By Presley Harrison, Shield Editor
On December 18, 2024, NRCA senior Cora Harmsen signed a national letter of intent to play collegiate softball at Roanoke College in Salem, Virginia.
Harmsen, who has been on the varsity team for all four of her years in high school, started her journey in sports at a very young age. “I started in gymnastics, and then one of my family friends kind of pushed me to play [recreational] softball, and after that, I just fell in love with it, and I wanted to play more. So, I quit gymnastics to play softball [full time],” said Harmsen.
As in any sport, the ability of teammates to get along and work together is one of the most important aspects of softball. One of Harmsen’s top priorities when looking for a college program was finding a team where she fit, and she found that at Roanoke. “I really like the team dynamic. I think it reminds me a lot of my club team, and it'll be a really easy transition into college,” she said.
Reflecting on her time in high school, Harmsen said she experienced many amazing memories, big and small. “Winning the state [championship in 2024], I think, was probably one of my favorite memories… [and also] every time I travel somewhere with my team is always a good memory,” Harmsen said.
After a long journey of ups and downs in softball, Harmsen expressed gratitude for everyone who helped her improve her game and get to where she is today. Harmsen said, “I’d like to thank my parents, who pushed me all the time, and then all my coaches—Coach Chris Rivera, Coach Jay Robinson, and then Chad Lampman and Danny Colleran, my travel coaches.”