Madeline Grueter '21 Recruiting Profile

From a very young age I have dreamed about playing softball in college. My parents were both college athletes and they both have pushed me to be the best athlete and person I can be. My passion for softball only grows the older I get and there is no doubt that it is something I want to do in the future. I want to find a college that fits me best both athletically and academically and allows me to be the best student-athlete as possible.

I am willing to sacrifice for my teammates and put my body on the line if that is what is best for the team. I also like to challenge myself both physically and mentally. I maintain a 3.9 GPA in the classroom while also giving 100 percent to softball and extracurriculars. I am also very coachable--I pick up new things quickly and work really hard to succeed at them. I can bring positivity and a strong leadership role to a team as well. My coaches have always commented on my leadership abilities as well as my positive attitude which encourages my teammates.

Off the field I am active with service in my community and in my school. I am a member of a youth board that actively fundraises for money to buy shoes and socks for elementary students in the the area who qualify for free or reduced lunch. Also, I volunteer with a group called Kindness Acts who volunteers and has events for homeless children from the local Gospel Mission. We play with the children and really make them feel loved because not all of them get that from their families. I get so much joy and fulfillment from volunteering and it is something I plan to do in the future. One of the reasons I want to major in social work is so I can help kids like the ones where I volunteer. I have played basketball since third grade for school teams which has helped me to become more well-rounded as a softball player. In school I have been in programs that allow me to be a leader and mentor for younger kids which strengthens my leadership skills. I take joy in helping younger girls in my community who want to pursue softball in the future and leading them in the right direction. Overall, my leadership experience, dedication to athletics, academics, and my community, and my ability to connect with others makes me a unique player who would be a great asset to a team.

Thank you for taking time to read my personal statement!