On November 13th, senior softball player Ellyse Hydock committed to the University of Northern Colorado and signed her Athletic Aid Agreement for softball.
Hydock has been playing softball since the age of 6, progressing from team to team throughout her elementary and middle school years. She recently finished her fourth and final year of softball with Greeley West and continues to play with her team, Nebraska Gold outside of Omaha.
The recruitment process started as early as freshman year for Hydock. This intense process included emailing multiple colleges before each game and rigorous camps. “It was very stressful; probably one of the hardest parts of my softball career,” Hydock said.
Hydock’s journey with Greeley West softball has been a representation of growth and leadership. With her team, Hydock made it to state two years in a row and regionals three years in a row. Hydock mentioned, “We were not really a name known for softball before I came in, so it was cool to build our name up with the team that we created.”
Varsity softball coach Hannah Rivera said, “Ellyse has been a cornerstone of our team’s success.”
Hard work and dedication played an essential role in Hydocks accomplishments. This was only possible through mastering the balancing act of softball, academics, and her social life. “Off the field, she has matured into a confident, hardworking young woman who balances her academics and athletics seamlessly,” Rivera stated.
Hydock believes that time management has helped her the most in this process. Although, sometimes, she had to do things that she didn’t want to do and had very little time for, Hydock was willing to make the sacrifice. ”Hard work is a sacrifice I make to get to my goal,” said Hydock.
Along with her individual sacrifices, Hydock could not have made it to where she is today without her parents and coaches. Hydock said, “My parents have always stuck by my side and have been supportive of all my decisions.”
Rivera stands out to Hydock as a mentor. “She taught me more in three months than I have learned in a lifetime,” Hydock stated.
Hydock cannot wait to start her college experience at UNC. She is looking forward to traveling with her team and being a part of a sisterhood. Hydock said, “It seemed like a very positive culture that I wanted to be a part of.”
Rivera has high hopes for Hydocks’ upcoming experience. “I hope she enjoys every moment and creates memories that will last a lifetime while reaching her full potential both on and off the field,” said Rivera.
To sign as a D1 athlete has meant the world to Hydock. “It just shows that all of the hard work, workouts, and hours that I’ve put in have paid off,” mentioned Hydock
