In the field, she is a defense stalwart with a versatility that allows her to play a number of positions in the infield and outfield.
This past season, Uchida showcased those skills with the Bulldogs, as she put up impressive numbers on offense and defense. It is because of those skills that she has been named to the Southern Section Division III All-CIF second team.
“I really wasn’t expecting anything like this, but it’s a great feeling to see my name [on the list],” Uchida said. “It’s really because of all the help that I’ve gotten at Burbank, and outside of school, that has helped me a lot.”
Uchida isn’t the only local athlete to be honored with an All-CIF award. Providence had three honorees, Cassie Lohman, Ariane Lebrilla and Natalie Ficocelli, and residents Emily Seidel and Jenna Martin made it from Village Christian.
Uchida, who has made a verbal commitment to the University of Utah, was an offensive force for Burbank (12-15, 10-4 and third in the Pacific League).
She was second on the team with a .469 average (30 for 64), drove in 30 runs, scored 24 runs and had five doubles, five triples and four home runs. In addition, she drew 11 walks and struck out just three times. In the field, she had a .971 fielding percentage and made just two errors in 104 chances.
“Kassy’s progression from her sophomore to her junior year was just amazing,” Burbank Coach Nicole Drabecki said. “She is just such a hard worker and she is always trying to get better. It is because of her hard work that she has been able to be successful.”
Uchida is definitely dedicated to her sport. Along with having various coaches, she also does strength and agility training at Burbank’s On Deck Baseball. In addition, she has been taught throughout her life by her father, Scott, and even trains at a batting cage at the Uchida home.
