Hannah Gartrell '20 Recruiting Profile

Being a varsity, freshman starter on a successful high school team, which exceeded all expectations with a second place finish in both a highly-competitive high school division and district level of play before moving on to states, was a very exciting life moment for me that only deepened my love for the sport of softball!

Although my most recent high school season was an exciting experience, my determination, passion and love for the game began when I was four years old. I have grown up watching and loving sports, especially softball. I joined a travel fastpitch tournament team when I was nine, and I haven’t stopped playing since. I am most comfortable and confident on the field. Throughout the years, my level of play has evolved. I am continually making skill improvements and working towards higher-level goals in becoming a better player.

Unfortunately, I have hit some obstacles along the way that have impacted me both on and off the field with a diagnosis of depression, anorexia and OCD when I was thirteen. Through my two year struggle towards recovery, I have learned that these moments have definitely influenced me and have helped shape the person I’ve become, but they NO longer define who I am. I now strive to be an inspiration for others dealing with these same struggles...to show them that with the help of professionals and with the love/support of family, they, too, can overcome any obstacle. Furthermore, these moments also helped me learn that softball is a huge part of my life that I don’t want to ever give up!

My goal for college is to find a softball program that not only fosters my determination, passion and love for the game, but one that allows me to earn a degree in a field of study related to criminal justice and/or forensic science. As of right now in high school, I am striving to graduate in the top ten percent of my class with a GPA of 3.9 or higher. I plan to continue taking rigorous courses including honors-level and AP classes. I am also striving for induction into the National Honors Society during my junior year.

Overall, I would describe myself as a very determined, goal-oriented and encouraging team player who wants to continue to learn and grow with softball. While I have some experience playing all positions (and can do so as a college player), my passion on the field is playing the corners.