From backyard catches with her dad to record-breaking performances on the softball field, Emily McCarthy’s softball journey is defined by dedication, consistency, and a genuine love for the game. Emily is a four-year varsity softball second baseman who consistently exceeds expectations as a student, teammate, and player.
Emily’s discipline and determination are rooted in playing sports. Emily plays volleyball and hockey at Ramapo, as well as softball, and maintains a healthy balance between her athletic performance and her academics. “In playing three sports, one season ran into the next, and there was no downtime. I was always busy with practices, games, and homework. As someone who values my academic performance just as much as my athletic performance,” comments Emily.
Her hard work ultimately translated into success. Emily reached 100 career hits in her junior year and 150 in her senior year, ultimately finishing the season with an impressive 172 hits. She then later broke the school record for career hits, maintained a .475 batting average, and recorded 83 stolen bases, solidifying her place as one of the top players in program history. Ramapo softball coach Darren white comments, “With Emily’s athleticism, she can play anywhere on the field. Including catcher. She settled in at second base and has been a four-year starter for us.”
Although Emily always loved the game, it wasn’t until her sophomore year that she truly considered playing at the next level. After a tough loss in the playoffs her sophomore year, she watched as her senior teammates played their final game. “They weren’t just upset about losing—they were upset because it was over,” Emily said. “That’s when I realized I wasn’t ready to give that up.” From that moment on, she committed herself to continuing her softball career in college. Emily will continue her softball career at Colby College in Maine, where she plans to major in economics, and will compete at the NCAA level, taking on new challenges both academically and athletically. Her softball coach, Coach White, further remarks, “I have no doubt Emily will shine her next four years at the Collegiate level; her skill set and work ethic will transcend into the collegiate level. We will certainly miss Emily next year, but know she will be on to bigger and better things at Colby.”
Emily encourages younger athletes to stay present and enjoy every moment. “Even though it’s a big commitment and can be tough, just try to have fun like when you were a little kid playing,” she said. “The four years go by faster than you think.” As her high school career comes to an end, Emily leaves behind not only a record-breaking legacy but also a reminder to appreciate the game.
