Imagine that you are the younger sister of a softball prodigy. You watch your sister become one of the most prolific players at the local high school, then see her go onto a productive career at The Ohio State University.
Most younger siblings in that situation would become jealous.
Not Allysa Lancaster.
Instead, Lancaster developed her own talents on the softball field and became one of the most prolific pitchers in Sandy Valley history.
"Ever since I was little, I always had the question asked, 'Are you going to be as good as your sister?' I knew I had big shoes to fill, following in her foot steps, but I never really was pressured by her or my family to be as good," said Lancaster when asked about how much her sister, Nicole, influenced her. "We both have our talents. Mine is pitching, and hers is everything else."
Those talents helped Sandy Valley to its first appearance in the state tournament and a 25-6 record this past season. On the year, Allysa was 20-6 and struck out 218 batters. It was the third time in four varsity seasons that she won 20 games.
She will embark on her own collegiate career this fall when she takes her talents to Notre Dame College in South Euclid.
So, just who is better on the softball field? Is it Nicole or is it Allysa?
"We always joke about who's better (it's a sister thing), and although I know it's her, I always tell her at least I'm better at pitching," said Allysa. "Nicole was an amazing athlete and one of the most talented athletes I have ever seen. It's nice to have someone so close to me to look up to."
Allysa can also say she one-upped her sister by leading Sandy Valley to the state tournament for the first time in school history.
"It was one of the most amazing feelings ever. And I was just so proud of our team, and knew all of our hard work had finally paid off over the years," said Allysa. "It was also great to have the support of our whole community. Everyone knew how big of a deal it was; what we did. The team, the fans, everyone."
Among those fans was Nicole.
Sibling rivalry is an interesting dynamic. But for Allysa and Nicole Lancaster, it has never really been about rivalry.
It has been about love and admiration.
Until next time, remember, these are just, My Thoughts on Paper.
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