Motichka inks with Dakota State

Former Polson High School softball standout Quinn Motichka opted not to go Gonzaga University on an academic scholarship, but instead will extend her softball career with Dakota State.

Motichka, who played in the Polson softball program since she was 8-years-old, said her desire to continue playing softball was the main reason behind her decision.

“I actually haven’t gotten to go down there yet, but I will be a few weeks later this summer,” Motichka said. “I’ve heard the town is about the same size as Polson, and it’s actually like Lake County. It is pretty similar to home in that sense, which would be kind of nice.”

Motichka, who said she was mostly recruited for her ability to hit, said she is ready to compete at the NAIA-sanctioned school.

“I was mostly recruited for my hitting, and I think that is something I can use in order to get on the field early on,” Motichka said. “Especially early on (when I am getting adjusted) to the next level.”

Lady Pirates manager Larry Smith said he felt Motichka is capable of carving out a role with the Dakota State early.

“She has been in the program for a long time, and she is a joy to have around, not just as a player but as a young lady,” Smith said. “She is not afraid. She is very open-minded and wants to be good at what she does.”

Smith remembers the significant improvement Motichka made between her freshman and sophomore season of playing.

“I think when she was a sophomore she was able to hit the ball further and harder, and I remember her telling me ‘by midseason I never thought I would be such a power hitter,’” Smith recalled. “She hit a lot of doubles to the gaps and progressed as she got a little bit older. Then she started putting the balls outside of the park, and when you are batting from the left side that has big benefits. You can lay down a bunt and do a little slapping every once in a while. Her execution (of the basics) was very good and she showed that in a state tournament. She laid down a beautiful bunt, was able to beat it out at first base, and was off and running after that point.”

Motichka’s goals are both academic and athletic, and she was the recipient of an academic scholarship.

“My biggest goal is to work towards getting a starting spot and once I acquire that through college, I’ll move onto bigger goals such as getting an all-conference nomination and stuff like that,” Motichka said. “I am also looking at a business management degree, and might even look to going into business law.”

Motichka credits coach Smith for her having the opportunity to continue her playing career.

“This wouldn’t have been possible without all my coaches, and coach Smith was a huge proponent to my success,” Motichka said. “It was a great feeling to be leaving such a great program in Polson. I am so fortunate to have amazing teammates, a big family and all of the parents and community to be able to experience this. This is something that you don’t get to experience very often.”