Freshman Paige Hochman made an impressive debut this season on Varsity softball, contributing to the team on and off the field through her strong performance as a catcher and her positive team mindset. 

As a freshman, Hochman is the starting catcher for Varsity softball. She also occasionally plays first base when needed.

“It’s been one of my goals for a while [to make varsity]. I’ve been proud of myself that I put in the work and I made it this far, and I hope to continue,” Hochman said.

Hochman began playing softball when she was 6 years old. She currently plays for the Rockville Rampage travel team and the Rockville Baseball Association (RBBA). She has previously played for the Red Raiders and the Olney Boys and Girls Club (OBGC) teams.

“With her being younger but also being so skilled, she brings humor, but also helps others on the team learn because of the age difference,” senior varsity captain Peyton Majewski said.

Growing up, Hochman felt inspired to play softball because both her father and brother played baseball. 

“Her skill level is really high and she works really well with the pitcher,” varsity assistant coach and social studies teacher Maggie McCarthy said. “She fits in really well with all the girls on varsity and she has a great attitude.”

As catcher, Hochman’s position is vital to cohesion and playmaking on the field. She contributes by regulating the pitcher, protecting the umpire, and calling where the ball should go, which her teammates then relay throughout the field.

“Since I’m facing towards the field and everyone else is facing the other way, I can see the whole field so it’s important to know where the play is and help direct people to where they should be going,” Hochman said.
Hochman enjoys softball because of the inviting team environment and fun involved in batting and catching. 

“The hardest part is dealing with a loss, because they’re going to happen but no one really wants them to happen,” she said. “It’s just how you deal with it and prepare for the next one.”

In the future, Hochman hopes to continue her varsity career for all four years of high school. While she is unsure whether she wants to play softball in college, Hochman is confident that her love for the sport will remain strong.

“One of our goals on the team is to have fun on the team, not just to win,” she said. “I really love the adrenaline and how fun softball is.”