Q&A: Jocilyn Rudisill

Jocilyn Rudisill has been a mainstay in the Absegami High School softball line the last four years.

The Braves’ senior is among the best defensive players in South Jersey, playing her entire junior season in centerfield without an error, and is a steady batter.

Her impressive numbers don't stop at the foul lines, as Rudisill is ranked No. 4 in her class. We caught up with the senior to talk about baseball, school and favorite activities. 

Patch: When did you start playing softball, and did you like it right away?

Rudisill: I started about when I was 8 years old. I played soccer the year before and I wanted to do something different. I used to play in my front yard when i was younger. I had one of those giant orange bats. We have video of me hitting when I was 3. I guess I got tired of hitting by myself. You can play soccer by yourself, but softball is kind of hard.

Patch: Are you playing in college?

Rudisill: I'm playing at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. It's (NCAA) Division III.

Patch: What made you decide to go there?

Rudisill: I want to be an engineer, probably a civil engineer. They are a really good engineering school. When I visited there, I liked it and they put a lot of money into athletics the past few years. They have new facilities and plan on a new field, but it might be done after I graduate.  I also felt wanted by the coach. Some coaches, you send e-mails and they might call you back or whatever.

Patch: What is your favorite class?

Rudisill: I'm tempted to say gym. I like gym because it's fun and I get to compete with people.

Patch: What is your favorite thing about playing softball at Absegami?

Rudisill: It's a great atmosphere out there for the game. There are always people out there and people want to know how you do. The coaches are great. It's a great place to play.

Patch: Do you have any superstitions?

Rudisill: I try not to be superstitious, but I never step on the foul line. And every game since the (Rancocas Valley Tournament) my freshman year, I have worn the same hair ribbon. The catcher we used to have never crossed bats by the fence or she would never get a hit so I make sure the bats never cross.

Patch: Favorite activity away from school or softball field?

Rudisill: Since the sixth grade, I have been playing on a travel team in the summer and it takes up a lot of time. I'm only going to play in a few tournaments this summer so I'm looking forward to going to the beach more than like 10 times. I would say going to the beach is my favorite activity.

Patch: You are a top student and athlete, so what is a good tip for organizing your time?

Rudisill: I try to prioritize when I sit down with all my homework. I figure out what do I have to get done now, what I can do later, and what I can get done in study hall. I try to get stuff done and not get distracted, especially late in my senior year.