The Heart of America Fastpitch League (HFL) is proud to name Danielle Stewart the HFL’s 18U Fall Spotlight Athlete for 2021.

The Northern Illinois signee hails from Frankfort, IL. and competes for Extreme Elite National 18U. Stewart is a true two-way athlete and got it done on both sides of the ball this fall. Posting a .394 batting average with a 1.209 OPS while tossing 62 innings of work, fanning 56.

Meet Danielle:

Q: Tell us a little bit about you and your softball story?
A: I started playing softball when I was around 6 because my older sister and my older brother played softball and baseball. I always loved to go out, play, and have fun with my teammates. But, I think I really grew to love the game more when I turned 17 because I worked so hard to get to where I am now. I enjoy seeing and understanding all of the different aspects to softball and using my strength and conditioning workouts to better understand how my body needs to move to be the best athlete I can be.

Q: What is your favorite softball memory?
A: Hitting a grand slam to tie up the game and then going on to win the championship game.

Coaches Feedback:

I have had the privilege of coaching Danielle since she was in 8th grade. It has been an honor to be a part of her journey and to watch her blossom both on and off the field. This fall our team voted for an “Out Love” award after each weekend for the teammate who displayed the most love of her teammates, and Danielle either won or was in the running every single week. She is a true joy to be around as her love of the game and her teammates is evident in everything she does!

Danielle is committed to her training and trains 3-4/week. She continues to improve through her passion for the process. Offensively, Danielle always finds herself in the top of the lineup. There is never any doubt that Danielle is going to have a competitive at-bat, but even with a high average you will find her trotting around the bases after home runs too. In the circle, Danielle has a devastating rise ball and change up. She has mastered understanding how her pitches work off each other, and will only continue to get better. Danielle is also a great defender. When she’s not pitching you’ll find her at one of the corners snagging great plays.

This award is much deserved. Danielle is a hard-working, humble player who loves the game and her teammates and I can’t think of a better person to get recognition for her contributions!