Softball has always been a rewarding constant in Emily Rasco’s life, and she wants it to stay that way.

While sharing time in the circle with Elizabeth Smith last season for Cathedral High School, Rasco started to notice an alarming change.

“I stopped pitching because I got to where I was struggling a lot,” she said. “It wasn’t fun. I guess it kind of did get me down.”

So, Rasco made up her mind. As one of two seniors this season, she will lead the Lady Wave solely at first base.

“I knew I was going to have to be pitching every day this year to get to where I would throw strikes,” she said. “I didn’t want to ruin my senior year by always having to struggle and worry. I don’t want to dread coming out here.”

Although she made a choice to narrow her focus, first-year Cathedral softball coach Craig Beesley is sure Rasco could aid the Lady Wave anywhere she stands.

“She is just a good player,” he said. “She is one of those players that come to practice every day looking to get better. You can depend on her to give it everything she’s got.”

Rasco — a softball player since youth — said she credits a large part of her willpower to her family. Her brother, Chris, played baseball under Beesley more than a decade ago, and her father, Chuck, serves as a volunteer assistant coach.

“They have always caught my pitches in the backyard, and they have always worked with me and given me advice,” Rasco said. “It means a lot to have someone who knows (about the game). My family is always out here watching me.”

Alongside family, Rasco thanks her teammates — who are family, too.

Cathedral’s other senior is centerfielder Caroline Kaiser. The two are cousins.

“We are really close and have been together a long time,” Rasco said. “It is special because we have always pushed each other along. I love being with my friends, and when we do well everyone has a good time.”

Beesley hopes the connection between the two upperclassmen remains strong.

“There’s nothing like a team sport. I hope this year is something both her and Caroline remember for the rest of their lives,” he said.

Rasco said since she doesn’t plan to play organized softball after high school, she is doing her best to soak in her last season.

Cathedral (1-2) will be back in action at 6:30 p.m. tonight as it travels to Centreville Academy.

“I really want to hit a home run. I’ve never done that,” Rasco said. “It’s my last chance.”