From making a diving catch to clinch the KCAC Tournament Championship as a freshman to threatening the single season career home run record as a senior, Priscilla Mora’s impact on the Friends University softball program has been felt throughout her time on campus.
Mora’s journey as a student-athlete at Friends is a testament to her dedication, resilience, and the profound impact that athletics can have on personal growth.
From a young age, Mora dreamed of playing softball at the collegiate level, and Friends offered her the chance to turn that dream into reality.
A Life of Balance
Before coming to Friends University, Mora was a full-time student-athlete, balancing her academic responsibilities with her passion for softball.
She played for her high school team while also participating in travel ball, all while maintaining her grades and working towards her goal of being recruited to play at the collegiate level.
When Mora was recruited by the coaching staff at Friends , she knew she had found the perfect place to continue her athletic and academic journey.
The welcoming and supportive environment, along with the opportunity to play the sport she loved, made Friends the ideal choice for Mora.
A Second Home
Mora describes Friends University as a second home, a place where she has formed lifelong connections and built cherished memories.
The relationships she has developed with her teammates, coaches, professors, and friends have shaped her in ways she never expected.
Mora is grateful for the people who have been a part of her journey and for the lessons they have taught her along the way.
One of Mora’s favorite experiences as a student-athlete at Friends University came during her freshman year in 2022.
She made a diving catch in the ninth inning of the conference tournament championship game to seal the Falcons’ tournament title, a moment that she describes as indescribable.
The joy, excitement, and happiness she felt in that moment are emotions she will never forget.
But it’s not just the moments on the field that have made Mora’s time at Friends special.
It’s the relationships she has built and the memories she has created that hold a special place in her heart.
To Mora, Friends is not just a school; it’s a community that has become an integral part of her life.
Lessons that Last
Throughout her time at Friends University, Mora has been fortunate to have coaches who have made a significant impact on her life.
Coach Suz, (Head Coach Suzanne Unruh), who gave Mora the opportunity to play collegiate softball, has been more than just a coach; she has been a mentor and a supporter.
Coach Suz has taught Mora valuable lessons about life, reminding her that she is more than just her identity as an athlete.
She has pushed Mora to be the best version of herself, both on and off the field, and has instilled in her the importance of mental toughness.
Coach Brady (Walker), although Mora has had less time with him, has also made a significant impact on her life.
He has pushed Mora to go beyond her limits and has shown her that growth comes from persistence and a willingness to learn.
His dedication to the sport and to his players has left a lasting impression on Mora.
The lessons Mora has learned from her coaches go beyond the field.
They have taught her that success is not just about talent, but about effort, discipline, and mindset.
They have shown her the importance of resilience and accountability and have instilled in her the belief that the way you respond to adversity defines you.
These lessons will stay with Mora long after her playing days are over.
A Legacy of Dedication
As she looks to the future, Mora wants to be remembered as a student-athlete who gave everything she had on the field, in the classroom, and in her relationships with her teammates and coaches.
She hopes to leave behind a legacy of dedication, resilience, and passion, and to inspire others to pursue their dreams and never back down from a challenge.
Mora is grateful for the opportunities she has had at Friends and for the impact that athletics and education have had on her life.
She feels blessed to be a part of the Friends University community and knows that the lessons and experiences she has gained will continue to shape her journey in the future.
