Hi-Line Athlete Profile: J.J. Hassa, Havre Softball

If the Havre High softball team is going to achieve its goals this season, one of the big reasons will be the right arm of senior pitcher Jaycelyn "J.J." Hassa.

Hassa, who said she has been playing softball since she was around four years old, has seen her role grow with the Blue Ponies over the past few years. Last season, she was one of the team's regular starting pitchers, as well as an outfielder. But now, as a senior and one of its best hurlers, her role is even more important.

In softball, pitching is always key and so far this season, Hassa has done a solid job for the Ponies, holding Lewistown to just five runs in eight innings in her first official start of the season. Even though Havre lost the game, it wouldn't have hung around for so long without Hassa's effort that included six strikeouts and just two walks.

However, for Hassa, a solid outing on the mound is nothing new. Last season, Hassa earned multiple victories on the mound as a starting pitcher, and over the past two seasons, she has become one of the more reliable Ponies at the plate, too. She was 2-for-4 against Lewistown and has become a trusted presence in the Havre lineup.

While Hassa and the Ponies have been playing for the last two weeks, their first opportunity to play in front of their hometown fans comes Thursday against Browning in a matchup of Central A conference teams.

Havre has dominated the Indians in recent years, but the program has become more competitive in recent years. And with every game making a difference in an eight-game conference schedule, it's an important game for HHS to win, which could mean that Hassa, once again is on the bump.

"We are all really excited about playing at home," Hassa said. "Last year our first home game was against Browning and it was cold, but it's supposed to be 71 degrees. Of course, you never know in Montana, but we are looking forward to it."

The contest with Browning will be played at the Sixth Avenue Memorial Field at approximately 5 p.m., Thursday night and will be just the second official game for the Ponies this season.

Hassa, who said she plans to pursue a degree in elementary education at either Montana State University-Northern or the University of Montana Western, caught up with the Havre Daily News just ahead of the Havre softball home opener.

HDN: With softball being your only sport, what is it about it that has made you want to play all these years?

Hassa: "I like how it's a team sport. I like people and in softball, you get to work together and it's all about the team."

HDN: Have you always been a pitcher? Do you like that position?

Hassa: "Yes, I love it. It's something that I have been doing since about sixth grade."

HDN: What do you like the most about it - must be fun to strike people out?

Hassa: "Yes, that is really fun. It's really cool to get to know the batters and the strategy, like last weekend in Lewistown, I learned they could hit my changeup so I had to start throwing a different pitch."

HDN: What are all the pitches you can throw and what is the one you count on the most?

Hassa: "I have a changeup, a dropball and a two-seam (fastball). I am really confident in my four-seam, my dropball."

HDN: What has been your favorite thing about playing Blue Pony softball these past four years?

Hassa: "I would just saying being around the team, getting to know people, making friends and building those relationships, that has been the best part."