By Jon Feyen
ScoutU 

Gracie Turner had a fantastic support system throughout her recruiting process. Her parents were vital in driving to all her camps, games and school visits. She had ScoutU to connect her with coaches who were impressed with the 2022 outfielder. Gracie also picked the minds of former college players about what to look for in a future team. 

After doing all of her homework, Turner recently committed to Bryan College, an NAIA school in Tennessee. 

“I’m so excited to be able to live my dream and play softball for Bryan College,” Turner said. “I was lucky to have (ScoutU’s) Scott Woodcock and former players to ask questions about playing ball in college and their experiences. They all told me the same thing — figure out what you want out of the experience and find the fit that is right for you. Don’t make decisions based on whether the school is D1, D2, NAIA. I just knew in my heart that Bryan College was my fit.” 

Woodcock immediately recognized Turner’s ability to get on base (.606 OBP) and speed down the line. Turner tallied a .404 average, 44 RBIs and 21 stolen bases during the 2018 club season. 

“When I first saw Gracie play, I immediately recognized a gem of a player,” Woodcock said. “She had so much untapped raw talent and was hungry to put it all together. So much potential just trying to find her way and I knew she had to be one of the few I accepted to help. 

“I love the kids and families that aren’t wrapped up in the number that follows the D and simply want a quality education and the chance to play in college. Gracie had interest from all levels. With legit 2.65 speed, she could have played about anywhere on her speed alone.” 

But oftentimes, ability is not the only factor in college recruiting. The coaches have to know who you are, and know how to find you. 

“Coach Woodcock helped me choose which camps to attend,” Turner said. “My family and I would use these trips to tournaments to go check out schools. By visiting many schools and programs, I was able to figure out what was important to me. I really wanted a school that offered smaller classes and professors that would know me by name. I went to several camps at Bryan College and loved the coaches and players. But when I was finally able to spend a day on campus and meet the staff and students, I knew I was home. Bryan College has an amazing support network, from classes being filmed and online that I’d be able to watch when I was traveling with the team, to support finding a job when I graduate.” 

Bryan College is gaining an exciting player who also performs in the classroom, where Turner holds a 4.0 GPA. The Lions’ on-field resume includes 20-win seasons in five of the last six years. 

“With Scott’s help and support, I made relationships with a lot of programs and had these coaches at our exposures consistently,” Turner said. “I am thankful to have had Scott Woodcock and ScoutU to help me find my way and, without a doubt, the perfect school and program for me. Proud to be a Bryan Lion!” 

Woodcock said Turner was a great kid to guide through the recruiting process. 

“Gracie was a pleasure to work with,” Woodcock said. “She was one of those kids that truly embraced the ScoutU process and followed my outlined plan to a T. She did everything I asked her to do and took a very mature approach. Her parents, Jeff and Teresa, trusted my guidance and reinforced it with Gracie, giving the process some added boots on the ground so to speak. I am so proud of her and excited that she found her perfect fit.”