Jessica Bernock '19 Recruiting Profile

Hi! My name is Jess Bernock and I am looking to further my career in softball!  I started playing softball for our local Rockford (MI) Little League when I was in 1st grade.  Before and after that, I tried gymnastics, dance, soccer, volleyball and crew.  However, nothing ever stuck quite like softball, because I absolutely love the game!  Becoming a full-time catcher in the 3rd grade got me even more attached to softball knowing that I would be involved in every play.  It was hard for me to accept being the leader of the field at first because I had never experienced anything like that before, but I was open to it and it gave me somewhere to focus myself and have a purpose.  The position truly made me learn, understand, respect and love the game of softball even more.  The position has also helped me to be able to play any position (except pitching) since I'm constantly involved in the game and know when, where, how, and why plays need to be made.

I was blessed to attend the NSA World Series with my travel team in 2016 (Grand Rapids Blaze).  I also take pride in our Rockford Little League All-Star Junior State Championships 2nd place ranking in the state of Michigan, playing with ladies that I love and have grown with over almost 11 years!  My coaches have always been there for me whether it be on or off the field and I am extremely lucky to have had such positive and influential adults in my life.

I really hadn't thought of playing college softball until my Freshman year of high school.  However, this is how I've lived my life since I was seven years old, and if I have the opportunity to continue something that makes me my happiest self, I would love to.  Dedication, discipline and commitment are just a few qualities I see within myself that I can credit to softball (as well as great parents) for giving me.  I understand the lifestyle that a student-athlete must have to maintain good grades and a healthy life.  I have goals of maintaining my academic excellence during high school and getting involved in more events during the future to help out the community.  Getting a good education in my field of interest (Health Careers such as Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy or Sports Medicine) while helping others on and off the diamond would be an absolute dream of mine.

Thank you for taking the time to learn a bit more about me!  I hope to hear from you soon!