2026 getting to know Ryann Hammond from Centennial

 

Ryann Hammond

Centennial High School

1st/OF/SS

2027

5’6", 125 lbs

Jersey Number: 2

Awards won or earned: Freshman- Rookie of the year, Scholar Award.

Sophomore: 1st team all-city, MVP, all-city award

HUDL LINK: none

Other sports played: none

Please post something from last season that sticks out to you. It can be from a game, practice, or something funny on the bus ride to or from the game. Any moment that sticks out to you.

One thing that stuck out from last season was just how close our team got. Whether they were big wins or fun practices, there were a lot of good memories.

How long have you played softball?

I’ve been playing softball since tee-ball, but I didn’t really start taking it seriously until about last year.

Who or what got you started playing the game?

My parents first put me in T-ball when I was little, but what really made me keep playing was wanting to be just as good as my older brother.

I was told you usually play centerfield or first base. In the game I watched you play, you were at shortstop. Where on the field do you feel you are best?

Honestly, I feel comfortable wherever my coach puts me. I like being able to play different positions, and no matter where I’m at, I’m always giving 100%.

What do you feel is the strongest part of your game?

I’d definitely say my speed is the strongest part of my game. It helps me a lot both in the field and on the bases.

Which part of your game do you feel you need to improve the most to take your game to another level?

I think I can keep improving my hitting consistency and confidence at the plate.

What has been the best part of the season?

Definitely run-ruling Whetstone and then coming back to beat them in the tiebreaker. Those were huge moments for our team.

What has been the toughest part of the season?

The toughest part of the season has probably been learning how to stay mentally locked in during tough games.

What do you feel the team needs to do to win a few playoff games?

I think we just need to keep our composure better and bounce back faster after bad innings. If we stay confident and play together, we can make a run.

In the Columbus City League, Centennial and Whetstone seem to have separated themselves from the rest of the league. In your opinion, what does the rest of the league need to do to catch up with you guys and Whetstone?

I think other teams just need more consistency and confidence. There’s talent in the league, and everybody keeps getting better every year.

Who has been the best pitcher that you have faced this season, as well as the team she was on?

Probably the top pitcher from Newark Catholic. She was definitely one of the toughest pitchers we’ve faced this season.

I was informed that you are already drawing some interest from some colleges. Would you share some of those teams with the readers?

The College of Wooster, Wittenberg University, Cuyahoga Community College, Lakeland Community College, and Terra State Community College, plus a few others.

What has been the biggest lesson that you have learned from being an athlete?

The biggest lesson I’ve learned is that hard work really does pay off, but you also have to stay mentally tough and keep working even when things get hard.

Who is your favorite athlete?

My favorite athlete is Nijaree Canady.

Have you ever gone to an Ohio State softball game?

No, but I definitely want to some time.

Outside of sports, what are you doing for fun?

Outside of sports, I like hanging out with my friends and family and just relaxing when I have free time.

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