As a celebration of the 50th Anniversary of Division III, the Ohio Athletic Conference will be highlighting student-athletes in the conference who embody the ideals of a Division III student-athlete. This month's Q&A features Rachel Berry, a junior Softball player at Wilmington College.
Name: Rachel Berry
Sport/Position: Softball / Outfield
Institution: Wilmington College '25
Major: Exercise Science (Allied Health concentration)
Hometown: Lebanon, Ohio
Q: What is your favorite part of being a Division III student-athlete?
Division III has brought me some of my best friends in the form of my teammates. We go through conditioning, practices and even classes together. It is nice to have people on campus who know and understand what you are going through and having them to talk to and laugh with.
Q: What has been your favorite moment at Wilmington?
It’s hard for me to pinpoint a singular favorite moment. I have spent a countless number of days with my teammates, and they are all great memories. During my freshman year when we were facing the COVID restrictions, my freshman class got really close and learned how to make our own fun which gave our group a special bond.
Q: What is your favorite memory from playing softball and competing in the OAC?
My favorite memory is from my freshman year when we upset Muskingum at Muskingum. The energy on our team was so good and it was a great way to end the season with our seniors.
Q: How will Division III set you up for success after college and your sport?
Being a Division III athlete has taught me time management skills, perseverance, and how to work with a group of different minded people towards a common goal. These are relevant to working in the “real world”, especially a physical therapy clinic where you work in teams to help people reach their rehab goals. Also, having a balance between athletics and academics has allowed me to focus on my classes and get good grades so that I can be competitive when applying to grad school.
Q: What is your plan for after you graduate?
After graduation I hope to continue my education and earn a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree.
