Introduction
I’m an international student from Australia, now studying and playing softball at the University of Iowa. Softball’s been my thing since I picked up a glove at seven, and I’ve dreamed of playing college ball in the U.S. ever since. Coming to Iowa to join the university’s team has been amazing, and it’s pushed me even more to keep working hard in both sports and school.
Playing on my national team has taken me to eight different countries, where I’ve competed and learned from some of the best. Those trips taught me a lot about resilience, teamwork, and adapting to new cultures. Each game and every place I’ve been just made me love the sport even more and keeps me reaching for the top.
Relevant Experiences
I’ve had the incredible opportunity to play on my national team in places like Japan, Canada, and New Zealand, each tournament bringing new challenges and pushing me to grow as a player. Competing internationally not only honed my technical skills but also taught me to adapt to different playing styles and environments. Winning multiple national championships with my state team showed me the true power of teamwork and perseverance, while captaining that team taught me invaluable lessons in leadership, like how to motivate and support others under pressure.
Being selected for the All-Australian team was a milestone, acknowledging my hard work and dedication to the sport on a national level. These experiences, from leading a team to winning championships, have all shaped me into a more resilient, adaptable athlete and a stronger leader. Each step has deepened my passion for softball and strengthened my commitment to reaching new heights in the sport.
Skills
I’ve developed key skills through my experience on national and state teams, including leadership, teamwork, adaptability, and resilience. As a captain, I’ve learned to communicate effectively, motivate teammates, and stay focused under pressure. My technical skills in hitting, fielding, and base running have been honed through years of training and competition. I’ve also built a strong athletic foundation with mental conditioning to handle high-pressure situations. Additionally, my international experience has given me cultural awareness and the ability to connect with diverse teammates, making me a versatile and dependable recruit for any college program.
Follow Along!
For more updates on my softball journey and experiences in the US, feel free to check out my social media channels:
Twitter: _Biancamarkham
Instagram: biancamarkham_
Bianca Markham 