Sophia Berger '20 Recruiting Profile

    My name is Sophia Berger and I am currently a sophomore at Ridge High School located in Basking Ridge, New Jersey. During my freshman year, I was the starting pitcher for the varsity softball team and was nominated as all-area honorable mention. Softball has been a large contributor to the person I am and it has helped me learn the lessons that I practice every single day. Softball is not just a sport. To me, it is a way to express what I love while working with a team to accomplish something together. I have been on the field for 8 years and I have learned something new everytime I play. Whether my team wins or loses, I feel a sense of accomplishment after stepping off the field because I believe I tried my hardest. Softball gives me confidence, as well as a boost of self esteem that is a strong asset to my character in school and on the field. This sport has given me the positive characteristics that I show today and I am excited to continue to learn throughout my college experience. 

    During the game, I am constantly supporting my team. I believe that a successful softball team is based on support and help from your teammates. Being a pitcher means that you have to constantly be in the game and you have the opportunity to be a big contributor to the team. As a ball player and an academic student, one of my biggest strengths is my positive attitude. If a teammate made an error or the team is down, I am the one who encourages them to move past it and focus on the next play.  In addition to a positive attitude, a successful pitcher must also be hardworking and disciplined. On the mound, I push myself for every pitch to be better than the last. Off the field, I strive to exceed academic expectations and I challenge myself everyday to work as hard as I can. If I make an error when playing, my head is already thinking of ways where I can improve for the next play. Another strength I have is that I am very passionate. Academically, I am always engaged in the subject I am learning and I often find myself going beyond the expectations of an assignment. If I am taught something new, I put my whole heart into the task and try to push myself as much as I can. Practice is the most important time to be focused and the best time to give your team support because habits created in practice carry into the game. 

    For my upcoming years in college, I am looking for a school that is located on the east coast, whether it is north or south. I am open to Division I, II, and III but I am specifically interested in a small DI school. I am interested in majoring in elementary education or marine science. I am truly excited to take my softball and academics to the next chapter in my life alongside other students, athletes, and coaches of an outstanding university.