10/17/2026
Today, we gathered at Rutgers University to celebrate the life, legacy, and extraordinary impact of our beloved Coach Pat Willis.
For 29 years, Coach was at the helm of Rutgers Softball, building far more than a successful program. She built a foundation of strength, resilience, loyalty, and love that has stayed with us long after we played our final games.
Coach, alongside Gibby and Gabby, created a place where we could grow, compete, struggle, succeed, and most importantly, flourish as young women. They believed in us, challenged us, pushed us beyond what we thought possible, and helped shape the women we would become.
We are forever grateful.
And let’s not forget, Coach Willis was one heck of a pitcher herself! To all my pitchers out there, take a good look at that photo. Check out that incredible wrist position and STRONG lead leg!
Today, we missed Coach deeply at the field she helped build. But her presence was everywhere. In the stories, the laughter, the hugs, the memories, and especially in the teammates who came together to honor her.
The greatest gift softball ever gave me wasn’t a championship, an accolade, or a moment on the field. It was the gift of being a teammate.
To be part of something so much bigger than yourself. To belong to a family whose bonds don’t weaken with time or distance. To know that decades later, these are still your people. People who show up for each other, celebrate each other, carry each other through difficult times, and love each other fiercely.
Our loyalty runs deep. Our friendships are lifelong. And together, I truly believe we can move mountains.
Today was especially meaningful because I got to share it with Gibby, one of my greatest heroes, and my best friend, Carla. And sitting in the seat I purchased to support Rutgers Softball, with my name on it, reminded me just how proud I am to forever be part of this program and this family.
Coach Willis, thank you for believing in us, for investing in us, and for giving us something that will last a lifetime.
Forever Scarlet. Forever grateful. Forever teammates. ❤️🖤
PS THIS WAS COACH’s PREGAME SONG!!