Agape Freedom Sports LLC

By Jeric Yurkanin – Agape Freedom Sports | Staff Writer | May 17, 2025

ARCHBALD, PA — Behind every elite athlete lies a story of doubt, determination, and dreams fulfilled. For Valley View’s standout shortstop Kalli Karwowski, that story is rooted in resilience—a journey from quiet frustration to national recognition and a commitment to Power 5 softball at Penn State.

“I didn’t get the calls or messages I had hoped for, and it shook my confidence,” Karwowski admitted. “I started to question if I was even good enough to play at the level I dreamed of.”

But a conversation with elite trainer Rob Crews changed everything. When Karwowski asked if she had what it took to play at the Power 5 level, Crews didn’t just say yes—he gave her direction.

He connected her with recruiter Rachel Coleman, who watched Kalli’s highlight reel and immediately offered her a spot.

That belief reignited a fire in Karwowski—and she hasn’t looked back.

.667 on-base percentage and .917 fielding percentage—well above national averages

Her combination of power, consistency, and leadership has not only put her on the radar—but on the fast track to greatness.

Finding a Home in Happy Valley:

With multiple D1 and Power 5 offers, it was the culture in Happy Valley that won her heart.

“The moment I stepped foot on Penn State’s campus, I knew it was home. The coaching staff, the culture, the energy—it was everything I wanted,” Karwowski said.

Though she hopes to earn her spot in the middle infield, she’s ready to contribute wherever needed.

“I pride myself on being a utility player. It’s about doing whatever it takes to help the team succeed.”

Fueling the Fire:

Karwowski isn’t shy about the grind that fuels her rise. Her motto?

“If you practice fast, you play fast.”

She puts in extra reps, trains at game speed, and focuses on the small details that build champions. Along with physical preparation, she’s embraced the mental side of the game—using tools like visualization, breathing control, and mindset coaching to overcome anxiety and self-doubt.

“Pressure is a privilege,” she said. “Now I have tools that keep me grounded and confident.”

Valley View Head Coach Mia Wascura says Karwowski’s mindset is what truly sets her apart.

“What separates Kalli from other athletes is her dedication and commitment to being a lifelong learner of the game of softball. She is always trying to better herself—whether it be going to the weight room, getting extra reps when we don’t practice, or watching and breaking down film,” Wascura said. “Kalli leads on and off the softball field. Her accolades, both academically and athletically, speak for themselves.”

More Than a Player:

A second-degree black belt in karate, and a mentor to younger athletes, Karwowski’s story is grounded in more than stats.

“My dad has been the rock of this whole journey—driving me across the country, pushing me in workouts, and teaching me how to lead. My grandma was my biggest cheerleader. My Poppi never misses a game. Their love and sacrifices are why I do this.”

Coach Wascura, who began her Valley View tenure after coaching at the University of Scranton, recalls Karwowski’s growth vividly.

“When I first got to Valley View, I was just transitioning from college coaching at the University of Scranton while starting as a counselor here,” she said. “Young Kalli was always a gamer. As she grew, she became more confident in her ability and in using her voice. She’s mentally, physically, and emotionally strong. She’d run through a brick wall if I asked her to. She’s the kind of teammate every coach dreams of.”

Wascura added: “Kalli is a game-changer for this program. Her presence has elevated overall team performance, boosted morale, and will continue to attract talent to Valley View. Penn State has no idea the player they’re getting—she’s one in a million.”

Respected by Rivals:

Karwowski’s impact extends beyond her own dugout.

“When I faced Karwowski, I knew she was a good player! The way she carried herself with such passion and confidence really gave it away,” said West Scranton’s Sophia Deluca.

“I had heard really good things about her and realized I needed to play to my best ability to level against her. You could tell that she had a real connection to the game—physically and mentally.”

Deluca, a freshman, says Karwowski set the tone for the entire league.

“She sets a prime example for athletes across the Lackawanna League. As a freshman, I look up to upperclassmen like Kalli—the way they carry themselves, how they play, and how they react to adversity. She’s a hard, dedicated worker.”

Leading by Example:

“It’s not about stats—it’s about finding ways to win. I want to bring energy, be a spark, and do the little things that make a big difference.”

Karwowski’s leadership is deeply felt by her teammates—especially younger players.

“Playing alongside Kalli is an absolute honor,” said sophomore teammate Cora Castellani. “Her energy and effort toward this team is what starts everything. She has an amazing impact—getting on base, making plays, cheering us on. There’s nothing like her.”

“There have been games where we didn’t start strong, but Kalli was always the one boosting our confidence,” Castellani added. “She’s a role model. I’m really going to miss her next year.”

Valley View Legacy:

Over four years, Karwowski has helped build something special with her Cougar teammates.

“We’ve grown up playing together and pushed each other every year. There’s nothing like chasing big goals with your best friends.”

That chemistry has powered Valley View’s high-octane 2025 lineup, one that’s drawn comparisons to the program’s past greats.

“This year’s team is loaded with power,” said Brittany Crawley, aunt of Valley View’s Division I Binghamton commit Taylor Cawley and a member of the school’s 2000 state championship team. “Kalli is the spark at leadoff—speed, power, hype. Every girl in that lineup can change a game with one swing.”

While the 2000 squad was known for scrappy, clutch wins, Crawley sees a different level of dominance in today’s Cougars.

Looking Ahead:

Valley View’s playoff run may soon end, but Karwowski’s journey is just beginning.

“Ten years from now, I hope people say I worked hard, loved my teammates, stayed humble, and always played with joy,” Karwowski said.

With grit, grace, and gratitude, Kalli Karwowski isn’t just writing her own story—she’s inspiring the next generation to believe in theirs.