When Dowagiac senior Amanda Craft steps on the softball field she is usually the smallest player on either team.

But don’t let size fool you.

The four-year starter plays big for the Chieftains every day, whether it be a game or at practice.

Dowagiac coach Mike Behnke has been more than happy to pencil her name into the scorecards.

“For four years it has been No. 4 at the No. 4 position,” he said. “Last Thursday I went to her and asked if she would mind me getting a younger girl in for an inning. She said no problem, but it just hit me that I have never sat before.

“Good players, they don’t, and when they do they realize just how lucky they are.”

Although it felt funny watching from the dugout, Craft didn’t mind taking a seat.

“It was alright. I’m a team player so I understand you have to get the younger players experience,” she said. “But it was strange.”

Being the smallest player on the field doesn’t bother her either.

“I like to speak with my bat and glove,” Craft said. “I like to show people that size doesn’t matter as long as you give it everything that you have.”

She feels that she brings a positive attitude and sets a good example for the younger players and takes pride in being a good defensive player.

Behnke agrees.

“She brings a good attitude and she will do anything for the team,” he said. “If I asked her to catch, she would catch. She’s a great senior leader that everybody likes and they know if she tells them to do something they better do it. They respect her and that’s something that every team needs.”

Craft has helped lead the Chieftains to a 6-1 record heading into Wednesday’s doubleheader against Vicksburg.