Payson’s Paulson driven to succeed
Junior Ari Paulson is azcentral sports’ Small Schools Softball Player of the Year after guiding Payson to the Division III state semifinals.
Paulson led Payson (29-5) in batting with a .648 average as it went undefeated in its section. She also led her team in doubles (18) and RBIs (47).
“It was a pretty successful year, and I was able to accomplish a lot of my goals and set new goals for summer and next year,” Paulson said. “Although the season didn't end exactly the way I would've liked it to, my team made a strong run and I really enjoyed this season.”
Paulson also was the No. 1 pitcher for Payson and racked up impressive statistics. She compiled a 0.86 earned-run average, had a16-0 record and struck out 174 batters in 89 innings pitched. Paulson combined with her freshman sister, Arissa, for a lethal one-two punch. Arissa (6-0) had a 0.85 ERA, and 64 strikeouts in 33 innings.
“They are competitive,” Payson coach Will Dunman said. “So I think that continues to drive Ari. They have a good relationship. They do a lot of things together in and out of athletics as well and mainly in softball.”
Dunman said over the course of the year the older Paulson pitched, played second, third and in the outfield. This versatility opened up a new world for Dunman, who said he knew he could put her in any place and she would work hard at it. Moving around also proved to be something Paulson enjoyed.
“I think it's really important to know how to play multiple positions,” Paulson said. “Being able to do so opens up more opportunities for me, and I think it's a lot of fun.”