Ryleigh Perks, a talented shortstop for the Williamsburg Starz Gold Bunn 16U, competes in the prestigious Atlantic Coast Fastpitch League's Super division. Graduating in 2026, Ryleigh is committed to furthering her athletic career at Virginia Tech, where her skills will undoubtedly make an impact. Known for her exceptional athleticism and sharp instincts on the field, Ryleigh combines strong defensive range with a powerful offensive approach. Her versatility allows her to seamlessly transition between shortstop and third base, showcasing advanced reads and situational awareness that elevate her team’s performance. With a right-handed batting stance and a competitive mindset, she consistently demonstrates plate discipline and gap coverage that keeps opposing teams on their toes. Ryleigh’s accolades include the Throwing Champion award, which she earned in 2024 for achieving the highest overhand velocity during the Skills Challenge at the AFCS, and the 70 mph OH Velo Club recognition in 2025 for surpassing 70 mph in her throws. These achievements highlight her dedication to honing her skills in a competitive travel environment, setting the stage for a promising collegiate career. To learn more about her academic and athletic journey, visit her SportsRecruits profile. GET TO KNOW HER... MOST MEMORABLE SOFTBALL MOMENT? When my team lost our first game in Indiana last year in bracket play and right after that game we had to come back and win 3 back to back games to stay in tournament and advance to the next day. MY STORY I'd want the story of what it took to be able to throw normally again after tearing my rotator cuff and having tendinitis in my elbow. I pitched up until I was 13 and after my injury I never pitched the same so I decided to go a different route and just stick to middle infield. It took about 8 months of PT appointments to feel all the way better. Also when I was injured and couldn't throw underhand id underhand flip it to where it needed to go. WHAT DO YOU WANT YOUR LEGACY TO BE IN SOFTBALL? I want my legacy to be someone who was always coachable, a great teammate, and always wanted to get better and elevate my game! FUN FAMILY FACTS I have a twin sister named Kayleigh who is going to Gardner Webb for softball, My dad went to Radford for Baseball! WHY DID YOU CHOOSE THAT VIRGINIA TECH? Ive loved it ever since I was a little kid, I have a super good relationship with the coaches and I believe they can make me better! FAVORITE HOBBY/HOBBIES WHEN NOT PLAYING SOFTBALL? I love pickleball, working out, swimming, and hanging out with my friends! IF YOU COULD HAVE ANY NIL DEAL, WHAT COMPANY (OR COMPANIES) WOULD YOU WANT TO SPONSOR YOU? Bloom, Lululemon, Nike, Gatorade, Barstool Sports WHO IS YOUR FAVORITE SOFTBALL PLAYER? Isa Torres-She is so smooth on defense and so consistent hitting wise! I try to model my game after her by trying to stay composed and confident on defense and at the plate ** Edited by VTChip at 7/18/2026, 4:27:34 PM

Grace Swedarsky is a talented pitcher for the Louisville Lady Sluggers - Huecker/Norwood, competing in the Super division of the Southeast Fastpitch League. A member of the class of 2026, Grace has made a significant impact on the field and is committed to continuing her athletic journey at Virginia Tech. With her jersey number 30, she showcases her dedication and passion for the game every time she steps onto the diamond. Grace’s playing style is defined by her exceptional athleticism and competitive spirit. As a right-handed pitcher, she possesses a versatile skill set that combines power and precision, making her a formidable presence in the circle. Her advanced reads and situational awareness allow her to navigate challenging matchups, while her strong defensive instincts contribute to her effectiveness in high-pressure situations. At the plate, Grace demonstrates keen plate discipline, consistently making solid contact and driving the ball with authority. In recognition of her outstanding performance, Grace was awarded the AFCS All Tournament honor in 2023, highlighting her excellence throughout the tournament. Competing at such a high level in travel softball has helped her refine her skills and prepare for the next stage of her career. With her sights set on collegiate softball, Grace is eager to continue her development and make her mark at Virginia Tech. To learn more about her academic and athletic journey, visit her SportsRecruits profile. GET TO KNOW HER MOST MEMORABLE SOFTBALL MOMENT? My most memorable moment on the softball field was my sophomore year when my high school team won the state championship. I pitched the whole game and my team won on a walk off, 2-1. We got back to the school at 2am after the game and had a water balloon fight. MY STORY One of my first memories was playing Wii bowling with my family when I was 2. I started reading off all of the scores in the 100s and my parents were shocked. WHAT DO YOU WANT YOUR LEGACY TO BE IN SOFTBALL? I want to be known as a competitor who always gave it her all in the circle. I also want to be known for my fierce presence and how I never stopped working to improve. FUN FAMILY FACTS In 2024, my brother ran in the state finals for cross country. This past winter, my sister won state for her duet in dance. WHY DID YOU CHOOSE VIRGINIA TECH? I chose Virginia Tech because they have strong academics along with a great softball program. They are also known for hitting home runs, which will make my life as a pitcher easier. FAVORITE HOBBY/HOBBIES WHEN NOT PLAYING SOFTBALL? I enjoy crocheting. I have made lots of stuffed animals and blankets! IF YOU COULD HAVE ANY NIL DEAL, WHAT COMPANY (OR COMPANIES) WOULD YOU WANT TO SPONSOR YOU? I would have an NIL deal for Oakley sunglasses. WHO IS YOUR FAVORITE SOFTBALL PLAYER? Nijaree Canady is my favorite softball player because she is an inspiration to me. Her spin is so tight, making her pitches move so much, and it pushes me to try to get my pitches to do the same. I model my game after her because of my presence on the mound. We both have a calm demeanor, yet have “the eye of the tiger” mentality while pitching. She has amazing spin on her ball and it encourages me to work towards the same amount of spin and movement when I pitch. ** Edited by VTChip at 7/18/2026, 4:29:46 PM