Newcomer Rodriguez Making an Early Impact

Jose Rodriguez '24, Staff Writer | Media & Communications

On Monday, March 27, Salem State softball player Sydney Rodriguez (Brighton, Colorado) was named Massachusetts State Collegiate Athletic Conference (MASCAC) Rookie of the Week. The freshman batted .647 -- going 9 for 18 -- including a pair of extra bases as the Vikings' second baseman notched her first collegiate accolade.

This week, Salem State athletics profiled the talented young player.

Rodriguez, who has been playing softball since she was 12 years old, is currently batting .548 with 8 RBI in the first 14 games of the 2023 season.

"I am definitely proud of myself," Rodriguez said when she saw on Salem State's Athletics Instagram that she was named MASCAC Rookie of the week. "I felt that I did well and was very excited when that happened, and I called was my parents right away." she said. Rodriguez was appreciative of all the texts of support from her friends and family for this achievement. 

As a freshman student-athlete, "It can be overwhelming balancing academics and sports" Rodriguez said. "It's definitely doable as long as you manage your time well."  

Rodriguez is a key piece this year for coach Russo, who should help the Vikings tremendously moving forward in the 2023 season.