Sometimes you need to take a chance.
Or, in Samy Staublein’s case, just listen to your mother.
While pondering college destinations in the fall of her sophomore year, the now-St. Hubert’s senior definitely had no interest in attending Widener University. Nothing against the school; it simply didn’t seem like a fit.
In October of last year, Staublein’s mom insisted that she attend a Widener open-house event. With gritted teeth, Staublein acquiesced.
The result? After graduation, Staublein will head south to Aston, where she’ll study health sciences and play softball for the Widener Pride.
Mama knew best.
“I absolutely fell in love with the school,” said Staublein. “I couldn’t believe I’d put off touring there for that long. After verbally committing to play softball, I felt a huge sense of relief.
“When I started touring colleges super early, people definitely thought I was crazy,” she said. “However, I was always certain I wanted to play softball in college, so wanted to be sure about where to put my focus. Always, education is first. I could get hurt, a college coach I’ve come to love could leave, anything can happen.
“I had to be sure I loved the school.”
Thus armed with the knowledge of her upcoming future, Staublein enjoyed her recent athletic seasons in volleyball and softball with a much more relaxed, carefree mind.
In softball, St. Hubert’s reached the Philadelphia Catholic League semifinals after a two-year absence from the postseason. Led by first-team All-Catholics Staublein (3-for-4, two doubles) and freshman pitcher Sam Bovitt (complete-game shutout), the Bambies blanked Nazareth Academy, 5-0, in the quarterfinals and then had two-time defending champion Conwell-Egan on the ropes.
Despite Staublein’s two hits and run scored that helped turn a 5-0 deficit into a 5-4 nailbiter in the sixth inning, St. Hubert’s eventually succumbed, 9-4.
“After struggling and not making the playoffs my freshman and sophomore years, this year’s softball season meant the world to me,” said Staublein. “It was Coach Jaz’s (Jazmin Ortiz) second season with us and we really came together. Of course, our freshman pitcher helped tremendously, but beyond that, our chemistry this year was just different.
“It was super upsetting when we lost to Egan. Of course, they’re the team that everyone always thinks is untouchable, but we had them. We did. So to lose that game really felt crushing.
“Despite all that, we have only lost two seniors. We’ll absolutely be right back in the running for a PCL championship next year. I know it.”
For the third straight season, Staublein was chosen to participate in the 20th annual Carpenter Cup softball tournament. Although the Philadelphia Catholic League team lost all three games, two of them remained winnable through to the end.
Among the defensive highlights was a ground ball laser to third base, which Staublein scooped on her backhand and fired a perfect strike to first base.
“Carpenter Cup is a tremendous experience,” said Staublein. “Playing for Coach Jackie is amazing. She’s the absolute best at what she does.
“But it’s also always been so much fun getting to know all the girls. The days are long and we really get to know one another. So now, after each PCL game, it feels like we’re each playing old teammates and hug and chat.”
Staublein was referring to longtime Archbishop Wood coach Jackie Ecker, who has managed numerous Carpenter Cup teams. A veteran mentor who stresses the value of commitment and communication to her young players while never forgetting the importance of fun and occasional levity, Ecker lauded Staublein’s all-around contributions.
“I’ve had the privilege of coaching Samy in the Carpenter Cup over the past few years, and she has been a true team player,” said Ecker. “Even without knowing all her teammates well, she’s always quick to lift others up and lead by example.
“Samy is a hard worker, highly coachable, and brings exceptional athleticism to the field. Her strong bat and dedication have been a tremendous asset to the PCL, and I have no doubt she will continue to thrive at Widener after she graduates. She will be truly missed in the dugout next year.”
Though not etched in stone, Staublein plans to major in occupational therapy at Widener. She vividly recalls watching her younger brother benefit from restorative services and aided by an “amazing” therapist when he was a baby.
“It’s a job I can really see myself doing,” she said. “I’d love to work with kids, and it’s the sort of profession that I think will also allow me the opportunity to be available for my own kids and their sports come that time.”
Staublein described Widener’s health and human services programs and facilities like “none I’ve ever seen.”
Recognizing that college sports and academics loom as obvious challenges, Staublein understands the demands of sacrifice and loyalty.
“I’ve given up a lot my entire life playing travel softball,” said Staublein. “I’ve missed dances and sleepovers and all sorts of events. Playing Division III softball is really going to give me the opportunity to focus on my education, which is the real goal after all this, while playing the sport I’ve worked so hard at my entire life, and yet still enjoy and get the most out of my college experience.”
It’s not like Staublein’s senior year will be a breeze. In addition to playing volleyball and softball, she will also serve as student council treasurer and a member of the National Honor Society.
Staublein isn’t concerned.
“St. Hubert’s is special,” she said. “The ‘Sisterhood’ that’s so well known at St. Hubert’s wouldn’t be what it is if it weren’t a Catholic school.”
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Contact John Knebels at jknebels@gmail.com or on ‘X’ @johnknebels.
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