New position for Slovak helps team

Mykayla Slovak has a long list of accolades as a catcher. For three years she had started behind the plate for the Comanche Lady Indians.

This year, though, she not only got a new coach, she got a new position. Gracee Miller, who had been a three-year starter at shortstop, graduated last year, leaving a hole on the left side of the infield in an important defensive position.

“It’s definitely different, but playing shortstop in travel ball helped me a lot,” Slovak said. “I enjoy playing shortstop. It was hard for me to transition over. I definitely miss catching, but it’s been fun. It’s been good.”

The daughter of Josh and Kristen Slovak said it is good to have a break from being behind the plate.

“I’ve kind of wanted to play somewhere else because of the last few years, and just get my mind off catching. It’s been nice,” Slovak said.

And, in the long run, it’s been good for the team as the Lady Indians finished second in their district and will host a regional tournament this week.

“Team-wise, I kind of feel like we’ve struggled transitioning over but now, it’s been good,” Slovak said. “We finally started playing better together.”

Slovak is unsure what the softball future holds. Her career accomplishments could allow her to get an opportunity to play at the next level, but she is unsure right now if that’s what she wants to do.

“Maybe after softball season, I’ll get it settled out,” Slovak said. “I guess I’ll figure out if I want to go play (in college). But as of right now, I just want to get my degree.”

Comanche head coach Jennifer White has been happy with her performance.

“She’s done a great job,” White said. “She has a great arm and fields her position well. I really didn’t notice it was a big change for her.”