At the age of eight, Mercedez Morgan fell in love for the first time and began a long-lasting relationship that has spanned 12 years. Red Bland softball was where this love story began.
With her mother, father and grandfather as her Red Bland coaches, softball became something of a family affair, and deep bonds were built through the game. Morgan continued her park league softball career until the age of 13 when she first joined a local travel team.
As she progressed, Morgan’s talent earned her a spot on two of central Illinois’ premier organizations – Capital City Chaos and The Hitting Center – with the former reaching the national championship. In Taylorville High School in Taylorville, Illinois, she earned varsity letters as a four-year starter, moving in from the outfield and replacing a senior as starting second baseman. Later in her career, she was moved over to shortstop.
Along with being a four-year starter, Morgan was also a three-year captain. However, the role was not one the humble player necessarily wanted. “I like to help people out. I like the leadership role but I wouldn’t refer to myself as a captain. I don’t need a title because that’s what a teammate does, you’re supposed to help your teammates out,” Morgan said.
The versatility and experience Morgan will bring to the Blackburn softball team includes great flexibility, proven leadership and a quiet and humble approach, adding to the intact lineup from a successful 2016-2017 season under the direction of third year head coach Kerry Crum. “She can play any position, plus handle a bat. [She] was a two year starter at Lincoln College and standout at Taylorville High School, including being an all-conference player. Mercedez brings experience, talent and leadership to us all. [She] will be a very nice addition to the school and softball team,” he said.
Morgan steps in the box
As the Beavers take to the field this fall in preparation for what appears to be a season with high potential, Morgan looks to do her part and build on an already successful career. “I fell in love with the sport, but learning some of the responsibilities, teamwork and leadership, I could apply that to other things,” she said. “Being on a team helped me a lot because you have to trust people, you have to be there, you have to do your part, but you also have to be there for somebody else.”
*Jordan Wood is a member of the softball team