SOMERS, N.Y. - The last time we saw Katherine Papa, she was on the losing end of a heartbreaking Section 1 semifinal defeat. As life moved on and the next chapter awaited at Rowan University, she trusted her instincts—the same way she always had with softball.
“There was a natural nervousness to leave home, but it was overpowered by my excitement to be there,” the New Jersey college student said.
Papa carefully laid the groundwork for her decision. The former Tusker was looking for a competitive softball program and a school that would allow her to focus on academics as well.
“I felt Rowan provided the best balance,” she said.
The transition was eased by a relatively smooth first semester. Entering with college credits already completed, the coursework was manageable, while the fall season consisted primarily of workouts and scrimmages.
Still, she quickly learned the culture that drives the program.
“Our coaches are very big on knowing your role and understanding what you can do to help the team win,” said the sophomore. “That’s what makes us a successful program.”
When the spring season arrived, however, everything intensified. To keep up with the demands of college life, Papa relied heavily on technology.
“I use Google Calendar and put everything in there,” she said. “Any meetings, practice, class—I had it open on my phone all the time, and that helped me keep track.”
Anatomy II generated the most reminders.
“This is the most content-heavy course I ever took,” she revealed.
By staying disciplined and putting in the necessary work, Papa found peace of mind.
“Everything is going to be OK,” she would tell herself.
On the field, things came together as well.
“We all live together. They are easily my best friends,” she said of her teammates. “We know we can count on each other for anything.”
As a result, being second on the catching depth chart never became her primary focus. An early-season injury to the starting catcher gave Papa an opportunity, and she made the most of it by delivering an RBI double in her first collegiate at-bat.
“That is going to stick out for me forever,” she said.
Although she started her college career batting 1.000, Papa quickly recognized the difference between high school and college pitching.
“The work you have to put in at the college level is completely different,” she said, citing improved velocity and spin rates.
When the starting catcher returned, Papa found herself back on the bench. While it was unfamiliar territory for a four-year varsity starter, she relied on lessons learned earlier in her career to stay focused.
“When I was young, I did the same thing,” she recalled. “I was always taught—especially by my dad—that nothing will be given to me. I’m going to have to work hard to earn it. That’s what I did to get where I was on varsity, even as a freshman.”
Her future softball goals reflect that same mindset.
“I just want to work as hard as I can during the offseason so I can put myself in the best position to compete for a spot on the field,” she said.
Despite the sacrifices that come with being a college athlete, Papa doesn't feel she's missing out on the traditional college experience.
“This is the best experience I’ve ever had,” she said. “I’ve never been happier.”
As for her professional aspirations, Papa hopes to become an orthopedic surgeon. While that goal remains years away, she credits her foundation to the support she received growing up in Somers.
“My parents, we’re very close and I can talk to them about anything,” she concluded. “They are my ultimate support system, and I know I will always have them in my corner.”
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