Trujillo a big hit for Tribe

Shannon Trujillo would probably make a good football player.

As a catcher for the Burroughs High softball team, Trujillo doesn't mind getting into collisions at home plate. In fact, when she is bracing for a throw to the plate, and she eyes an opposing runner barreling down the third-base line, the senior almost relishes the possibility of a violent impact.

"I just love it," Trujillo said of the contact. "That's my favorite part. I really wish there was more contact in softball. Even with the pain thing and the passed balls and getting hit, it's really worth it. The pain eventually goes away and the bruises and the scars after are kind of cool."

Spoken like more of a linebacker than a softball player.

Burroughs first-year Coach Doug Nicol said being a physical player behind the plate is something that makes Trujillo a truly motivated competitor.

"She has just worked so hard in the weight room to get stronger, and it's paid off," Nicol said. "She is very tough and she just loves to put on the catcher's gear and she likes to take the hits. She just loves the physicality of the position. She is just meant for that position."

Being a physical presence behind the dish is just one of the many talents that Trujillo has brought to the Indians program. And behind her leadership — along with the help of a group of talented teammates — Burroughs has been able to thrive the past two seasons.

Trujillo played a big part in an important victory Thursday against Crescenta Valley. She had two hits and scored two runs in Burroughs' 8-2 Pacific League win at Olive Park. The win puts the Indians in the driver's seat to capture their second consecutive league championship.

With Trujillo's help, Burroughs won the league crown last season, notching the program's first title in 28 years.

"Last year was great winning it," said Trujillo, who has been playing competitive softball since she was in fifth grade. "It was really fun because it was the first time I was able to come out and be the catcher for Burroughs. It was great for our seniors and great to see how happy they were. I'm just glad I was able to be a part of it."

Last season, Trujillo was an All-Area and all-league standout, batting .365 with 17 runs scored and 16 runs batted in for the Indians (8-4, 4-0 in league).