Staff Report

(Editor’s note: Our 5 Questions series highlights athletes who sometimes get overlooked despite playing major roles on their respective teams. We want our fans to get to know these student-athletes — at least briefly — and give you some insight into their personalities.)

The Absegami High softball team has gotten off to a great start this season, as the Braves won their first two games against tough opponents in Holy Spirit and Hammonton. They beat the Spartans 8-5 in the season opener, then held off a late Hammonton rally to win, 4-3, on Wednesday afternoon.

The Braves have high hopes this season, in part because they have great senior leadership to go along with some young talent, including sophomore pitcher Meghan Johansen. Senior Sarah Czeslaw is a feisty center fielder and Lily Ortiz was a key cog in the Braves’ girls basketball success the last few seasons. Absegami also has infielder Madison Band, catcher Alyssa Bailey and shortstop Laylah Collins — a transfer from Buena Regional who should become eligible soon and be a major boost to the offense.

They also have Kaura Jorgensen, a senior and daughter of assistant coach Kevin Jorgensen. Kaura only has two career at-bats — but she’s hitting .500, as her one hit was an RBI double in a big win over Pleasantville last spring. She may not play much, but Jorgensen provides outstanding senior leadership on the bench and is setting a great example of what a team player looks like to the younger stars of the team, including her sister, Kali Jorgensen, a freshman infielder.

Staff Writer Dave O’Sullivan caught up with Kaura after the Braves’ win over Hammonton to get to know her a little bit.

Check out our 5 QUESTIONS with Absegami senior first baseman Kaura Jorgensen

QUESTION: What is the most fun thing about softball?

ANSWER: I think the most fun thing, especially with this team, is being a part of a family. Everyone cheers for each other, they pick each other up, they are always there for each other. And it’s always nice to have a day like this where we keep hyping each other up. It’s just a very positive atmosphere.

QUESTION: What’s been the best moment of your softball career?

ANSWER: Of my entire life? I would say just joining this sport in general. I didn’t play softball until I was about 10 years old, and I’ve loved it ever since. It’s amazing.

QUESTION: At what age should high school kids start doing their own laundry?

ANSWER: Oh, boy! (I’m still not doing mine — just kidding.) I started before high school because my parents taught me. But, if I didn’t have to do it, I still wouldn’t be doing it.

QUESTION: If high school players got paid, what would your contract demands be?

ANSWER: Oh, my goodness, give me $20 an hour! Insurance would be nice, too.

QUESTION: If you could go on tour with any band or singer, who would it be and why?

ANSWER: That’s a hard question. I would say The Deftones because I’m going to their concert on Friday. Right now, it would definitely be them.