August 21, 2025

By Jon Feyen
ScoutU

A .400 batting average is an elite benchmark rarely achieved in sports. Last season, St. Joseph’s University (NY) hit .402 to lead all of NCAA Division III. The Bears recently took a step towards maintaining that standard with the commitment of Fallon Norman, who batted .403 this year for East Union High School (CA).

“I am extremely excited to have the rare opportunity to play at the collegiate level,” Norman said. “Since I started playing softball at 6 years old, it has been my passion and something that I’ve dedicated much of my time to. To be able to play softball in college is a lifelong dream of mine, and now it’s finally coming true. It is encouraging to see that all my hard work and years of commitment have finally paid off.”

St. Joseph’s has compiled 92 wins the last four years as one of the top offensive teams in the country. Norman chose the school for reasons beyond its strong softball history.

“The thing that stood out most about St. Joseph’s University was the family atmosphere of the team, coaches and campus,” she said. “Also, the prioritization of academics over athletics was another big contributor to why I felt comfortable committing there. I truly feel like my coaches and teammates will be there to support me in any way they can, and my coaches’ door will always be open to me and the rest of my teammates.”

During her recruiting process, Norman received emails from 40 college coaches and offers from seven different programs. ScoutU’s Susan Kemper could see the talent evident in her PGF Gold Glove award and her .542 slugging percentage.

“College coaches were drawn to Fallon for the complete package she brings to the table,” Kemper said. “She’s a high-level athlete with both physical and intangible qualities that make her stand out. Athletically, she’s a versatile dual-threat player with a strong pitching arsenal, power in the circle, and defensive strength at multiple positions. But beyond her skills, it’s her leadership, work ethic and character that truly separate her. Coaches value players who not only perform, but elevate those around them, and Fallon clearly does that.”

It’s nearly 3,000 miles from Norman’s hometown of Manteca (CA) to Brooklyn. But dedicated players are willing to go wherever it takes to achieve their college dreams.

“Susan helped with checking in and offering assistance when needed,” Fallon’s mom Gina said. “Our first call was so informative, and she reassured us that the ScoutU program definitely works. We received personalized emails from coaches within days of sending out our nationwide emails.”