State Bank Financial Senior Spotlight

Parents’ names: Mark and Lisa Pearce

Siblings: Caden, Claire and Kendall Pearce

Position or events: Softball - outfield, Basketball - guard

Career highlight: I do not really have any significant career highlights throughout my high school athletic journey. To answer this question, I would just say simply being on a team with some of my best friends. As a senior on the varsity softball team, I have learned how to be a leader and hold my teammates accountable as well as myself. I am blessed to spend my last year with the best group of girls and not take the time I have left with them for granted.

At what age did you start playing your main sport? 

I started playing softball with my twin sister, Kendall, at the age of 6, where we played tee ball at the park in Hewitt during their summer league.

Who introduced you to the sport? 

I was introduced to softball by my mom and dad. As my older brother was really involved in athletics, my parents decided to have me and my sister try out softball and we have loved it ever since. We truly got involved around 9 years old when we joined Marshfield Fastpitch, a summer club ball program. We played with the program up until this past summer. 

Has this always been your favorite sport? 

This sport has always been my favorite from the start. All of the lessons I have learned, friendships I’ve gained and memories I’ve made are something truly unforgettable. 

How has balancing academics and athletics been different from freshman to senior year? Balancing academics and athletics was definitely a challenge through all four years. My academics is something I take great pride in, especially in DC and AP courses. I like to be organized and stay on top of my work especially during sports seasons where weeks can get long. But overall, using my class time and free time wisely, getting help when I need and keeping academics a priority benefited me in the end. 

What is your favorite part of this sport? 

My favorite part of softball is the bonds and friendships I have made, whether a coach or teammate. They have shaped my character and have helped me become the athlete I am today and I am grateful to have such a great support system behind my back. 

What has kept you in the sport this long? 

Definitely my teammates for keeping me going even on my bad days and being there to hold me accountable, reminding me that we all make mistakes. Also my mom and dad for being my biggest supporters and motivators. Whether staying later at practices to get more reps or driving hours to tournaments, they have been there through it all. 

What is your biggest asset as an athlete? 

I would say my biggest asset as an athlete is how mentally tough I am. Softball is a game of failure and I think staying resilient and trusting the work I put in, outside of games and practices, benefits how I approach situations and how I can bounce back from those moments. Another asset I have as an athlete on the field is how coachable I am. I always look for ways to improve and take advice and use it to get better to benefit not only me, but also my team. 

Any coaches or teammates you want to recognize?

First, I want to recognize my twin sister, Kendall, for sticking by my side through all of the madness in our life. She truly motivates me to be a better athlete and an even better person. Even though everything turns into a friendly competition, I wouldn't trade it for the world and I am so grateful I have had the experience to do it with her. A coach I would like to recognize is Justin Casperson. He has been the one to keep my love for the game going and always reminded me to “embrace the suck.” Another person I would like to thank is Randy Montalvo for working with me whether it was late at night or early in the morning on the weekend, helping me improve my game at the plate and always being there for me. 

Hobbies outside of sports: 

Spending time with my family and friends, traveling, being outdoors with my dad and shopping with my mom and sisters. 

Favorite song: 

I like to listen to many different genres of music. If I had to pick, right now I would say any of the songs from Noah Kahan’s new album. 

Future plans: 

Attend the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse in the fall to major in physical, adaptive and special health education.