I Committed Profile: Ashley Hernandez on Why Boise State… “They Love That I Have a Chip on My Shoulder!”

In our ongoing “I Committed” series, we today spotlight a 2024 Extra Elite 100 outfielder who loved the “family atmosphere” she saw and felt from her future college head coach, the staff and players.

Here’s what made Ashley Hernandez a huge pickup for the Boise State Broncos as we wrote about her in her player bio:

Ashley is well known for her speed and  brings tremendous range in the outfield. Her coaches have often described her jaw-dropping plays in the outfield as “defensive home runs. Ashley is softball savvy and has a high IQ for the game and, offensively, she keeps the defensive on its toes with the skills to drop a bunt or hit for power in the gap.

Ashley batted over .400 for California High and made the All-Regional team.

Looking at her, most people would not know that she has been diagnosed with Sjogren’s syndrome, an auto-immune disorder that can include asthma and arthritis. “Ashley has overcome a lot and keeps battling on the field,” says Coach Ted Holcomb.

“This was the pickup we were looking for as she is a slapper that plays our scrappy style of softball and is one of the best leadoff hitters I have ever coached.”

… and here’s what the talented junior had to say about why she’s headed to BSU…

*****

Player Name: ASHLEY HERNANDEZ

Position(s): Centerfield/Outfield

Grad Year: 2024

Club Team: Wildcats Holcomb/Knight/Kingery 16U

Club Coach: Ted Holcomb

Committed to: Boise State University

Why the Broncos?

I am so happy to say that I verbally committed to play at Boise State University!

(Boise State Head) Coach (Justin) Shults has made me feel like I have been part of the Bronco family since the first text and phone call on September 1st.

He made me feel like my style of game is going to make a big impact with the Boise program. He talked about how my speed and my ability to get on base would play an important role in the Boise State game. He loved that I have a “chip on my shoulder” and that I always want to prove that I belong.

Coach Shults had a real interest in me–to what I like to do outside of softball and what makes me tick–so that I felt an immediate bond. From the moment I walked on campus I felt like I belonged. Everyone was so friendly and welcomed me and my parents.

This is why I choose Boise State over the other schools I was talking to: they feel like family. I am so stoked to be playing at a D1 softball program at Boise State University. Bleed Blue and…

Go Broncos!