Grace Nichols Named PCFL Player of the Month for May

The Alliance Fastpitch proudly announces Grace Nichols (2028) from the Pacific Coast Fastpitch League (PCFL) as Player of the Month for her remarkable play in May 2024. Grace Nichols, a versatile player for Power Surge Walling/Baggarly, excels in multiple positions—OF, P. Her May stats include a .429 batting average, a .429 OBP, 4 singles, 2 doubles, 3 RBIs, and 1 stolen base.

Grace Nichols’ softball journey begins in first grade, drawn to the sport by its supportive team atmosphere. She loves the challenge, the training, and the camaraderie with her teammates. Grace benefits from the guidance of amazing coaches throughout her career, from recreational leagues to All-Stars and travel ball. Stevie, her hitting coach, and Aleah, her pitching coach, inspire her to be her best. Her parents also play a crucial role, often practicing pitching and hitting with her to help her reach her potential.

A cherished softball memory for Grace is during the semi-finals of a tournament. Her team goes into an international tiebreaker and finds themselves down by one in the bottom of the eighth inning. With the winning run on third base, Grace steps up to hit and secures the game-winning hit. It is a true team effort, with everyone contributing to the victory through pitching, fielding, and hitting. This teamwork not only wins them the game but also leads them to triumph in the championship.

Grace’s favorite players are Odicci Alexander and Jayda Coleman. Outside of softball, she enjoys exploring the outdoors through hiking and traveling in Southern California. She also loves reading, hanging out with friends, working out, and spending time with her family and pets.

Grace’s current goals include playing softball in college, maintaining a 4.0 GPA in high school, and eventually attending law school to become a lawyer. The Alliance Fastpitch commends Grace on her well-deserved recognition as Player of the Month, acknowledging her outstanding contributions to the sport and her commitment to personal and athletic growth.

Grace Nichols’ coach, Ginger Baggarly, describes her as someone who has been dubbed “clutch” by the parents. She always comes through in a pinch and has had some great hits in close games. Grace is tiny but mighty. Not necessarily an “over the fence” kid yet, but she can find a right center hole like no other. She cheers on her teammates and stays positive. Grace is always the life of the party. She works hard in school, loves her teammates, and takes feedback as it comes.

What is the Alliance Fastpitch Player Recognition Program?

The Player Recognition Program was built to recognize and spotlight our individual players in each Member League. Each month, registered Alliance Fastpitch coaches can nominate a player from their age division. League Leadership will review nominations and a monthly stats report from AthletesGoLive (AGL) to determine the League’s Player of the Month.

Following the announcement of each League’s Players of the Month, the Alliance Fastpitch will recognize a National Player of the Month. To be considered for Player of the Month, your team must score League games in AGL so your stats will be included in the League’s monthly report.