Photo Credit: Kaylee Miu
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April 1, 2010
Rico Donelson Jones
Senior Lanae Andrade, the varsity softball team’s second baseman and right fielder, is more than just an ordinary Husky. She is a student, athlete and mother to an eight and half month old baby boy, Peyton. Many teen mothers seek other options rather than going back to high school after having a child, but Andrade is not only dedicated to graduating with her high school diploma but also working hard to get in the starting line up for her softball games.
Andrade has played softball for about four years. A friend first introduced her to the sport and since then she has taken it to the next level. It is hard for a high school student to balance both school work and sports, but raising a child, especially at a young age, can be incredibly stressful.
“Softball helps me stay sane with all the stress and responsibility that comes with being a young mom” Andrade said.
Andrade receives a lot of support from both sides of the family. Her father and uncle, both Washington softball team coaches, help Andrade grow both off and on the field.
“It’s difficult [balancing school and raising a child], but in every situation I do my best to put my son and his needs first because he pushes me to stay dedicated and become successful for him,” Andrade said.
Lanae plays for her love for the game and her team.
“Every time Lenae brings him, all the girls on the team get so excited and all crowd around him,” teammate senior Briana Terry said.
Andrade has an 89% fielding average with 14 assists in the season so far.
“College softball is way too much of a commitment,” Andrade said.
Andrade does not plan on playing college softball, choosing to pay full attention to raising her child instead.
“Peyton is awesome,” senior Kaley Marden said, “he’s sweet and funny and I know Lenae loves him.”