Paige Forry, a recent graduate of Gettysburg College and an alumna of Schuylkill Valley, has concluded a collegiate softball career that will undoubtedly be etched into the annals of the institution’s athletic history. Her remarkable journey as a pitcher culminated in an array of unprecedented achievements, firmly establishing her as one of the most decorated athletes in the college’s recent past.
Before her stellar tenure at Gettysburg, Forry showcased her burgeoning talent during her high school years. Despite experiencing a singular full season with the Schuylkill Valley Panthers, she left an indelible mark, recording an impressive 159 strikeouts, maintaining a formidable 1.40 ERA, and contributing offensively with a .455 batting average alongside five home runs. These statistics were pivotal in guiding the Panthers to a commendable 9-7 record and securing a second-place finish in Berks III, earning her recognition on the BCIAA All-Division 3 team.
The confluence of her high school exploits and her standout performance with her travel team, PA Xtreme, drew the attention of Gettysburg College scouts. Upon arrival, Forry made a strategic decision to focus exclusively on her pitching prowess, a common practice among collegiate athletes recovering from past injuries. This dedicated approach laid the foundation for a legendary college softball career, where she was determined to forge her own softball legacy.
Her dedication quickly bore fruit, as evidenced by a cascade of honors in 2023. Forry was named Centennial Conference Pitcher of the Year, earned a spot on the All-Centennial Conference First Team, and was recognized as an All-America Scholar Athlete, alongside NFCA All-Region V First Team honors. Reflecting on her initial college season, Forry acknowledged the adaptability required under different coaching styles, a testament to her resilience and commitment to improvement.
Despite these early triumphs, Forry candidly admitted to grappling with the pressure that accompanied her first Pitcher of the Year award. She confessed to internalizing expectations, a common challenge for high-achieving student-athletes. However, this self-imposed pressure fueled her resolve, driving her to relentlessly refine her skills and consistently elevate her game, embodying the spirit of a true pitching phenom.
The following year, 2024, saw Forry replicate her extraordinary success, securing her second consecutive Centennial Conference Pitcher of the Year title. This was complemented by another inclusion on the All-Centennial Conference First Team, NFCA All-Region Second Team recognition, and an honorable mention on the CC Academic Honor Roll. Her excellence extended beyond the field, as she actively contributed to the Gettysburg community through her involvement in the Psi Chi honor society and work within the campus equipment room, showcasing her holistic approach to collegiate life.
Entering her senior campaign, Forry set her sights on an unparalleled achievement: becoming the sole record-breaker in Gettysburg College softball history to win three Centennial Conference Pitcher of the Year awards. This ambition transformed into a guiding principle, culminating in her unprecedented third consecutive title. Her performance on the national stage was equally remarkable, ranking second in wins, fifth in strikeouts, and earning a spot on the Academic All-America Division III Softball Third Team, a first for Gettysburg College softball, cementing her status as a national softball star.
Amidst her numerous accolades, Forry cherishes a unique moment when Gettysburg hosted an NCAA Regional game on her graduation day, an event where she secured her 30th win of the season and was named tournament MVP. Looking ahead, Forry plans to pursue a master’s degree in physical education at Eastern University, with aspirations of becoming a teacher and coaching softball as a graduate assistant, continuing her profound impact on the sport.
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