January 7, 2026

By Jon Feyen
ScoutU

After earning a division championship, winning a conference batting title and making the All-State Team, there was little else Nicole Dimarco could accomplish. The 2026 ScoutU prospect recently put a bow on her high school career by committing to California State University-San Marcos, an NCAA Division II program.

“After attending their camp in the summer, I realized it was my number-one choice,” DiMarco said. “I really like the area the campus is in. I also like how new the campus is and how it’s growing. The players and coaching staff seemed to have a good relationship, which was a big part of why I wanted to go there. The top thing I wanted in a school was location. I’ve always wanted to go to school in southern California. Lastly, San Marcos likes to recruit athletes – players that are in shape – and like to work on getting better all the time. I like playing with teammates who have those same goals as I do.” 

The Cougars finished last season ranked 15th in the nation with a 43-23 record. Now they’re adding a versatile player who can contribute both offensively (.476 BA last fall) and defensively.

“College coaches were drawn to Nicole because of her combination of athleticism, leadership and drive,” ScoutU’s Susan Kemper said. “What stood out most during her recruiting process was Nicole’s professionalism and persistence. She maintained strong communication, was proactive on social media, and always presented herself with confidence and maturity. Her coachability, positive attitude and support from her family made her a dream recruit – someone who will elevate any program she joins.”

DiMarco stood out from other recruits with a stellar junior year. She batted .675 during league play, made the All-State 2nd Team and led Cardinal Newman HS to a runner-up finish at the NorCal State Tournament.

“I am extremely excited for the opportunity to play in college,” DiMarco said. “For most of my life, I’ve been part of a softball family. I couldn’t picture myself without one in college. I am excited to compete for my college, and I feel blessed to have the opportunity to be part of the CSUSM softball family.”

Just 6% of high school softball players advance to play in the NCAA, and DiMarco is now part of that select group. ScoutU is proud to help these special student-athletes achieve their dream of competing another 4 years.

“Susan Kemper was always available, especially via text with any questions I had,” Nicole’s mom Natalie said. “That really helped with the anxiety of this whole process. She was also helpful at the end when I had some questions regarding the offers.”