Bear Necessities Volume 25

The landscape of college athletics has changed drastically since my time competing. With the introduction of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL), it seems that amateur athletics is no longer what it once was. Playing at a Division 1 school for any sport has become more of a stepping stone to professional sports rather than the final goal. That's why it's truly remarkable when our athletes make the jump to a Division 1 team, and even more impressive when they're starting in their freshman season. For the past four seasons, Gigi Ortega '24 has made her mark on the Mercy Softball Program, earning nearly every accolade one could amass at the high school level. It's been amazing to watch her grow as a player and leader in our community. This season, you can find Gigi starting at 3rd base for San Jose State, making her debut in Division 1 softball. I can't wait to catch a game and follow along with her success on the diamond at the next level.

"Hey Mercy! Right now, I'm currently in the middle of preseason here at San José State playing D1 softball. Competing with SJSU so far has been such a fun experience between traveling for different tournaments, facing tough competition and playing at the highest level. I've felt myself grow so much already as I'm being pushed to improve everyday at weights, practice, and even games. Being able to step on the field and hear my name being called in the lineup has been such a rewarding experience after all the years of hard work, dedication, and sacrifices that my family and I have made. I'm extremely grateful for my time playing at Mercy and in travel ball as it helped shaped me into the athlete I am today. GO BEARS!!! "