Possessing a maturity that belies her being only a sophomore, Erin Tresselt has made an impression with her play on the diamond and has had an impact off the field, too.

That is why the Elkins High School alum was chosen the Female Student-Athlete of the Month for April.

"When I went for my weekly check-in with my counselor Tina (Dr. Kien of the Student Services Office), she had this big smile on her face and she told me that she had a secret to tell me," Tresselt explained. "So I asked her what it was and she told me that I had been chosen as the Female Student-Athlete of the Month."

The Houston native was taken aback by the news.

"I was extremely surprised," she said. "Each month, I look at the student-athletes of the month and I think how much of an honor it would be to be one. Now to be selected, well, I feel like my hard work in the classroom and on the softball field has paid off.

"This means a great deal to me. I know what a huge honor it is because there are many well-rounded student-athletes here. I have put a tremendous amount of time into practicing in order to excel on the softball field and I also have put a tremendous amount of time and effort in order to perform well in the classroom.

"It is just as rewarding to me to succeed in the classroom as it is on the field because to me they go hand-in-hand. I am proud to receive this award because it shows the commitment I have put into being a student and an athlete. I also always try to present myself well and be a role model to young aspiring student-athletes, showing them how important it is to be involved in the community."

Kien is not the least bit surprised at this honor for Tresselt, who was recognized as a First Team Scholastic All-America by the National Fastpitch Coaches Association (NFCA).

"Erin is one of the most dedicated and hardworking student-athletes that we have in our program," said Kien of the young woman who was the recipient of the 2007 Judy Haralson Endowed Scholarship.

"Erin sets very high academic goals (business, pre-med) and does what is necessary to achieve them. She is Exceptional, Responsible, Intense and Nice -- ERIN -- that's her."

In 2007, the right-handed pitcher ranked No. 9 nationally in ERA in Division I.

Asked what disciplines help her succeed in the classroom and on the field, Tresselt said, "The major one is mental focus. I also have developed a refuse-to-lose attitude. I know that I can accomplish great things with a little sweat and hard work."

She already has.