Tuesday, September 17, 2024
Reese Falish, De Pere, softball, volleyball
Parents’ names: Paul and Rebecca
Siblings: Nolan, Quinn and Dawson
Position or events: Pitcher
Career Highlight: My sophomore year we had a double header against Pulaski. I pitched 17 innings as the second game went into 10 innings. We ended up splitting with them. It was a very long day, but it was exciting and competitive.
At what age did you start playing your main sport?
Four years old.
Who introduced you to the sport?
My older brother Quinn played baseball so my parents put me in tee ball at a young age.
Has this always been your favorite sport?
Yes, although I play volleyball and used to play basketball for many years, softball has been my favorite sport.
How has balancing academics and athletics been different for you from your freshman year to your senior year?
It has been difficult, especially in season. Taking advantage of study halls has helped me a lot over the years to stay ahead in classes. Academics have also been very important to me, so many nights I stay up after games to get my studying and homework done.
What is your favorite part about this sport?
My favorite part about softball is the team environment. I love how close I am with all my teammates. Whether it’s in the dugout or after games when we go get dinner, I love the memories I make with the girls I play with.
What about it has caused you to stick with it for this long?
All the work I have put in ever since I was a young girl are the reasons I play through all the hard times. I have always dreamed of playing college softball, so I remind myself of that dream when times get hard or I have a bad game. I also train with my dad multiple times a week in the off season on pitching, and I want to make him proud and make the countless hours in the gym worth it.
Is there a professional athlete you look up to? If so, who?
I look up to Arike Ogunbowale. She is a professional basketball player and played at Notre Dame. My family are big Notre Dame fans, so I have gone to multiple basketball games when she was on the team. I look up to her and some of my favorite memories are watching her play in the NCAA Tournament.
What would you say is your biggest asset on the field/track?
I would say my ability to keep my composure. As a pitcher it’s very important to stay calm and relaxed in stressful games as you are part of every play and the team looks up to you.
What has been your most memorable experience in high school sports so far?
Winning Regionals my Junior year against Pulaski. It was the first time De Pere softball had won regionals in 16 years, so it was very special to be a part of the experience.
How does it feel as a senior, to look back throughout high school and see your growth (as a person and athlete)?
It makes me very proud of all the hard work I have put in. I can see how much I have grown physically and in my pitching abilities, but also my mental side of the game. My mentality is much stronger now as a senior and it helps me be a better leader on the field.
Do you have any pre-match rituals/routines/superstitions?
Before every game I put my airpods in on the bus and listen to music. Although I don’t do this every game, most games I also eat a Kellogg Rice Krispy treat as a pregame snack.
Do you take any extra steps to prepare for a big match/game/meet, outside of regular practices?
I get in longer warmups with weighted balls to work on spins and do more band work to make sure my arm can last a full competitive game.
Any memorable coaches or teammates you’d like to give a shout out to?
My catcher for my first three seasons at De Pere was Annika Dugenske. She was always there for me and did great behind the plate. As a freshman, she made me feel welcomed on the team.
Any hobbies outside of sports?
I love to go on walks, especially with my dog Jeter and hangout with friends.
Favorite song?
28 by Zach Bryan
Sports drinks like Gatorade and Powerade or water?
For a game I always have water and a yellow gatorade.
Future Plans? (college, major, career, etc.)
I am going to Minnesota State-Mankato to play softball next fall. I plan on majoring in business or marketing.
