Season Interrupted: Briana Velazquez is taking her talents to Daytona Beach

Throughout the spring, The Times will interview high school seniors whose athletic careers were cut short by the coronavirus outbreak.

Name: Briana Velazquez

School: San Pedro

Sport: Softball, pitcher-shortstop.

Key stats: Hitting .700 (14-for-20) when 2020 season was halted

Fall plans: Will attend Bethune-Cookman University in Daytona Beach, Fla.

On the disappointing end to the season:
“I was on such a roll and my team was just getting to know each other. We just got a new coach again. I felt I was in a zone and ready to make a big impact.”

On how she keeps her skills sharp:
“I hit into a net every day. I pitch into a net. I take ground balls throwing against a wall.”

On the lessons she’s learned:
“Definitely to not take life for granted and play every game like it’s my last because my last game I didn’t think would be my last.”

The highlight of her high school career:
“My freshman year when we won [the] city [championship]. It showed the atmosphere of high school and how fun it is. I was in shock, happy and had butterflies. It was a surreal moment.”

Where she sees herself in 10 years:
“I see myself still going to school because I want to be a veterinarian and hopefully work in a vet clinic. I’ve always had a passion for animals. Every time I see a dog, I ask if I can pet it.”

On being a lifelong San Pedro resident and her community:
“Everywhere you go if you’re an athlete you’re recognized and people stop to ask how you’re doing. It’s really family. When you play, you want to play for your city.”

Video interviews of each athlete can be found at latimes.com/sports/highschool.