While one outing on the mound in a softball game is enough to tire the arms of most pitchers, starting pitcher Caroline Miller '12 proved to be unfazed by the task.

On the last day of the ECAC Tournament on Sunday, May 13, Miller hurled the top-seeded Judges out of the consolation bracket and back into the championship with wins against Simmons College and Endicott College. Despite falling to Endicott in the title game that Sunday, Miller appreciated the confidence her coaches had during her collegiate career.

"I was honored to have the opportunity to pitch all three starts on Sunday," said Miller. "The situation was a rare one and the season was on the line at all times. I wanted them to feel as though I was confident and had all the faith in the world in them."

This confidence was on full display throughout the entire season. In 38 games, Miller earned a 17-9 record, posting a team-high 177 strikeouts and a 3.51 ERA. She also recorded a batting average of .340 and an on-base percentage of .320. Her 31 hits included eight doubles, one triple and six home runs. Miller's slugging percentage stood at a notable .608, good for third on the team.

Even despite her superlative season, Miller was disappointed to have the season end on a sour note.

"The loss was especially hard in that it was my final game, on my home field and with my incredible teammates," she said. "The love we have, though, for each other leaves me with no regrets."

Instead of focusing on her individual achievements, Miller preferred to cite the many accomplishments that have come from her time at Brandeis.

"I have learned numerous lessons over my softball career at Brandeis," she said. "When it comes to my team, I have learned respect and compassion in regards to working with people of different personalities."

She noted that the skills she learned through her career in softball will be invaluable for her future.

"In balancing softball and school, I have learned responsibility and gained the ability to prioritize my objectives," she said. "Most importantly, I have learned that beyond setting goals, the most important thing in the world is putting yourself in a position to achieve those goals."

The outgoing senior stated that the varied experiences of her time with the Judges paved the way for an unforgettable career.

"I would never change any experience, obstacle or success that I have achieved with my teammates," she said. "These girls have been the most important thing to me over the past four years. I am so grateful for them."

They were certainly grateful for her too.
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