By Amanda Jacobs
Sports Editor

Jennifer Gulley

Jennifer Gulley is an exercise studies and sports management major from Lexington, Ohio, and plays first base. Gulley knew MVNU was the school for her after her first visit.

“The atmosphere was nothing like any other school I visited,” Gulley said.

“Coach Howald was another reason I came here. Coach is so personable. She cares more about you as a person than as a player. Yes, we are here to play softball, but most of all we are here to get a degree, and if it was not for Coach, I would not be in the position I am.”

Although Gulley has many memories of different games she has played over the years, a few stand out in her mind.

“The best game was on March 10 of this year when we came together as a team and made a great comeback against (Div. II) Salem International and won 8-7 in 10 innings,” Gulley said. “I was so proud of my teammates to not give up and pull out the win.”

She is thankful for the support she has received over the years.

“I would like to thank my coach for pushing me to do my best at all aspects of life,” Gulley said. “Also I would like to thank my roommate Nichole and my apartment mate Katie for coming to all the games and supporting me on and off the field.”

MacKenzie Shaw

MacKenzie Shaw is an early childhood education major from Mount Vernon, Ohio, and plays left field. Shaw had some help in choosing to come to MVNU.

“My mom begged me to come on a visit, and I decided to appease her,” Shaw said. “I fell in love with the school immediately. Needless to say, mothers know best!”

Shaw has also enjoyed the camaraderie the softball team offers.

“I have loved getting to know the girls on my team,” Shaw said. “It hasn’t been a lot about winning and losing, but more about the relationships I have built. I have met my best friends here at MVNU. I have become a better person and much stronger in my faith.”

Of the many games she has played, Shaw also has a favorite.

“It was awesome getting to play the number two team in the nation,” Shaw said of the team’s meeting with Mount Mercy, Iowa.

She has also made a strong impression on her teammates.

“MacKenzie Shaw was the first teammate I was introduced to, and I remember it like yesterday,” said junior Kelsey Berryman. “She has always been a leader on the field, even as a little sophomore. Kenz cares about each one of her teammates and has a big heart for welcoming people into the ‘cougie family.’ She has not only been a leader on the field, but a person I could look up to off the softball field as well. She will be greatly missed next year, but I thank her for all that she has done for me and our team.”

Meagan Stott

Meagan Stott is a psychology and sociology major from Geneva, Ohio, and plays third base and pitcher. The atmosphere was also a deciding factor in Stott’s decision to play at MVNU.

“It is a place where I am able to grow in my relationship with Christ,” Stott said.

“The atmosphere on campus was very inviting, and the people were very welcoming. Since coming to MVNU I have made friends that I will never forget!”

Stott has had many positive experiences at MVNU.

“I enjoyed being an SLA my sophomore year and getting to meet a bunch of really cool people,” Stott said.

“My future plans include going to work a church camp, and possibly going to graduate school to get my master’s degree in counseling,” Stott said.