One-Handed Long Island Catcher Earns Softball Scholarship

LEVITTOWN, N.Y. (CBSNewYork) -- A one-handed catcher is taking Long Island softball by storm.

CBS2's Jennifer McLogan reported Island Trees High School softball catcher Kimberly Basile was born with just one hand.

"I don't even know, really fast I guess," Kimberly said about transferring the ball. "I don't ever remember if I even timed myself."

Kimberly, the team's star captain, has them in the softball playoffs on Long Island. She said her classmates, athletic siblings and parents taught her she is capable of anything.

"I don't see myself as a disabled person, I learned to do things for myself," she said. "I don't like to ask for help with things, I try to figure things out myself. I want to be independent."

"She sends the message 'have no fear, get out there, live your life, be a leader.' That is what she has provided for the students of Island Trees High School," Nicolas Grande, the school's principal, said.

As a right-handed hitter, Kim uses her left arm to guide the bottom of the bat during her swing to generate power.

The senior captain is a key hitter, batting .378, and was recently moved to the leadoff spot.

Kim has also not made an error all season.

"This year, my best memory was turning a double-play in the Syosset tournament. In college, I hope to keep up and stay at the same intensity," she said.

Kim has earned a softball scholarship to Farmingdale State and was just named All-County and is nominated for All-State honors.

Kim is hoping to catch for Farmingdale next year. One of her sisters catches for the New York Institute of Technology, while the other pitches for Seton Hall.

Kim also plays the trumpet and is on the varsity volleyball and bowling teams.