On May 16 against Sunapee, sophomore pitcher Lily Cornell broke Franklin High’s career softball strikeouts record of 647 previously held by Amanda Barton.

Going into the season, Cornell had 521 Ks and has averaged 12.6 strikeouts per game this season. Last year, Cornell reached her 500th strikeout mark during the “Strike Out Cancer” game that was dedicated to her mom on May 16, 2024. Her mom passed away shortly after the event, and this year Cornell broke the record on the same date.

Cornell’s dedication to her sport and perseverance to keep pitching have energized and inspired her team, and the record-breaking day was a special one on and off the diamond.

Q: What other sports have you played, and what’s your favorite?

A: I play volleyball, basketball and softball year-round. I’d say volleyball is my favorite because it’s more easy-going and gives me a nice break from the intensity of softball and basketball. But softball is a very close tie; I love everything about the game.

Q: Who are some of your mentors, and how have they helped you?

A: I’ve been lucky to have a lot of great mentors: my family, my high school coach, Maddie T., and especially my GSE travel team coach, Mike Boisvert. He’s coached me for about 10 years now and has been a huge reason I’ve grown into the player I am. He pushes me to be the best version of myself both on and off the field. I wouldn’t be where I am without his knowledge, dedication and support.

Q: What’s your favorite memory of playing sports?

A: My favorite memory isn’t one specific game: It’s always been looking up into the stands and seeing my mom cheering me on. No matter what, she was there. Those moments mean everything to me, especially now.

Q: How do you unwind after a game or playing sports?

A: After a game, I usually start by showering and icing. Then I’ll hang out with friends or family.

Q: What’s your favorite subject in school and why?

A: Science. It’s the class I find most interesting, and I enjoy learning how things work in the world around me.

Q: How did you feel going into the game, knowing you were close to the school record for strikeouts?

A: Honestly, I didn’t even know I was going to pitch that game, so in all I wasn’t expecting it. I went into the game just like any other, ready to compete. When I went in to pitch and actually broke the record, I froze. I looked over at my family, not really believing it had happened. Now every strikeout I get is breaking my own record, which is kind of crazy to think about.

Q: When you started playing varsity softball, did you ever envision yourself breaking it?

A: When I first started playing for the high school varsity team, I was halfway through my seventh grade softball season, so I had no idea what was ahead. I was nervous and unsure if I could keep up with the older girls. But by freshman year, I was a captain and started to see what was possible for me on the field. That’s when I knew I could manage playing with the older girls and start reaching some major career goals.

Q: What has motivated you to work on your pitching and get better at softball?

A: It’s been a tough year, and for a while, I didn’t have much motivation at all. But recently, something clicked and I’ve been feeling more like myself again, excited to practice and push myself. I’m not sure exactly what changed, but I’m glad it did.

Q: How much has your catcher, Bella Laflamme, helped you reach this milestone this year?

A: Bella has been a huge part of our team’s success. She brings energy and keeps us going, even when games get tough. I trust her behind the plate. No matter what pitch I throw, I know she’ll be there to catch it. She’s a crucial part of why I’ve been able to do what I’ve done this season.

Q: You’re still a sophomore, so what are some of your goals as you look ahead?

A: My next big goal is to break the New Hampshire state record for career strikeouts. I’m not too far away, so I’m hoping to reach that early next season. After that, who knows? I just want to keep getting better.