Despite the challenges that COVID has had on recruiting, a trio of Carolina Elite National 2022 grads have committed to the schools they’ve dreamed of playing for since they began entertaining the possibility of competing at the collegiate level.
Utility talent Gabi Wilson, catcher Taylor Waitley and lefty pitcher Kierston Deal have verballed to North Carolina State, East Carolina University and the University of South Carolina, respectively, and the talented trio were key contributors on the Dave Maddaluna’s Carolina Elite National 16U team that finished 5th last year in the USA Softball JO Cup.
Here’s a look at this outstanding trio and what makes them DI-caliber players…
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Gabi Wilson (North Carolina State commit)
Gabi says she can’t wait to join the Wolfpack program in the Fall of 2022.
“I am very excited to attend and play for North Carolina State University,” she said. “My decision to attend NC state was an easy one as I went to several camps there and immediately fell in love with the coaching staff and campus.”
Gabi explains she also took to the program’s willingness to swing for the fences.
“What I loved the most was their approach to the game,” the outfielder/ utility player explained. “I want to possess the confidence of (Wolfpack Head) Coach Patrick Swift’s home-run mindset. This philosophy resonated with me and has a big impact on my approach at the plate. Instead of just focusing on getting on base, I began to set my goals higher with the confidence that I am a home run threat every time I step in the box.”
In addition to being able to play in the ACC, the junior says she was impressed by the academic opportunities at NC State as well.
“I plan on studying Business Administration with a focus on entrepreneurship,” Gabi added. “I’m really looking forward to the exciting opportunities that lie ahead.”
Primarily a centerfielder, she has consistently batted around .400 the last two years and been a team leader in home runs and runs scored.
“Gabi has been one of the hardest workers I have ever coached,” says Coach Maddaluna. “She always pushes herself to do more outside of team practices and showcase events and is a tireless worker in the gym and on any ballfield she can work out on. Many teams we play look at Gabi and don’t expect the kind of power she generates—she doesn’t have a typical power hitter stature—but she makes them pay. Along with her power, Gabi is an exceptional athlete and aggressive base runner.”
*** Scroll down to read about the two other standout 2022’s who are committed to their dream programs!
