Alana Stuart Shines in the District 10 All-Star Softball Game
File photo: Warren graduate Alana Stuart will play in the District 10 All-Star softball game.
Warren Area High School’s recent standout, Alana Stuart, is gearing up for a significant milestone as she embarks on her college journey at Division I Mercyhurst University. Before officially stepping onto the collegiate stage, she has received an exciting invitation to participate in the inaugural District 10 North vs. South Softball All-Star Game, scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Tuesday at Penn State Behrend.
A Celebration of Talent
In a remarkable showcase of skill and resilience, Stuart is one of 15 all-stars representing the D10 North team, competing against an equally talented D10 South squad. According to the Erie Times-News, this game features an impressive lineup—comprising five players committed to play at the Division I level among a total of 15 student-athletes heading to colleges around the country this fall.
Besides Stuart, the select group of Division I signees includes a trio from Sharpsville: Lily Palko (Michigan), Izzie Candiotti (Robert Morris), and Keeley Whitaker (Bryant). Notably, Stuart will also be joining soon-to-be teammate Gabby DeLuca from McDowell.
Overcoming Adversity
Reflecting on her journey, Stuart shared her heartfelt sentiments about being chosen for the all-star game. “It honestly means the world to me to be playing in this game,” she expressed. Her path hasn’t been smooth, as she faced challenges related to injuries and subsequent surgery during her senior season. Yet, the recognition she’s received highlights her undeniable talent and perseverance, reinforcing her determination to play among other top-tier athletes.
With a rich mix of six D-I recruits, alongside several D-II and D-III committed players, the all-star lineup exemplifies the high level of competition present in Pennsylvania high school softball. Stuart’s participation serves as a testament to her hard work and dedication.
Stellar Performance on the Mound
Stuart’s high school career has been marked by consistent excellence; she was voted a region all-star in three of her four seasons—primarily as a pitcher, and once as a third baseman. This year, despite being sidelined for seven games due to injury, she still secured a spot on the Region 6 second team as a pitcher. The early part of the season saw her leading the Lady Dragons to a commendable 7-2 record before her injury, which hampered the team’s momentum.
A closer look at her stats reveals an impressive performance—Stuart finished her season with a 6-2 record and a stellar 2.13 Earned Run Average (ERA). Over 52-2/3 innings, she recorded 107 strikeouts while giving up only 13 walks. A standout moment was when she struck out a remarkable 18 batters in a 5-0 shutout against General McLane.
Offense on the Rise
In addition to her pitching prowess, Stuart demonstrated her skill as a formidable hitter. With a batting average of .488, she racked up 20 hits, which included four home runs and 21 RBIs—showing her ability to change the game with her offensive contributions. A particularly memorable performance occurred on April 22 when she went 4-for-4 with two home runs and seven RBIs against Titusville, further showcasing her all-around capabilities.
A Game with a Purpose
This all-star game is more than just a celebration of talent; proceeds from the event will benefit the Shriners Children’s Hospital in Erie. This aspect adds a layer of significance and community engagement to the match, highlighting the players’ commitment to giving back while showcasing their skills on the field.
As the District 10 North and South teams prepare to clash, all eyes will be on players like Alana Stuart. Her journey, marked by dedication, resilience, and exemplary performance, continues to inspire and uplift those around her. The anticipation for this showcase is palpable, as fans eagerly await a night filled with exceptional talent and memorable moments.
