Name
Ellyse Hydock
School
Greeley West High School
Grade Level
Senior
Sports
Softball
Positions
Pitcher
Stats
- Batting Average: .565
- OBP: .615
- Slugging Percentage: .971
- HR: 9
- Hits: 39
- RBI: 31
- ERA: 2.21
- Ks: 221
- Wins: 20
"I am most proud of my team and I for making it to post season three years in a row. I am proud of this achievement because Greeley West softball hadn't made the playoffs in several years, and one of my goals in joining the team was to help lead the program to a post-season run. Reaching the playoffs three years in a row felt like a fulfilling goal I set out to accomplish from the start."
What are your goals for this season?
"My goal this season has been to be a positive role model for younger players by encouraging teamwork, maintaining strong work ethic, and leading by example. I want to support them through challenges, offer advice when needed, and show the importance of a positive attitude, whether we win or lose. By setting a good example both on and off the field, I hope to inspire younger players to grow and succeed."
Who are your role models in your sport or life, and how have they influenced you?
"My role models are my mom and dad because they have given me all the support and encouragement in the world, and always cheer me on no matter the outcome of the game. They also recognize the importance of balancing softball with other aspects of life like school and rest. They also help me keep a positive attitude."
How do you manage the balance between academics and athletics? What strategies have been most effective for you?
"I balance academics and athletics by staying organized, having discipline, and flexibility. One of my biggest things is time management and prioritizing tasks to help prevent last minute stress. I also communicate with my teachers to let them know about scheduling conflicts. Lastly, I ensure time for rest and recovery which is essential to keep my energy up for school and softball."
How do you handle pressure and maintain mental resilience during high-stakes competition?
"I make sure to stay composed and focused to concentrate on the task rather than the outcome. I replace negative thoughts with positive ones while focusing on my breathing to calm myself down when emotions get high. The key is lots of preparation so I am ready to handle challenges during the game because I feel I have done what I need to in order to be ready on the field."
What are your career or college plans after you graduate high school?
"I've committed to play softball at the University of Northern Colorado, and I'm currently exploring different paths of study for my future. With so many interests, it's hard to pick just one right now!"
What advice do you have for younger athletes who want to join your sport?
"Focus on the journey not the result. Have fun and enjoy every day and every opportunity you have to play softball because it goes by fast!"
Do you have any funny pre-game rituals or superstitions that you stick to?
"I always have to chew two pieces of Extra Polar Ice gum before a game."
If you were to participate in a talent show unrelated to your sport, what would your act be?
"I'm definitely more of an introvert, so participating in a talent show isn't really my style. However, I do have an artistic interest that I enjoy expressing in quieter ways."