The main reason I decided to play in the FGCL this summer was to have the ability to really zone in on my strengths and weaknesses in a game setting. It also would allow me to get reps in that were lost due to both my injuries and COVID.

What expectations did you have going in?

I expected something more laid back and more like travel ball. However, it was a lot more competitive (which I loved) and everyone was there to get better. 

What was it like getting to know new teammates?

Getting to know everyone was pretty normal. I think it was much easier for my team to bond than the rest of the league because of the housing situation. The other teams in the league stayed in a hotel while our team stayed in a house where we made dinner together and all hung out outside of practice and games. It was also nice getting to know different girls from different teams and divisions and getting to learn what they have learned in college, and to share our experiences with one another. 

What can you say about your overall experience?  

I can say that this is one of the best experiences I have had in my entire softball career. Not only was I able to grow as a player, but also as a teammate and person. This experience allowed me to be open and optimistic to outside sources of coaching and player insight. Everyone worked to get better and loved to compete. 

What was the best part?  What memories do you think stand out the most?

The best part of this experience were the bonds that were made with our team and coaches. Everyone worked together every single day to get better and work on our weaknesses together. Some memories that stood out were going to Waffle House after games with the whole team as well as having team beach days on our off days. 

What from the experience do you think you can bring back with you to Stetson this year?  

The most important thing I learned during this experience was to always be confident in yourself, and there are always things you can improve on as a player. Also, the word "dominate" has been stuck in my head all summer, and that just means to take control of the intensity of the game which also goes back to being confident in your game and showing you can play.  Lastly, another thing I took away from this summer that I will take back to Stetson is "Don't be afraid to make a great play. Don't be afraid to get the game-winning hit. Great players thrive in pressure situations." I think that Stetson softball is 100% capable of being that team that dominates and being a great team that includes all great players.
 

About Stetson University Athletics: Stetson University's Athletics Program has a vision of developing a culture of champions athletically, academically and within the community. This vision is accomplished through a mission of recruiting and developing student-athletes, coaches and staff, creating a culture of champions, within and outside of competition. The department operates with five core values: Championship Culture, Integrity, Excellence, Pride/Tradition and Leadership. To learn more about the Vision, Mission and Core Values for Stetson Athletics, visit GoHatters.com and click on Mission Statement under the Inside Athletics tab.