Bob Jones Freshman Pitches Perfect Game
MADISON- A perfect game is rare in softball. Matter of fact, there have only been four perfect performances in the history of the Bob Jones program and Emmah Rolfe is the latest to join the elite group to have thrown a perfect game.
The gem came against Florence High where the super-talented freshman threw what she considered a good game, but didn’t actually know it was a perfect until the outing was complete. “Having a perfect game never entered my mind and I didn’t realize it occurred until my teammates rushed me in excitement after the last out,” said Rolfe.
Going into the season, Bob Jones head coach Whitney Elder-Deaver knew she had a good pitching staff already on board, but heard she had a terrific freshman moving into the area that could really assist the already blessed roster of pitching arms. When the 5-foot-10, 150-pound Rolfe took to the mound against the Falcons she clearly showed the hype was reality.
“Her performance was impressive as she struck out 10 and her teammates made some great plays for her in the field,” said Elder-Weaver. “Each game she has come out stronger and better than the previous game. She is a great kid with a great work ethic, so great things will happen for her.”
The future looks bright for Rolfe, but in reality, her past looks as good as any resume that has stepped onto the Lady Patriots Field. She transferred to Madison from Alexandria, AL, located just south of Gadsden. While playing for Alexandria Valley Cubs High School, Rolfe was a First-Team All State selection as a seventh grader. The next year, she was again an All-State pick only this time as a first baseman and was named the Calhoun County Most Valuable Player.
“I began playing softball at age four and took up pitching seriously at age 10 while playing for travel teams, which I still play for after the school season is complete,” said Rolfe. “My fastest pitch has been clocked at 68 miles per hour. I usually overpower hitters, but I’m also throwing curves and screws and mix in the high rise pitch. With my long legs, I’m able to push off the pitching rubber and stride out with my body allowing me to suffer no arm injuries.”
Rolfe took pitching lessons from two former collegiate players and began to master her art in the circle. Against the Falcons, she zipped through the lineup knowing her teammates had her back. She added, “I have trust in my defense as they made some terrific plays. Our offense did well that game, too.”
The straight-A student once tossed a perfect game in youth league softball and being able to accomplish the feat a second time leads her to believe in her good luck ways while in the circle.
“Yes, I always draw a cross in the dirt after each out and I’m always grabbing dirt to keep my pitching hand dry,” said Rolfe. “I also put on my socks last when dressing for a game and I have the same friend braid my hair.”
Good luck combined with great talent equals perfect pitching for Rolfe who is the only child to Tim and Stacie Rolfe.
