Nicole Rawlings '18 Recruiting Profile

My name is Nicole Rawlings and I am a left-handed pitcher from Hamilton, Ohio. I have always had the goal of going to college, but it is equally important for me to play softball in college. I do not want to list all the clichés about my love for the sport because all college softball players love it. I simply cannot see myself in college not playing softball. Even if I were injured and unable to compete, I would have to be involved in the game somehow.

I didn’t know I wanted to pitch until one of my early coaches told me I didn’t have a choice because I was left handed. I started throwing into a tire hung on the backstop and it was a slow process. The first time I threw a pitch, heard the smack in the glove, and saw the girl swing after I had already gotten the ball past her, I was hooked. Since then I have challenged myself physically and mentally to be the best I can. I studied the game trying to figure out each batter and what works and what doesn’t so I can get them out. I still have so much more to learn and plenty of room for growth in my skills set but I know it is a process and that it will come as I continue my career into college.

I plan on studying Biology with an emphasis on genetics, possibly forensics, or something in the medical field. I work hard in the classroom and balance my commitments. I am not perfect but I am a team player that commits completely. You want me on your team because I am a threat on the mound that confuses and confounds batters. I support my team mates while maintaining good sportsmanship. I respect my team mates and opponents and most importantly myself.