Softball: Richmond infielder headed to Concordia University

A year ago, Jessica Barjaktarovich was unsure of her future.

The Richmond softball player hoped she would be able to play her favorite sport on the next level, but wondered if she would get the opportunity.

This week, Barjaktarovich got the chance she had hoped for and signed a letter of intent to play softball at Concordia University.

She will likely play middle infield at the National Association of Interscholastic Athletics school.

"It's been something that I've aspired to do," Barjaktarovich said. "Softball has been a part of my life since I was 7-years-old.

"I've always dreamed about moving on and playing college ball. I never thought I would have the chance until last summer."

Barjaktarovich was a utility player for Richmond last season, playing a host of positions.

"She can play infield and outfield," Richmond coach Howard Stuart said. "She's quick and she bunts well. She could be a valuable part of our team this year."

Barjaktarovich said she hit .394 for Richmond last season. In college, she will be expected to produce from the plate and also perform well in the field.

"They want me to play middle infield in college," she said. "I'll most likely play shortstop. I played a lot of third base for my travel team, but I'm comfortable at shortstop."

Barjaktarovich said comfort was the ultimate factor in her decision to attend Concordia University, which is just outside of Ann Arbor.

"It's a good fit because Richmond is a small place, a smaller school," she said. "Concordia is the same way. I like that environment better.

"It's right down the road from the University of Michigan, so I will get the comfort of a smaller school and still be around a bigger college campus."

Barjaktarovich said she has been hitting for the past month and is eagerly anticipating the spring season.

"I'm glad that I got college figured out," Barjaktarovich said. "I'm looking to have fun practicing and preparing for next year.

"I think we will do good in the (Blue Water Area Conference). "Hopefully we will make it out of districts. Armada is our biggest challenge."

Source: http://www.thetimesherald.com/article/20120215/SPORTS/202150314/1006/RSS02

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