For the fourth edition of In the Bullpen with Raja Sandhu, Raja speaks with Elena Friedman, a senior and member of the softball team at Montverde Academy who is committed to continue her academic and athletic career at Jacksonville University. Elena reflects on her journey as a student-athlete, the milestones that shaped her career, and the dedication required to compete at the next level. This interview highlights the perseverance, leadership, and growth that define her experience both on the field and in the classroom.

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Raja: When did you realize you wanted to play softball at the collegiate level?
Elena: I originally never wanted to play at the collegiate level; however, as a freshman and sophomore, when I began getting interest, that shifted.

Raja: What factors influenced your decision to commit to Jacksonville University?
Elena: JU just felt God sent. I had never emailed or reached out to them. They came to watch a commit on the opposing team, and I sparked their interest. I then went on my visit, and everything just felt perfect, truly like home. 

Raja: How has your mindset changed from freshman year to senior year?
Elena: My mindset has changed in terms of my ability to balance social, academic, and athletic stressors. As I've grown the challenges I've gone through have shaped the person I've become.

Raja: What does leadership mean to you as a senior on the team?
Elena: To me, leadership is leading by example. I believe it's my job to show my younger teammates what a positive attitude, one hundred percent effort, even when I only have seventy percent, and how to move on from mistakes looks like. 

Raja: How have you handled the pressure that comes with the recruiting process?
Elena: I trusted in God. I knew he would lead me to the place I was meant to be. So while it was stressful, I had to just put it in his hands and keep grinding on my end.

Raja: What has been the most rewarding part of your high school softball career?
Elena: The most rewarding part was winning the FHSAA 3A state championship in 2024 with MVA. We were the first Monteverde softball team in history to win, and it went to show the bond our team had and all the hard work we put in. We weren't the highest-ranked or the best, but we were truly a family willing to do whatever it takes for each other. 

Raja: What is one adversity you faced during your career, and how did it shape you?
Elena: My freshman year, I had a trochleoplasty alongside multiple ligament repairs. I was told I would never be able to run again, much less play softball, but I wanted it. My recovery was supposed to be about fourteen months; I was back on the field in nine. I started physical therapy three days after surgery and worked every day for over a year. I truly learned the meaning of hard work and what happens when you put your all into the things you desire.

Raja: How do you prepare differently now compared to earlier in your high school career?
Elena: I've learned the mental side of the game and that it's just as important as the physical side. It holds the same weight, if not more. If your mind's not right your body never will be.

Raja: What skills—both athletic and personal—do you feel most prepared to bring to the college level?
Elena: I believe my dedication and loyalty. When I start something, I stick to it and work until I get it right. As well as my strong loyalty to my team.

Raja: How do you stay focused during your final season while preparing for the transition to college?
Elena: I want to win another state championship. We fell short last year, but I know we have the team to come out on top again. Our bond is really special as everything that could go wrong did, yet our love for each other is unwavering.

Raja: What role have your coaches and family played in your success?
Elena: My family has pushed me to be the best possible version of myself on and off the field. I truly don't think my dad has missed a game, even if that means watching it on his phone states away. They support me through it all. My MVA coaches, specifically Coach K (Kahley Armstrong), believed in me when others didn't and gave me the chance to develop into the player I am today. She's pushed me to keep working athletically but also shown me that I am more than just a softball player.

Raja: How do you want to be remembered by your teammates at Montverde Academy?
Elena: I want to be remembered by teammates as more than an athlete, but as an example that athletes can do it all. That they can take AP classes, get the good grades, be the President or VP of clubs, work a job, have a social life, and still play softball. 

Raja: What advice would you give to underclassmen who hope to play in college one day?
Elena: I would tell them to trust the process. There's a school for everyone. Keep working, and their time will come. 

Raja: What are you most excited about as you begin your journey at Jacksonville University?
Elena: I'm most excited to play at the D1 level and face tough competition. I also can't wait to play against the girls I grew up learning the game with. For example, Leila Susia, 2025 MVA grad playing at Queens (Queens University of Charlotte), we've played together since 12U to next year, going head to head in the ASUN Conference.

Raja: Looking back, what moment in your softball career stands out as a turning point in your career?
Elena: Coming to MVA was a turning point. My skills grew, but also my mindset and love for the game.

About Raja: Raja is a senior at Montverde Academy and is a member of its baseball team. Upon graduation, Raja plans to attend college where he aspires to play baseball and study medicine.