KINSMAN OH-  In the latest YSN player profile, Badger softball standout Samantha Bradbury shared insights into her impressive growth and the close-knit team culture fueling her success this season. Interviewed by host Anthony Hartwig, Bradbury reflected on her journey from freshman year to becoming one of the team’s statistical leaders as a sophomore. She attributed her improvement on the mound, in the batter’s box, and in the field to consistent daily effort and the strong foundation provided by her coaches and mentors.

Bradbury emphasized the transformative role that her pitching instructors, Brett Modic and George Gabriel, have played in her development. Modic and Gabriel, known for guiding pitchers whose daughters played Division I softball, have balanced fun with tough love, which Bradbury feels brings out the best in her. “He’s not too hard on you, but he tells you what you’re doing wrong and has fun with it,” she said of Modic, while noting Gabriel’s firmer approach helped her build speed and refine her technique. A core part of Samantha’s confidence comes from her relationship with her catchers. She described how their timely pep talks or jokes during mound visits help her reset and stay positive during games: “I like when they joke around a little bit, because it’s a little lighter.” Bradbury also gave credit to the Badger coaching staff, saying they help her understand the game better and always offer support.

Off the diamond, Bradbury and her teammates enjoy spending time together, bonding over postgame ice cream trips—her current favorite flavor is watermelon with sprinkles. Music is another motivator for Bradbury, who turns to pop artist Sabrina Carpenter for a pre-game boost. She also shared her preference for classic water as her refreshment of choice during games. Looking ahead, Bradbury has set her sights on sharpening her hitting skills and improving her mental approach to the game, vowing to “stay out of her head” in pressure situations. She is grateful to have inspiration and support from her parents, who she calls her biggest role models and supporters. As the season progresses, Bradbury’s work ethic, upbeat attitude, and strong support system position her as not just a leader on her team, but a player to watch in the Badger program for seasons to come.

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