Recruiting Commit: Jiselle “JiJi” Castano’s Official Visit to Army West Point Was Not Your Typical Campus Trip!

Over the last few months, we’ve seen hundreds of talented juniors take their official visits to universities and colleges across the nation, but few get to do what Jiselle “JiJi” Castano did on her weekend trip this month to Army West Point: shoot a machine gun.

Yes, the talented 2021 infielder from Manchester, Pennsylvania got a little taste of the Army cadet life when she visited the United States Military Academy (USMA) based in West Point, New York.

We asked her today, “What exactly do you do on a recruiting trip to Army?”

JiJi responded: “I shadowed a cadet for two days, went to their classes and stayed in the barracks with a cadet.  I also had lunch in the mess hall which was pretty interesting.  I got to watch lunch formation and see the uniqueness of the Academy.”

And shoot a machine gun (in case you missed that part).

It’s a life that she will soon be experiencing as the five-tool player will compete for new Army head coach Cheryl Milligan, who took over the program last June with JiJi being one of the coach’s newest commits.

The five-tool talent, who plays centerfield for Northeaster High School (Manchester, Pennsylvania), is skilled enough to be the starting third baseman for Missy Cutchall’s Tri-State Thunder Gold club program out of Maryland.

But that’s not all.

“JiJi hits in the top of our lineup,” the coach begins. “She is one of my top hitters and a very well-rounded player.  JiJi also catches and plays shortstop and outfield.  Not only that, she is a super-versatile athlete who plays tennis and runs track and carries a 4.4 GPA. JiJi also used to travel the world competing in karate competitions.”

Well-balanced in all facets of life, the junior is in several school and other extra-curricular organizations including the Diversity Club, HOSA, Debate Club, Math Honor Society, Model UN and Varsity Club. JiJi is the Treasurer of her class and a Co-Chair for Student Forum. And if that’s not enough to keep her busy, she is also in the chorus and orchestra, where she plays the cello.

On the athletic side, the multi-talented athlete was 1^st Team All-County and All-District for softball and 2^nd Team All-County her freshman and sophomore campaigns for tennis, making the All-Star team as a junior. JiJi even placed in Districts for track and field last spring in the shot and discus.

Going to West Point has been a dream of hers for a long time and she will continue the family tradition of serving in behalf of her country.

“The reasons for why I want to attend Army West Point are because my father used to be in the military and I want to become an officer,” she explains, “while at the same time playing high-level softball. I feel like I could help contribute to the team and represent the Academy well.”

Adds Coach Cutchall, “JiJi is very humble and wouldn’t expect the recognition (of being spotlighted for her vast accomplishments), but she deserves it. She may be the most well-rounded kid I have met!”

— Brentt Eads, Extra Inning Softball