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Heading into her first softball season at Cicero-North Syracuse High School, Eva Farone was supposed to be a pitcher. But her freshman softball season was wiped away due to the COVID-19 pandemic. When she returned to the field for her sophomore year, it came with a new surprise.

Farone became the North Stars’ first baseman, despite never having played it before. Farone’s versatility and willingness to adapt became a defining trait throughout her high school career.

“Her ability to switch to a new position and excel at the varsity level right away was impressive,” CNS head coach Morgan Nandin said of Farone. “It showed how talented and coachable she is.”

Farone’s switch from the circle to the diamond propelled a dominant high school career, where she accumulated a .373 batting average from 2022-24. As a senior, she earned CNS Player of the Year honors. Her stardom culminated in her commitment to play at Saint Vincent College, where she is in her freshman year.

To get to where she is now, Farone credits much of her development to Nandin. Before becoming CNS’ head coach, Nandin was a cornerstone on its 2006 state championship team and became a four-year starter at Syracuse. Nandin became the first player in Orange history to start every game of her career.

When Nandin first started working with Farone, she was impressed by her work ethic and potential. Nandin recalls how excited she was after seeing Farone’s first batting practice, recognizing that she had the drive and skills to make a major impact.

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As Farone continued to develop, her confidence grew. By her junior year, she batted .414 with 17 RBIs. Still, doubts about whether she was good enough to play in college lingered. Nandin’s guidance helped Farone overcome them, pushing her to believe in her abilities and rise to the challenge.

“Coach Nandin was always there to remind me that I belonged, that I was good enough,” Farone said. “She’s been more than just a coach; she’s been a mentor.”

Ahead of her senior year, Farone again made a position change. This time, she moved to shortstop, becoming the captain of the infield. It was the same position Nandin played.

“Coach Nandin has had the biggest impact on my development, especially as a shortstop,” Farone said. “I’ve always tried to model my game defensively after hers.”

Farone cemented her place as one of the best players in CNS’ history as a senior. Nandin credits her star shortstop with never missing offseason workouts, growing as an example for the rest of the group. Her dedication inspired the team, leading the North Stars to the playoffs.

“Her hard work both in practice and on her own time, made her a standout,” Andrew Geradi, Farone’s club team coach, said. “She never shied away from putting in the effort, and that’s what truly set her apart.”

One of Farone’s proudest moments came in the sectional semifinal against Baldwinsville when she made the final out to secure the win, a memory she describes as “irreplaceable.” The North Stars eventually fell in the regional final. But Farone’s legacy was undeniable, as she finished the year with a .333 batting average.

Farone’s next chapter takes her to Saint Vincent, where she will look to earn a role on its roster. Playing at the next level has been a lifelong goal for Farone, and her time at Cicero-North, under Nandin’s guidance, helped her make that dream a reality.

“I’ve always wanted to play in college, so to finally make it happen is amazing,” Farone said.

Published on October 1, 2024 at 11:47 pm

mtfehr@syr.edu