Gabi Rubbe
School: Penn-Trafford
Class: Senior
Sport: Softball
Claim to fame: Rubbe is off to a hot start for the defending PIAA Class 5A champion Warriors. She went 2 for 3 with a triple, home run and five RBIs in a 13-3 win over Kiski Area, added two RBIs in a 15-0 win over McKeesport, and had a double, triple and two RBIs in a 12-1 victory over Latrobe. She is hitting .500 with eight RBIs and six runs in six games.
What have you been doing well at the plate so far?
I have been staying calm and focused. I am doing my best to keep my head on the ball and hands above it.
Do you like hitting seventh in the order?
Yes. It is less stressful to be farther down in the lineup.
Where did you put your PIAA gold medal from last season?
I put it next to my championship ring on my dresser along with my field hockey awards.
What was it like winning a state title with your sister, Bella?
It was something I will always cherish. Winning states for our last year together was very special.
Have you always had a sibling rivalry?
Yes. We attempted to play travel ball together, but that did not last long. We both played for Pittsburgh Spirit but on two different teams. I would sometimes guest for her team, but knew not to say much.
Are you similar players in any way?
I would say we have some similarities. We are both consistent at the plate, always the loudest on the bench, and both like to take charge.
You’re listed as a utility player. Where have you played in the field and what is your favorite position?
I have played every position but pitcher. I used to be a catcher before I tore my labrum running cross country. My favorite position is outfield or first base.
You have been battling the flu? Are you back on track yet physically and has it slowed you down?
Yes. The flu got me when we were set to play Armstrong. It was very hard for me to miss a game, but I feel I have returned stronger and ready for whatever the season brings.
Why do you wear No. 00?
Double-zero sounds great. I always had (No.) 17 in travel, but Cam Ponko had it in high school, so I chose 00.
You also play field hockey. Can that sport translate to softball and vice versa?
Field hockey keeps me fit and active. There is a lot more running involved, but the swing is pretty similar, just in a dfferent direction.
What sport do you want to play in college?
I was recruited and offered a spot on the Washington & Jefferson field hockey team but fell in love with Slippery Rock, so I decided to focus on my academics. I am definitely considering club softball in the spring.
What are some of your hobbies?
I love to snowboard and hang out with friends.
People would be surprised to know I …
I have a pet bearded dragon named Jingles.
Have you been through any adversity in your life?
Yes. When I was a sophomore I tore my labrum running cross country and had to go to physical therapy. I was told that if I continued to catch, it could cause more damage, so I decided to give it up.
Can this team make another playoff run? How bad does the program want to win a WPIAL title?
Yes. I am confident we can make the playoffs, as long as we stay focused on what is important and hit the ball. We really want a WPIAL title.
Do you have any superstitions or good luck charms?
Yes. I used to have to eat oranges before every game last year. But the last three games, I haven’t had any oranges, so maybe they are bad luck this season.
Who is your sports idol?
Only for snowboarding, Zeb Powell.
What is your favorite TV show and movie?
“Gilmore Girls” and “Teen Beach.”
If Penn-Trafford had flag football, would you play?
Absolutely. I am excited that SRU will be getting a women’s flag football team in 2027.
What is the best advice any coach has given to you (and who is that coach)?
Coach Kay would always say “Go out and play like a honey badger.” It means to go out and play with an I-don’t-care attitude, which has been my motto this year. Coach Kay moved out of state at the end of my sophomore year.
Silas Morris
School: Greensburg Salem
Class: Senior
Sport: Tennis
Claim to fame: Previously falling short served as a good foundation for Morris at the Section 1-2A tournament. After losing in the semifinals as a sophomore and junior, Morris toppled top-seeded Ravi Stinger of Winchester Thursday to become a section champion for the first time. Morris, who is an avid pickleball player outside of tennis season, playing around four times a week, enjoys the challenge that comes with playing in tournaments.
What did you learn from past section tournaments that helped you win this season?
I didn’t go in completely expecting to win. I figured I would try my best. If I got there, I’d be happy. If not, I wouldn’t have been disappointed. The other experiences of not getting (to the final) help me handle losing. When I was down and out in matches, I could learn from those experiences of being down and out and not being able to come back.
How old were you when you started playing tennis?
It was the summer before my freshman year, around 13.
What did you like about tennis?
It was fun. I enjoyed the competition. I enjoyed hitting the ball hard.
What appeals to you about racquet sports?
It’s all on me. I like that it’s challenging and competitive. It’s up to me whether I win or lose. If I try my best and do my best, I can win.
What is the difference between playing tennis and pickleball?
Some things translate. It is a racquet sport. The strategy in singles pickleball is similar to singles tennis. I think the biggest difference is the racquet size. You are hitting it a good bit higher on the racquet for tennis. It’s hard to adjust. I have to tell myself before this is a tennis racquet and not a pickleball paddle.
What allowed you to win the section final?
It was my mental strength. I didn’t let anything faze me. I was focused on the match.
What are you looking forward to about WPIALs?
I’ll be excited to try my hand at WPIALs again. I want to see if I can do better. Maybe with higher seeding, I can go farther. It’s still a hard draw.