Large-school softball: Kylee Hanson, Jupiter

Year: Junior

Position: Pitcher

Stats: 18-5; 0.49 ERA; 261 Ks; .347 BA, HR

Season highlights: Winning the regional semifinal game 4-0 over rival Palm Beach Gardens (who at the time was the No. 1 ranked team in the country by ESPN and MaxPreps).

Comment: Hanson is 35-9 in her three-year career and made school history as her team advanced to the Class 8A state final four. Hanson has given a verbal commitment to FAU. Tossed 15 shutouts this season, including three in the postseason. "When a team scores on Kylee, she's learned to just collect herself and come right back at you. She's very confident and a great competitor. She's showed a lot of maturity, and she's always ready to go," said Jupiter coach Steve Ahern.

Athlete's quote: "It is an honor to be a part of Jupiter softball history. We couldn't get out of regionals in my freshman year and couldn't get out of districts last year, so it was a big deal to perform as a team in the postseason. I love the competition. It makes you a better person, not only in softball, but in life."

June 2, 2012