Anslee Saunchegraw Takes the Field and Dominates in Her Rookie Season at Piedmont
April 2, 2026 - Angelica Lux
Saunchegraw’s presence on the field and in the batter’s box is a nightmare for opposing teams. With her defensive skills at shortstop and a threat at the plate, it is hard to ignore her outstanding performance in her freshman season.
In her first year at Piedmont, she has earned National Player of the Week in Division III, CCS Player of the Week, and Rookie of the Week.
“The awards have been nice…the awards mean a lot to me…but at the end of the day, it is about producing in the moment.”
Faith and persistence drive the freshman to excel in her first collegiate season.
“When I am on the field playing the game, I am just so blessed,” says Saunchegraw on her faith impacting her game. “I give all the glory to God for putting me where I am right now.”
Being surrounded by faith-driven teammates and coaches has made her outlook on the game just as faithful.
“There were a lot of times I got consumed within my performance and my stats that it was taking a toll on me…having a true relationship with God, it does not matter if you hit a game-winning hit or made the game-losing error,” Saunchegraw says about applying a faithful mindset to her performance.
Piedmont University softball head coach, Terry Martin, is the advisor and founder of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, othwerwise known as FCA, at Piedmont University. Having a coach back by faith and a team built on fellowship with one another helps Saunchegraw feel right at home.
Being a part of a confident group of Christian athletes takes the pressure of perfecting her game off Sauchegraw's shoulders.
“Having that in the back of my mind to constantly be surrounded by the word and His presence is just so fulfilling.”
Playing softball has taught Saunchegraw that it is unrealistic to be perfect all the time playing a sport. But her determination has also taught her that if one wants to be good at something, hard work has to closely follow.
On the field, it is obvious that Saunchegraw has put in a lot of work and dedication into her game. With her tight defense and unstoppable force at the plate, her future shines bright at Piedmont.
