Westmoore’s Josie Tofpi – Character Counts Presented by Eskridge Honda

By Kelsey Baucom

According to Josie Tofpi, she was born into a family that played either softball or baseball. Because of this, she has been playing softball since she was three years old. She now plays slowpitch and fastpitch for Westmoore High School as well as fastpitch for Gametime Gold 18U outside of school.

As a senior this year, Tofpi has been enjoying her last season as a Lady Jaguar. She is hoping to end her high school softball career on a high note.

“So far this season has been super fun! I was out a couple of games because I had surgery, but now that I’m back, I’m really looking forward to doing something that we haven’t done the four years I’ve been here, and that is to win state.”

Through the years, Tofpi has been an asset and a leader on the team, which has not gone unnoticed by Westmoore slowpitch coach Steve Schwarz.

“Her character is undeniable! She is our leader and helps everyone out on the team,” said Schwarz. “When she was out for a week because of surgery you could tell how much we missed her. We went 0-3. We got her back and have run rules four out of the last five teams. She is definitely a great leader.”

Tofpi embraces a leadership role on the field because she is always working to achieve unity and maintain a bond within her team. Knowing that her teammates look up to her motivates her even more. One aspect of this is exemplifying character on and off the field.

“I feel like it’s very important to have good sportsmanship because that’s how you gain respect from other teams, coaches, and even your own teammates. It also makes the game more enjoyable,” she said.

Another source of motivation for Tofpi comes from people that have been influences in her own life. She takes the encouragement that is given to her and pours it out for others. One example of a person Tofpi has acknowledged is Sydnee Ramsey.

“Sydnee Ramsey is someone that I’ve looked up to since freshman year. Anytime I got down on myself, she would always pick me up. That inspired me to do the same for those around me – inside and outside of softball.”

After high school Tofpi will be attending Missouri Southern State to play softball and study psychology.