Athlete of the week is Hauppauge's Ehlinger

The feat

Had 22 strikeouts against Eastport-South Manor in 10 innings April 5. Runners were in scoring position only twice and she struck out the side in the second, third, fourth and fifth innings. Ehlinger gave up three hits and had one intentional walk. On April 14, she also pitched a 10-inning complete game against Shoreham-Wading River and had 20 strikeouts.

The quote

"I did not even know I had 22 strikeouts! I was just playing the game and wanting to win," Ehlinger said. "I found out when a Newsday reporter came up to me after the game."

Fundamentals

Ehlinger is a triplet and has played softball since she was in fourth grade, beginning on the HYO team. She believes that it is important to understand every skill in the game and says that every person on the field makes a difference. She finds her strength in her screwball and makes a cross in the dirt with her foot before every pitch.

What's next

Ehlinger is interested in C.W. Post for softball but since she is just a junior, she remains focused on this season. She looks to lead her team to victory at Sayville at 4 p.m. Monday in their first matchup since losing to the Golden Flashes in the county final last year.

The lightning round

Career highlight? Making varsity in ninth grade and being All-County since then.

Favorite TV show? "One Tree Hill."

Favorite video game? Call of Duty.

Favorite movie? "Remember the Titans."

What's on your iPod? "A mix of different music."

Favorite subject? English.

Favorite food? Chicken.

Favorite holiday? Christmas.

Favorite pro athlete? Jennie Finch.

Where do you like to vacation? Virginia Beach.

Dream car? Jeep Wrangler.

Dream job? Psychologist.