Peyton Vasquez Makes A Case For The JUCO Route

Peyton Vasquez played college softball at the JUCO level for two seasons at Cisco College in Cisco, Texas.

In 75 games during her time at Cisco, which included the 2020 shortened season due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Texas native posted a career .411 batting average, scored 67 runs and stole 55 bases.

After two seasons at Cisco, she transferred to the NAIA level at Texas A&M–San Antonio, where she played her first season this past spring. In 52 games in 2022, Vasquez led the Jaguars with a .396 average, 47 runs scored and 45 stolen bases.

Softball America caught up with Vasquez, who is a First-Team All-Conference and Second-Team All-Region selection, to learn about her college softball career to date and how taking the JUCO route impacted her journey.

Softball America: What was it like for you to attend a JUCO for two years?

Peyton Vasquez: Some people debate going to a JUCO, but, honestly, it was the best two years of my life. The team bond was strong, and I made friendships I know won’t break. It was challenging some days, but it was worth it.

SA: When looking for a four-year college, what went into your decision-making process?

PV: Most of it was about my credits transferring. Secondly, it was about feeling comfortable with the coaches. If not, it isn’t a good place for me.

SA: How did attending a JUCO help you going into Texas A&M–San Antonio?

PV: Academically, it helped me realize there are classes that require extra time. It also helped me figure out how to balance work and softball. Athletically, the number of games played in JUCO was a lot more than at a four-year (college). That made it easier to work through every game.

SA: Would you recommend that youth softball players give the JUCO route more thought when making decisions about playing college softball?

PV: I definitely think it is the best choice. You gain experience and make great memories. Going from a smaller campus to a larger one isn’t so difficult. Seeing both levels makes it clear that nothing will top my JUCO years.

SA: How was the transferring process for you from Cisco College to Texas A&M–San Antonio?

PV: Going through the transferring process was smooth with the help of my coach and a few returners. They explained what needed to be done and the best way to go about it.