When you think of the 2019 McDonald County Lady Mustang softball team that won three district championships, including back-to-back titles in 2018 and 2019, Kristen Cornell is probably not the first person who comes to mind.
Cornell is that player who goes unnoticed and unrecognized while doing the little things that are necessary for all teams to win.
She wouldn't make the flashy plays on defense, just all the routine ones. She wouldn't hit the big home run, but she would get the timely hit or walk or the much-needed sacrifice.
Someone who did recognize Cornell for her talent and contributions to the Lady Mustangs' success was the coaching staff at Allen County Community College in Iola, Kan.
Cornell signed a letter of intent to play softball at the school during a ceremony held on Jan. 9 at MCHS.
"It's a lot of commitment to sign," Cornell said. "I am excited though. I think it's going to go really well. I like the school because it is small and easy to get around. It reminded me a lot of home, which was comforting."
Cornell played second base as a senior after moving from the outfield where she started as a junior. She said she wasn't sure what her position would be in college because she worked out at both positions when she tried out at Allen County.
One thing is for sure -- she will have one teammate who knows her quite well.
In a rare situation, Kristen Cornell will join her sister, Kaylee, on the Red Devils softball team. It was after Kaylee signed with Allen County that Kristen became interested in playing at the school.
"I am very excited to play with her again," Kristen said. "Even playing just one year without her was really weird. We have played together since we started playing softball."
McDonald County softball coach Skyler Rawlins said Cornell's versatility and team-first attitude contributed very highly to the team's past success.
"Kristen was a big part of a good run for us," Rawlins said. "It was a good senior class. She was part of three district championships and three conference championships. She did a great job of getting on base and, defensively, she was very flexible for us and would fill in where we needed her to give us the best chance to be successful. I wish her the best at Allen County."
Kristen is the daughter of Randy and Sheila Cornell. She plans to major in education in college.
"I would like to thank my teammates for always making me my best," Kristen said. "Thank you to my coaches for making me the athlete I am. Thank you to my parents for always giving me opportunities, and a special thanks to my sister for giving me the encouragement and support to do this."
Sports on 01/16/2020