By Cristhian Plansecia/Asst. Sports Director
Panthers’ outfielder Jackie Schoff at one point considered giving up her bat and glove, following a gruesome injury she suffered in high school.
The junior from Brandenton, FL tore her shoulder labrum in her sophomore year at Lakewood Ranch High School and was forced to sit out for over a year to fully heal from her injury.
“When I had my shoulder surgery done, it had me debating either to play softball for the rest of my life or be done,” said Schoff. “Working to get my body healthier, it helped me to understand that I love this game.”
After overcoming a torn labrum, the junior outfielder decided to work towards her goal of playing softball in college.
“My recovery was the biggest turning point in my life. Once I was able to conquer that obstacle, I knew any else was possible,” said Schoff.
She rehabbed her shoulder for eight months with physical therapy, then began a two-month process of a throwing program. Schoff road to recovery was indurated with interminable irritation.
Junior outfielder Jackie Schoff (9) prepares to swing against Hofstra on Feb. 11, 2018 at the FIU Softball Stadium. (Nicholas Poblete/Panther Press)
“I had to suck it up with the pain that I had while building the strength back on my shoulder,” said Schoff. “After the help of my physical therapist back in Sarasota and the help of my coaches, at that point, I knew I didn’t want to quit the game.”
The speedy outfielder learned her quickness and stamina from track. She loved the intensity of sprints and competing against others on a one-on-one basis. Mostly feeling the thrill of an adrenaline rush, made it matched her embodied persona that she displays on the perfected-diamond softball field.
At the age of four, Schoff picked up a bat and didn’t think twice. She only had doubt of playing when her devastating injury in high school occurred. She questioned for a moment, but it only lasted for seconds to change her mind.
“It was love at first sight for me, with all the coaches and players I was around, and all the friendships I made,” said Schoff. “Definitely, I will never leave the sport. “It taught me so many life lessons and got me where I am today.”
She took a year off to cheer, but it wasn’t for her. She didn’t like the “makeup and the big bows” rather prefers being out on the field, as she missed the dirt and the fast pace of softball.
Schoff is majoring in exercise science After four years of college; she plans to continue her studies.
“My body has been through a ton, so it’s taking a toll on my body,” said Schoff.
She intends to apply to graduate school for occupational therapy.
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