Strike-out Queen

Sidney product Abigail Haraldson, a junior at Concordia College in Minnesota, didn't only become the new record-holder for most strike-outs in a season, she shattered the school's record.

The standout pitcher finished the season with 200 strike-outs. Concordia's previous record was 153 strike-outs in a season.

Haraldson was tied for the record heading into a game against St. Catherine this spring. Not wasting any time, Haraldson fanned the first batter she faced to earn the record.

"I struck her out on a rise ball," Haraldson said. "All of the team was really excited."

Despite playing for a squad that finished below the league's top contenders, Haraldson received All-Conference honors.

For the season, she finished with a record of 12-19 and an ERA of 3.4.

"I would like to get a few more wins and lower my ERA next year," Haraldson, who pitched for Sidney High School, said.

The daughter of Rick and Darci Haraldson deserved more victories this past campaign. Her defeats included two 1-0 games, two 2-1 games and a 3-2 loss against the conference champion.

She also broke the school record for most innings pitched in a season. She ranked 11th in the Division III nation for most strike-outs.

Her four pitches are a rise ball, curve, change-up and fastball. She said most of her pitches come off her curveball. When she was in high school, the Eagles won the Eastern A championship in her junior season. She was sidelined with an injury during her senior year.

"I've improved quite a bit since then," Haraldson said. "Having a good workout schedule and being forced to practice all year helps."

She is hoping for even better things for herself and Concordia next softball season. The squad's 18 wins this season were the college's most wins in a season since 2002.

"We showed improvement every week this year," Haraldson said.