Behind the Shield | Gabrielle Debevec

Hi Fighting Illini Family!
 
My name is Gabby Debevec and I have just started my junior year on the softball team. I am a middle infielder from Antioch, Ill., and I am studying accounting in the Gies College of Business.
 
I am looking forward to starting my third season as a Fighting Illini. This year, we welcomed some amazing new women to the team who are just as committed as the returners are to bring this softball team to a new level. The start to a  Big Ten Championship is already in full swing, as team practices started this past weekend.  
 
This past weekend, our team had the privilege to experience a very personal and original team-bonding event. One of the tasks was the courage pole. The courage pole was a telephone pole that each team member had to climb to the top while harnessed. Once we reached the top, we had to shout out one thing that we wanted more courage to be able to do. I was very proud of the way each one of us were able to be vulnerable, even at 30 feet in the air. The last thing that had to be completed was a jump off the pole. It was because of the support we had for one another that every team member completed this challenge. Our team was united together throughout the entire experience, which makes me extremely hopeful for our 2024-25 season.
 
Fall ball is right around the corner and we are preparing and improving every day to have an undefeated fall season. I cannot wait to show our fans what we are capable of this year, because it is something great.
 
I-L-L
#4 Gabrielle Debevec