Catch up with Katie Shuboy, the Blue Water Area Athlete of the Week

Since the Times Herald started doing Q&A sessions with the Blue Water Area Athlete of the Week, every recipient of the title had been a first-time winner.

But that changed on May 25, when Richmond softball's Katie Shuboy was voted Athlete of the Week for the week of May 15-20. She pitched a perfect game (with 14 strikeouts) and a no-hitter (with eight strikeouts) to help the Blue Devils sweep Yale in doubleheader on May 16.

It's the second time Shuboy has won the poll under its current format. Her first victory was back on June 9, 2022.

As a result, this Q&A will differ from the usual structure. Now, let's check in with the Richmond sophomore.

Times Herald: How did you throw a perfect game and a no-hitter in the same day?

Katie Shuboy: Every game, my goal is to not let anyone score. So I feel it was more about me focusing on the game itself, rather than trying to keep a no-hitter or a perfect game going.

TH: You were selected to the MHSCCA All-State First Team for Division 3 as a freshman. How have you grown as a player since then?

Shuboy: I've gotten a lot more confidence in knowing what I'm capable of. Especially to try to do even better this year. I feel like I've gotten more strikeouts each game and that my pitches are better this season.

TH: What advice do you have for someone who aspires to play high school softball?

Shuboy: The best advice I could give to somebody would be to just put in the extra work and not get discouraged. Because it'll eventually pay off.

TH: What have you enjoyed most about this season so far?

Shuboy: The thing I've enjoyed most this year is having fun with my teammates through both the wins and the losses.

TH: What goal do you have for the rest of the season?

Shuboy: My goal for the rest of the season is to play the best that I can to help my team win. And, hopefully, to make it to (the state tournament).

Contact Brenden Welper at bwelper@gannett.com. Follow him on Twitter @BrendenWelper.