Published: June 23, 2009 12:03 am      

Alice Lloyd next for fleet-footed Rakes

CANNONSBURG — Alice Lloyd College’s softball team just received an infusion of speed.

Boyd County outfielder’s Danielle Rakes signed this spring with the Kentucky NAIA school.

Rakes batted better than .400 as a senior and kept pressure on opponents after she reached base.

“Danielle is the fastest girl I’ve coached at any level,’’ said Boyd County coach Geoff Stewart. “She went 110 percent all the time and made quite a few great plays in the outfield due to her speed.’’

As a base-stealer, Rakes has been pretty much automatic. She swiped 26 in 26 attempts this season after topping the 30 mark as a junior without being caught.

“I like to run,’’ Rakes said. “It’s one of the easiest things you can do. Either you’ve got it, or you don’t.’’

Stewart estimated that more than half the speedster’s hits this season came on bunt singles. Rakes also displayed a strong arm from the outfield that allowed her to throw out seven baserunners this season.

Her performance helped lead Boyd County to a 20-win season and district runner-up finish.

Stewart said that Rakes, who has played varsity softball since eighth grade, will be missed for more than her athletic ability and contributions on the field.

“She hates to lose and has a great attitude for the game,’’ Stewart said. “Danielle is always cheering in the dugout regardless of the situation. That’s the kind of person she is.’’

Rakes made a visit to Alice Lloyd during the winter after coach David Hatfield expressed interest to Boyd County’s coaching staff.

“I went down to see if it was something I would like to do,’’ Rakes said. “I liked the campus and the whole setup there. It’s an amazing feeling. Unlike a lot of girls at Boyd County, I will be one of the only ones that pursued softball later on.’’

Rakes is full of anticipation, along with some butterflies.

“I’m kind of nervous,’’ she said. “It’s a big step.’’

ROCKY STANLEY can be reached at rstanley@dailyindependent.com or (606) 326-2671.