Why Brianna Peck Chose Virginia Tech

Pennsylvania native Brianna Peck was able to make a name for herself early on in her softball career. The Virginia Tech commit, who played travel ball for the PA Strikers, was named the Pennsylvania Gatorade Player of the Year when she was only a high school sophomore, after recording a 0.80 ERA on the season.

Peck, who is ranked No. 25 overall in SA's 2021 Top 100 Recruiting Rankings, now spends most of her time on defense at shortstop and is always a threat in the batting order.

Learn more about Peck and her recruiting journey to Virginia Tech below.

Softball America: Can you recall a specific point in time when you knew you wanted to play softball in college?

Brianna Peck: I remember when I was younger and my older sister started playing softball. I loved watching her team play, and I knew I wanted to start playing. I also started watching Florida play on TV, and I always knew that l wanted to be on TV and have the opportunity to play college softball.

SA: How has your pitching experience helped you as a player?

BP: At shortstop, I love being able to cheer on my pitcher during the game. I definitely have a unique perspective when hitting. I am able to think about what situation the pitcher is in, what pitches she may throw and then make adjustments if needed.

SA: How did you navigate the recruiting process coming from Pennsylvania?

BP: My coach, Camille, was a big influence, and she helped me a ton with the recruiting process. It really helped that I was able to travel to so many places for softball camps and tournaments.

SA: Why did you ultimately decide on Virginia Tech?

BP: The coaching staff are all amazing people, the campus is beautiful and I just fell in love with the campus when I got there.

SA: How did your high school and travel teams prepare you for the big stage you are going to play on in college?

BP: With travel ball, I feel that I’ve prepared myself by playing against competitive teams, which has allowed me to become the player I am today. For school ball, we have always focused on being part of a team and working as a team, not just as an individual.

SA: What are you most excited for at Virginia Tech?

BP: Definitely meeting the girls and creating new bonds with them. I am also excited to meet new people outside of softball too.

SA: What advice would you give to young players who hope to play college softball one day?

BP: I would just say you've got to keep working hard towards what you want by putting in the extra work. Also, it’s important to keep in contact with college coaches from the schools that you really want to go to. You have to put yourself out there and show you are putting in the work. 

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