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Northbrook Girls Softball Association

Alumni



Interviews with Former Spartan Travel Players

Chloe De Leon
Wisconsin Lutheran College

  What was your favorite memory of your time playing with NGSA?

My favorite memory playing for NGSA was when my 12U Green team went up to Wisconsin Dells for the weekend. I remember how one day, I hit 3 HR’s in one game and 4 overall throughout the whole tournament!

What is your favorite softball drill?

My favorite softball drill is probably around the horn or 21 outs. I feel as though both drills mentally and physically challenge the player to make sure that they are able to properly execute the play, but also know how to pick themselves up and try again when they make a mistake. 

Who inspires or inspired you to play softball?

Ever since I was little, a person I always looked up to was Jennie Finch. Although I’m not a pitcher, I still greatly admired all the accomplishments she had leading up to her pro softball career. Additionally, I love that she is an advocate for mental health in females and female athletes through many organizations!

 

   

When you aren’t playing softball, what is your favorite thing to do?

When I’m not playing softball, I love hanging with my family, friends, or my dog! Some things I value are the people and relationships I build with others throughout my life; I think it is extremely important to spend quality time with the people who make me who I am today!

After games, what Northbrook restaurant is the one you’ll most likely eat at?

Hands down The Landmark in Downtown Northbrook was always the go to for my team. I remember how after games or tournaments, my team and my teammate’s families would go grab a bite here all the time!

The funniest thing to happen to me on a softball field is ….

When I was trying to slide into a base but slid too early and ended up having to butt-scooch about a foot or two to the base. Don’t worry though - I was still safe somehow!

What is one piece of advice you’d give to a young softball player?

If I could give any piece of advice to a young softball player, it would be to take time to focus on the mental aspect of the game. While our bodies are what physically executes the play, I feel as though no one ever really notices how mental the game of softball is. With every error comes not only a learning opportunity, but a test to see who can recover from their mistake the fastest and make the next play. Just know, it is more than okay to make a mistake as long as you’re able to face the adversity and adjust to it. Keep your headup and continue playing the game that you love so much!

            
                    
   


Maddie Molay 
Macalaster College

             
What was your favorite memory of your time playing with NGSA?

I loved getting to play softball in the Wisconsin Dells. This was a great way to form team culture and promote team bonding. In addition, the whole experience was also enjoyable because it was my first out-of-town tournament which set the stage for the rest. 

What is your favorite softball drill?

Growing up, I have always loved doing around the world (a pitching drill). I find this drill super beneficial because it helps with spots and even pitching under pressure. I find this a drill that I use at all times, still to this day.  

Who inspires or inspired you to play softball?

Initially, my dad inspired me to play. He used to play in an adult league and I used to go and want to be just like him. 

When you aren’t playing softball, what is your favorite thing to do?


When I am not playing softball, I love to work out, hang out with my friends and family, and travel. 

After games, what Northbrook restaurant is the one you’ll most likely eat at?

You can never go wrong with Chipotle, however, Landmark is always fun with a team! 

The funniest thing to happen to me on a softball field is ...

I was sliding into third-base and slid three feet early and needed to crawl to the base. 

What is one piece of advice you’d give to a young softball player?


Never give up if you are frustrated. You are going to have rough games and even mental blocks, however, they will make you stronger and a better player. 

 



Grace Spencer
Ball State



What was your favorite memory of your time playing with NGSA?


My favorite memory from playing with NGSA would have to be the Fourth of July parades we would walk in. It was always so much fun to walk with my teammates and represent NGSA.

What is your favorite softball drill?

My favorite softball drill is front toss. I love getting the immediate feedback.

Who inspires or inspired you to play softball?

From a young age my dad always inspired me to be a strong, hardworking player and person.

When you aren’t playing softball, what is your favorite thing to do?

My favorite thing would be spending time with my friends or watching TV.

After games, what Northbrook restaurant is the one you’ll most likely eat at?

Graeter’s! That’s my favorite ice cream place.

The funniest thing to happen to me on a softball field is ….
      



During high school season when Highland Park plays GBN and I get to see my old NGSA teammates. We always poke fun at each other, and I look forward to that game every season.

What is one piece of advice you’d give to a young softball player?

One piece of advice I would give a young softball player is to always set goals for yourself. Celebrate the wins no matter how big or small. 


Contact Information

We love to hear from former NGSA players.  Please email Travel Director!

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Northbrook Girls Softball Association

Northbrook Girls Softball Association, PO Box 592
Northbrook, Illinois 60065

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