Gabrielle DeCleene recently completed her career with the Pulaski softball team. Submitted Photo

By Murray Gleffe
Correspondent

Name: Gabrielle DeCleene

Nickname: Gab

School: Pulaski

Sport: Softball

Parents: Michelle and Craig DeCleene

Twitter: @gdecleene19

Gabrielle DeCleene was a senior on the Pulaski softball team.

She was recently named the co-Fox River Classic Conference Player of the Year with Green Bay Preble’s Brooke Hock.

DeCleene said her favorite breakfast food is French toast with a side of French fries.

Describe the history of Pulaski softball and its year-to-year success.

“There have been many talented players who have been a part of the program. My best memory is making a state appearance my freshman year. I believe the year-to-year success is accomplished through mental toughness, selflessness and passion for the game.”

In your mind, what’s the toughest position to play?

“Looking at the mental and physical aspect, I believe the hardest position is being a pitcher.”

Favorite saying from the dugout?

“Win the battle.”

What’s your goal when you’re up to bat?

“All I’m thinking about is to make good contact with the ball.”

How have you grown as a person?  

“I’ve grown mentally and physically by becoming more confident and adapting to the curve balls thrown at me – no pun intended.”

Talk about one thing you’d fix in 2022.

“Figuring out how to stop my dog from eating everything in sight.”

What’s one thing other classmates or teachers don’t know about you?

“I want to hike the Appalachian Mountains.”

What other sport do you enjoy playing recreationally?

“Basketball. I rejoined my junior and senior years and met a lot of awesome teammates.”

Favorite TV show?

“Impractical Jokers.”

Favorite book?

“Green Eggs and Ham.”

What are your college aspirations?

“Playing softball while getting a physical therapy degree.”

Would you rather drive in NASCAR or ride a horse?

“Drive in NASCAR.”

What’s the slickest thing about the new softball stadium at Pulaski?

“The upgraded concession stand.”

Favorite softball player?

“Jocelyn Alo from Oklahoma.”

What three words describe you?

“Humorous, caring, adaptable.”

What’s your favorite subject in school?

“Science – specifically, human anatomy and physiology.”

Biggest sports achievement?

“Ending my junior year with a .673 batting average.”

Talk about a special moment during Pulaski’s Polka Days.

“Ironically enough, I’ve only gone to Polka Days twice.”

Chick-fil-A or Popeyes?

“Chick-fil-A.”

Four places you’d like to visit?

“Big Sky, Montana; Hawi, Hawaii; Park City, Utah; Bend, Oregon.”

Talk about the excitement after a home run or game-winning hit.

“Being able to round third base to see my teammates cheering at home plate is one of the best feelings. The excitement is unbeatable – you feel all the stress and nerves lift off your shoulders as if you’re in your own world.”

Where do you see yourself in 20 years?

“I see myself raising a happy family and having a successful occupation. I would also love to pass on my abilities and love for the game of softball to younger athletes.”