Graceyn Powell '22 Recruiting Profile

It started because of the cute socks; it has continued because of its ability to continually challenge me in every way both on and off the field.  The sport of fastpitch has been a constant teacher for me. As a result of my years on the field, I have learned about success. Success is not a specific time of day but rather an appropriate level of energy.  It is not a certain type of weather but rather an acceptance of the weather. It is not always laughter and smiles rather it is often sweaty and dusty. Most importantly, I have learned that success is not always “winning the game” rather it is “winning the lesson”.  I learned this lesson the hard way my very first semester of high school. My schedule was overloaded with AP and Honors courses, especially for a fall athlete who as a pitcher was needed as a “swing” player for both JV and Varsity. Having played tournament ball for so long, I thought I could persevere as I always do.  I learned a critical life lesson that semester, perhaps the most valuable lesson of my life. Success is not based on desire alone rather it is based on the ability to apply a healthy work ethic in an environment where mistakes and their valuable lessons are part of the process not the end result. I hold this lesson close to heart as I continue on my journey as a student and as an athlete both on the field and even as a golfer on the golf course, yet another place I have committed to learn about success.