An athlete’s freshman year can be a learning experience, but Grace Grabowy has taken full advantage of her opportunities to start the 2026 season. Grabowy’s willingness to learn and grow has helped shape her into a better ballplayer. The Royal Purple had the opportunity to talk with Grabowy about the start of her collegiate career.
Q: What’s been the biggest adjustment from high school to college softball?
A: The biggest adjustment for me is not being home. Being away, I understand I am fully responsible for everything I do and how I spend my time. I’m very mindful of my school work and softball so I can excel in both.
Q: What do you think has helped you earn a starting spot as a freshman?
A: I believe the biggest factor that helped me earn my role as a starter is that my coaches have faith in me. They needed a role to be filled, and I am glad they believed I could fill it.
Q: What have upperclassmen or your coaches taught you that’s stuck with you?
A: The coaches have stressed the importance of communication on the field, so I have been working on that. They are also great at communicating adjustments I need to make to improve at the plate and on the field. I have been blessed with great upperclassmen who are very encouraging. They’re great at congratulating each other when we do well and are there to pick each other up when we don’t do as well. Everyone just carries positive energy with them which is great to be around. All of our coaches and upperclassmen also stress the importance of getting it done in the classroom. Succeeding in the classroom will help you succeed in the field.
Q: What part of your game are you still working to develop?
A: I am constantly learning new things about this game. There is still so much I don’t know. Whether it be mechanics, analyzing situations, or using strategies to anticipate things. I believe I should always be working to improve and grow myself as a player, teammate and person.
Q: How have your teammates helped you adjust to college life and softball?
A: My teammates are beyond supportive and helpful in getting adjusted to college life and softball. They have truly taken us freshmen under their wings and encouraged us to have a nice balance. They are there to talk softball, help with schoolwork and just be good friends. I got really lucky meeting them, and I know these friendships will last beyond college.
Q: What goals did you set coming into your freshman season?
A: My goals coming in were to work hard every day and hopefully get an opportunity to serve a role on this team. I am grateful and blessed that my coaches believe in me and to have a role on this team. My goal in every practice is to work hard and improve my game. My goal every game is to win and contribute in any way I can to help my team achieve that. My ultimate goal is to have a winning season and make a run for the championship.
Q: What motivates you to keep working every day?
A: I love this game and I love competing. I want this team to be successful and I know that with hard work and dedication, we all contribute to the success of our team. My teammates are great motivators and their drive for the sport makes me more motivated because we all have the same goal of having a successful season.
Q: What does starting every game as a freshman mean to you personally?
A: I am truly honored and blessed that the coaches believe in me. We all work extremely hard. I am grateful my hard work is paying off and that I have the privilege to play with such talented teammates, great coaches and represent Whitewater softball.
Grabowy and the Warhawks are back in action on Wednesday, April 1, when they travel to the University of Chicago for a doubleheader.
