March 7, 2024

By Jon Feyen
ScoutU

Maddy Pieper has been determined to play college softball ever since she started playing competitively at age 10. The 2024 left-hand pitcher from Minnesota throws a variety of great pitches in the circle, and she’s a versatile hitter. Recently, the ScoutU prospect announced her commitment to the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire.

UWEC, an NCAA Division III program, has piled up the winning seasons under NFCA Hall of Fame Coach Leslie Huntington. The Blugolds’ success includes 28 victories during 2019 and a national championship in 2008.

“What stood out about UW-Eau Claire was how welcoming everyone was, the beautiful campus and their strong business program,” Pieper said. “I always knew I wanted to play college ball, and I’m so thankful to receive the opportunity to keep playing!”

Pieper’s skills as a hitter include a 66 mph exit velocity. In the outfield, she can cover lots of ground and possesses a 62 mph throwing arm.

“I started helping Maddy late in her recruiting process the summer before her senior year,” ScoutU’s Jason Lauren said. “But with her 58 mph fastball, excellent movement and spin on her pitches as a lefty, I was confident she would get plenty of interest from colleges. At the plate, she is very versatile with the ability to swing away from the left side or slap. Maddy also has good speed with a 2.93 20-yard dash. I’m so happy she found a good fit at UW-Eau Claire, and I’m sure she will have a great career there!”

Even though she got a late start to the process, Pieper obtained multiple offers to continue playing softball. It helps that she holds a 3.7 GPA and has been nominated for Pride & Leaderships Awards at school.

ScoutU prides itself on advising athletes like Pieper and helping them earn all the opportunities they deserve. She added, “Ever since enrolling with ScoutU, I’ve had almost a hundred different schools from several different states reach out!”