Discovering a gem on the diamond
CHERRY TWP — Gabby Stewart was unsure if playing college softball was in her future.
Despite putting up gaudy numbers for three seasons as an outfielder for the Moniteau softball team, interest in her was tepid at best.
Then, at a tournament while playing for the Ohio Outlaws PA Elite travel team, her skill set caught the eye of Marshall University softball coach Shonda Stanton.
“It kind of happened by accident,” Stewart said. “She came to one of our tournaments and contacted my coach. I went there for a tryout.”
Stewart impressed enough at that visit two weeks ago to get an offer.
Stewart snatched it up instantly and committed verbally to play at Marshall, a Division I program that plays in Conference USA.
“It was just like a second home,” Stewart said. “The girls were so amazing and driven. They instantly became like a family.”
Stewart led Moniteau, which went 24-2 and reached the PIAA Class AA championship game, with a .645 batting average in the spring as a junior.
She was named first team all-state in Class AA.
As good as she was at the plate, Stewart's real strength was her speed and defense. She stole a team-leading 27 bases and also showcased a cannon arm in right field.
“Her junior year, she threw five runners out at first base after what looked like a base hit to right field,” said former Moniteau softball coach Dan Beebe.
“Gabby is the total package,” Beebe added. “At the plate, she can beat you in so many ways — bunting, slapping for a hit or hit for power. Her speed will be essential at the next level. Her future is bright.”
Marshall went 30-26 last spring.
Stewart said she has already been told she will be on the active roster as a freshman and was already fitted for a uniform.
“It's very exciting,” Stewart said. “It's going to be so exciting being dressed and wearing that uniform and being a part of the team. It's an awesome feeling.”
Her main role as a freshman will be as a pinch runner. Stewart said she hopes to move into a more regular role as a sophomore.
Stewart is happy she is getting a chance to live a dream. It was something that looked in doubt even this spring as the Warriors were blitzing their way through a program-best season.
“It's definitely a sense of accomplishment,” Stewart said. “It's been a dream ever since I was 10 or 11 to be playing for a Division I school, being in the spotlight, playing night games. It's the ultimate feeling.”
Stewart said now she will be able to enjoy her senior season even more as Moniteau will try to get back to the state title game and win.
The Warriors lost to Holy Redeemer, 9-3, in the state championship game in the spring.
“It's going to feel like I'm 12 again, just playing for fun,” Stewart said. “Everything has been lifted off my shoulders.”
