ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED ON SOFTBALLAMERICA.COM
As Softball America grows its coverage at all levels, we continue our recruiting spotlight series with Gabi Novickas. Novickas is currently ranked 28th in our 2025 position rankings as the Chicago native is committed to the University of Georgia. Novickas is versatile in the corners at first and third and quite often comes in clutch as a big power hitter.
Name: Gabi Novickas
Primary Position(s): 1B/3BClass
Year: 2025Hometown: Chicago, IL
Travel Ball Organization: Beverly Bandits
What about Georgia did you love the most?
I chose Georgia because I loved that the coaching staff cares for you as a person and a player. They are always rooting for you no matter what. The family environment surrounding the team was a home away from home. I just knew right away Georgia was the place for me. Plus, I love the small-town feel of Athens coming from a big city, and the energetic student atmosphere with the strong academics is unbeatable.
What is your favorite travel ball memory?
My favorite travel ball memory was hitting my first-ever out-of-the-park home run on Mother’s Day. I was playing 11U at an Indiana tournament. During the previous games, I hit the fence twice. It was an accomplishing feeling getting to round the bases for the first time.
What’s the most important thing you’ve learned from a coach?
“The only person that can beat you is you.” This advice helps me realize that I should not hold back because of fear of failure, but rather push past my limits to reach my goals. It is up to me and the work I put in to strive for success.
How did you get interested in softball?
I was always surrounded by sports growing up with my brother. I tried every sport ranging from basketball to tennis when I was younger. T-ball at age four sparked my interest in the game. I eventually noticed that I was always choosing softball over everything else. Once I found my love for the game, it never went away.
What are your strengths as a player? What are you trying to improve on the most?
My strengths as a player are the power in my swing and my mental approach toward the game. I’m trying to improve on being more vocal on the field and footwork at first and third base.
What player(s) do you look up to the most?
I have always looked up to Alyssa Dicarlo. My hitting coach always sent me videos of her swing at Georgia and still does. Her power and smooth mechanics wowed me. I have been admiring the way she plays the game since sixth grade.
What are your favorite hobbies outside of softball?
I enjoy going to the movies with my family, hanging out with friends, and playing pickleball.
What excites you the most about playing college softball?
I’m most excited about playing the teams I have grown up watching. Getting the opportunity to compete in the SEC is a dream come true. I can’t wait to grow even more as a player with Georgia.
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