Janecka Going to State in Discus, Area Round in Softball for Flatonia
Flatonia softball player Ali Janecka has been a key part to the Lady Bulldogs success as her team has reached the area round in the playoffs. Janecka is also a track star and will be heading to state at the University of Texas for the discus throw, just like she did last year.
“Ali has progressively gotten better every year in multiple sports,” said Flatonia head softball coach Shawn Bruns. “For her to reach the pinnacle at state in track like she has the last two years is a great accomplishment for her. In softball, she’s been a solid contributor with her bat throughout the season. She had pitched for us in previous years, but she’s focused more on discus this year for her senior year. She’s moved to multiple places for us on defense. She’s really solidified us in the outfield last year and this year. Doing a great job of being a leader amongst the outfielders.”
Janecka’s wealthy contributions have made her our selection for this edition’s Player of the Week.
Question: What makes you so good in discus?
Answer: “I think that practicing has really helped me. I started practicing discus since seventh grade and I continuously practiced all year round. I think that’s what helps me be better in discus.”
Question: What stands out to you the most about the state tournament atmosphere?
Answer: “I think just the adrenaline that you get in your body whenever you go to the state tournament. It’s just a different feeling than anything else that you go through in sports.”
Question: How are you able to balance softball and track?
Answer: “It’s very difficult at times because I have to go to softball and then I go to discus practice after. Or I do discus first and then softball, but it’s a lot of time that I have to put in.”
Question: Where’s a place you’ve been that gives you the best memories?
Answer: “I think at the regional track meet in Kingsville. I’ve had good memories there all three times that I’ve been.”
Question: Who’s a person you’ve always wanted to meet and why?
Answer: “I’ve always wanted to meet Samantha Show. She played for Texas A&M and then she also played for OSU. She’s just a really great pitcher.”
Question: State track is held at the University of Texas, what’s your favorite part about the campus?
Answer: “I like the atmosphere of the stadium that I throw in. It’s just so awesome to go there and get all the feeling that you get.”
Question: What do you like to do in your spare time?
Answer: “I love to bake in my spare time. I like to also just practice for other sports that I play.”
Question: What’s your mindset like going into a softball game?
Answer: “I have to calm my nerves sometimes and just be ready for anything that comes my way.”
Question: How would you say sports benefit you?
Answer: “I think that it helps me become a better leader and just have better time. Be able to use my time wisely.”
Question: What do you like the most about Flatonia?
Answer: “I like the atmosphere of Flatonia. Everyone just knows everyone here. Everyone is so loving and friendly.”
Janecka carries a lot on her shoulders and carries it very well.