Auburn, ME - When Abby Ferland chose CM for the next stop in her educational and athletic career, it was because of the nursing program being one of the best in the state of Maine and most affordable. On top of that, she was able to continue her athletic career and play at a competitive collegiate level.
Abby has been a pivotal part in the making of the CM softball program. She has given every ounce of herself to the team and making herself and her teammates better. So far, she couldn't ask for a better experience at CM. "All of the staff members are incredible, supportive, and want you to succeed. However, the best part is by being a part of the athletic community at this college I have made many friends that have turned into my family," added Ferland. Her favorite moment as a student-athlete was when the softball team learned they had made it to the World Series National Tournament in the 2022 season and being able to experience that with her teammates and coaches. The Mustangs went into the 2022 World Series with a 22-10-1 record and were given the #5 seed for the tournament. The team continued their success this fall as they finished 10-0 including wins against NCAA DIII schools such as NVU-Johnson, Thomas College, and UMPI.
Ferland understands that time management is key to being a student-athlete. Student-athletes have to learn to juggle school, work, family, friends and all the aspects of being a collegiate athlete including study halls, practices/games, and strength and conditioning sessions. Her biggest advice to kids thinking about playing a sport in college is improving your time management skills. "I know this is drilled into your head by everyone you come across when you are in the college search, but is especially important when you are a student-athlete. Schedule when class is, schedule study time, schedule when practices and workouts are, but most importantly schedule some time for yourself," explained Ferland.
Heading into the Spring season, Ferland is looking to improve on all aspects of her game as she wants to end her final season of softball on a strong note. She will look to continue to lead by example as the team looks to build off the success of last season. "Currently, I am the captain of the softball team. Rather than being a very vocal leader (although I am when I am behind the plate), I try to lead the most by example. I try to exemplify this through playing positions where the team most needs me at that time, leaving problems that are outside of softball off the field, practicing like I play, but also balancing this all with having fun and keeping spirits up," said Ferland.
Head softball coach Bruce Robertson added, "Abby had not only stepped up for her first two seasons on the field, but she has now stepped up as a vocal leader as well. I am excited to see Abby lead this team and help take this team to the next level and build off the success we had last season." One thing you can count on is that captain, Abby Ferland is always having fun when she is on the softball field. This spring she will be soaking up the rest of the time she has left as a student-athlete and everyone here at CM will be cheering on her and the rest of the Mustangs.
Be sure to catch the CM softball team this Spring as they look to make another appearance at the USCAA World Series. They will open up this season at Mass. Maritime for a double-header before heading down to Myrtle Beach for a Spring Tournament.
