Tori Herrington twists the ball in her hand, brings it above her head and fires it down the lane to catcher Aubree Love.

Smack!

That’s a common sound that emits from the Northview junior’s pitching arm as she gets in gear for games this season.

Herrington, who has played softball since she was in the 8U league, has always been inside the circle on the field. When she’s not playing her coveted position, she’s not that far away at first base.

When asked what she likes most about pitching, Herrington said it’s the spinning of the ball and striking out batters.

In the Lady Chiefs’ 6-3 loss to Escambia, Fla., in eight innings, Herrington struck out eight batters.

During games, Herrington’s father, Scott, calls the pitches.

Scott gives the call to Love, who then signals to Herrington.

Herrington said her father has helped her game a lot.

“He’s always there for me, and helps me work on my pitches,” she said, adding that he helps with her hitting, too.

Love, a sophomore, said they’ve been playing together since the little league.

Love said she knows how to catch Herrington, and what she likes to throw.

In the warm up before playing Escambia, Herrington made Love’s glove “pop” like the ball had been thrown real hard.

When asked what pitch that was, Herrington said it was her “screw ball.”

However, Herrington said the change up is her favorite.

Herrington said she feels more confident in her play this year rather than last year.

“I just worked hard during the offseason,” she said.

Herrington is the daughter of Scott and Lisa Herrington of Molino, Fla.

Love is the daughter of Summer and Ron Love.