Only six pitchers in Missouri history struck out more batters than Rachel Rook in high school. Rook is about to find out what it takes to carry that success to the next level. She’s signed her commitment to play college softball at Southeast Missouri State University next year.
Rook says she landed at SEMO through a series of events that started with a camp at Mizzou. The SEMO head coach is a former Mizzou assistant, saw Rook pitch, and made a connection. A Lady Tiger appearance at a Southeast Missouri tournament last year also piqued the interest of the school.
Rook says she’s looking forward to the higher level of competition, because she knows it will force her to up her game, as well. Instead of facing a lineup with a few good hitters, every opposing batter will be a challenge.
“It’s going to be everybody’s 4-hole every game. It won’t be like one through five are good and the rest aren’t. You have to play every inning of every game, and I’m really excited for that,” she says.
Rook says her time as a Lady Tiger, playing for coach Lee Dishman, has prepared her for the opportunity.
“Dishman expected a lot out of me, and I expected a lot out of myself, and in college you’re expected to be at your best all the time. I think he prepared me for that.”