Grace McGouldrick, (GHS ‘18), University of Maine Graduate student standout, is among the NCAA’s best in stealing bases. She tied the school record on April 30 and broke the record on May 5th. The outfielder for the UMaine Black Bears is the leadoff hitter batting L/R. She has found her niche in helping her team gain momentum in tough games; getting the black bears on the scoreboard first or creating key runs down the stretch. She is currently ranked 16th overall in the nation, racking up 31 stolen bases.
Photo credit: Katie BrownMcGouldrick reacts to her teammates in the dugout after she stole 3rd base to tie the school record
In early April, when McGouldrick found out she was on the brink of the stolen base record, she explained to Fox 22 of Bangor, “ I didn’t realize I was close to even breaking it,” McGouldrick says. “I saw a Twitter post saying that I was already halfway to it and I was like, ‘Oh my God.’ It’s really exciting. My sprint times from the past few years just went up, and I’ve gotten a little faster this year,” McGouldrick says. “We were like, “let’s just try it!’ It’s fun, so we might as well.” No surprise, McGouldick’s personality exuberates positive energy.
McGouldrick is certainly a “star” in her own right. Her tireless energy and dedication is exceptional. She sees each and every game as a gift and is having the best time with her teammates. She is a role model for younger athletes, especially in her hometown, who have either had her as a coach or have worked with her in some capacity in the sport. She attributes her success to opportunities and hard work.
Photo credit: Katie BrownMcGouldrick rounding 3rd after her home run on April 29th
Leading up to the tournament, On April 29, McGouldrick tied the America East battle at one run apiece with a solo shot in the bottom of the third inning. It was the first home run of the season for McGouldrick.
The Black Bears prepared for tournament time and on Friday, May 5th v. Bryant University, McGouldrick broke the school record with 31 season stolen bases. This feat in itself is inspiring. As a grad student, McGouldrick has provided strong leadership skills and has set the bar high for future softball players.