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MacDougall an MVP of Scholar-Athlete Games
Carly MacDougall is the type of girl most parents probably wish they had.
The Fauquier High softball player strives to work her hardest in the classroom and on the playing field, but puts academics ahead of everything.
MacDougall, a rising senior who has maintained a 4.0 GPA, represented Virginia at the International Scholar-Athlete Games at the University of Rhode Island from June 28 to July 5.
MacDougall practiced and played softball at the prestigious event and also attended lectures by Colin Powell, Claus Nobel, and Vint Cerf, who discussed matters such as world peace, leadership and sportsmanship.
MacDougall was most inspired by Powell’s speech.
“He was so amazing. He was moving, inspirational, and he was everything you wanted to hear in a public speaker," MacDougall said. "It was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”
MacDougall was not only motivated by Powell’s speech, she was also moved by his character.
“He wasn’t the best person in school, he wasn’t the best student, and he wasn’t the star athlete. He was an average Joe and he worked his way up," MacDougall said. "It is very inspiring to know you don’t have to be the best, you just have to have a good attitude.”
Meanwhile, on the softball field, MacDougall played extremely well. Amazing statistics such as nine base hits, a games-high 15 stolen bases, 10 runs scored and eight RBIs helped the second baseman earn MVP honors.
“I worked really hard and played ball like I knew how to," she said. "I just played softball.”
MacDougall also credited her success to her teammates and coaches.
“I had three great coaches who helped me a lot, and I learned a lot from the girls around me. I was surrounded by a great group of girls who bonded really quickly and nobody was there to be jealous or anything," MacDougall said. "We just inspired each other to do our best every day and keep on going. My success had a lot to do with this.”
Playing at least five hours each day, MacDougall actually noticed improvements in her game as the event progressed.
“My speed really increased during the week,” she said.
MacDougall also felt that the Scholar-Athlete Games made her a better person.
“It helped me realize what I actually want to do and strive to achieve," she said. "It’s comforting to know that you’re not the only one doing it...”See the Friday print edition of the Fauquier Weekend for the complete story.
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