Abby Zawadzki from St. Charles North took decisive action when necessary. She focused on her goals and made significant strides. Her efforts paid off in the Aurora-Elgin area softball scene, where a familiar connection emerged.
“It was a bit stressful,” said Zawadzki about her situation after the high school season. Once unsure of her next steps, she now knows her destination. On June 30, Zawadzki signed with Ohio State coach Kirin Kumar, reuniting with former summer teammate Sara Tarr.
Zawadzki, known for her skills in pitching and as a first base player, reopened her recruitment last September. Initially committed to Ole Miss in the SEC, she is now heading to the Big Ten.
“I knew recruiting opportunities would be limited during the college season,” Zawadzki explained. “After high school, I had to accelerate the process. Fortunately, I was well-supported.”
She mentioned Lauren McNulty’s influence. McNulty, who coached Zawadzki and Tarr with the 18U Dennison Silver Hawks, aided in the process significantly. “Lauren’s contacts were invaluable,” Zawadzki acknowledged. “Active participation in camps and outreach to coaches is crucial.”
Although Zawadzki preferred staying closer to home, she was content at Ole Miss until changes compelled her to rethink. The NCAA’s introduction of a 25-player roster cap for softball, effective July 2025, impacted her plans.
Zawadzki committed verbally to Ole Miss in 2024, but faced challenges with the new restriction. “Previously, the limit was 35 players,” Zawadzki noted. “In my class alone, five were pitchers among 13 recruits.” Her Ole Miss offer was among those rescinded after the roster cap adjustment.
Kumar, who expressed interest before, remained a strong supporter. This past spring marked Kumar’s second year coaching the Buckeyes, having moved from Miami of Ohio. Tarr, initially a Miami of Ohio recruit, transitioned to Ohio State with Kumar.
For the Buckeyes, Tarr played extensively as a freshman, wielding a .206 average and contributing solid figures in several games. In the area, Kumar also recruited Yorkville’s Madi Reeves, the MAC Freshman of the Year at Miami of Ohio, who later transferred to Louisville.
“I was aware of Sara,” said Zawadzki. “During my sophomore summer, we shared teammates. I didn’t meet her on campus during my visit, but I’m looking forward to playing together.” They kept in touch, and Tarr supported Zawadzki during her post-commitment game.
Zawadzki’s senior year was memorable. She finished 12-0 with a 2.07 ERA, hitting .420 with 11 homers and 45 RBIs. She earned the 2026 Beacon-News/Courier-News Softball Player of the Year title and was a first-team all-state member.
Will she continue both pitching and hitting in college? Zawadzki shared her aspirations with Kumar, expressing interest in doing both. Her determination suggests she won’t be easily underestimated.