OSHKOSH, Wis. — University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh first baseman Hannah Ritter recently became the Wisconsin Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (WIAC) all-time hits leader. It’s a record that’s stood since 2011.
Ritter said despite the pressure to make it happen, she knew it was just a matter of time before she racked up more than 238 hits.
“Some of my teammates and myself thought it was a hit before actually, so it was cool to kind of celebrate when I tied it and also to celebrate afterwards,” said Ritter. “They did a little announcement, which was super sweet. That’s not something that they had to do, but I definitely felt all the love in that moment. So that was great.”
Ritter said it was a proud moment. It was made even better because her family and friends saw it happen. She said their support is a big part of her success.
Ritter said practice also contributed to her becoming the new record-holder.
“I know at the plate, like if I don’t perform that day, that doesn’t mean Oshkosh is going to lose,” said Ritter. “Now I have 21 other girls that are there to back me up and that just makes it so much more fun.”
Ritter is a fifth-year senior. Normally, her career would be over after four years. But UW-Oshkosh softball head coach Scott Beyer said she lost a year due to the pandemic.
“I’d say, I don’t think it’s ever going to get touched again,” said Beyer. “I think it’s one of the most special records you can have. She is one of the most pure hitters.”
Ritter is the oldest of four. She said she tries to be a role model for both her siblings and teammates. Now, Ritter said she is just taking it all in and living in the moment.
“We could be stressing out over every pitch, every at bat, every out, and instead we’re kind of just enjoying the moment,” said Ritter. “Playing where our feet are. It’s been a great five years.”
Ritter said five years ago she did not know if she wanted to play softball in college. Now, she said she’s proud to be in the record books as the all-time hits leader of a conference that has been around for over a century.