Brittany Gomez drafted, makes ISU history

Curran Mclaughlin

ISU softball senior Brittany Gomez became the first ever player in ISU history to be drafted to the National Pro Fastpitch league Thursday evening.

Gomez was drafted 28th overall and second in the fifth round by the Pennsylvania Rebellion. Her position was listed as a utility.

“I’m excited that I’ve been given this opportunity to see what I can do,” Gomez said in a statement. “Today, I’m just thankful that Coach [Gemeinhardt-Cesler] gave me this chance to play four more years and to play at Iowa State. I’m still speechless that it happened.”

Gomez plays second base, having made the switch to infield this season after playing outfield for most of her collegiate career. She is batting a team-leading .394 this season. She’s also tied for first in the Big 12 with 51 hits and leads the conference in stolen bases with 20.

Gomez’s name is littered in the ISU record books, holding single season records for hits (79), runs scored (50) and stolen bases (31).

Gomez is currently the all-time leader in batting average (.394), hits (274), runs scored (151) and stolen bases (106) and is continuing to build on those records this season.

Gomez has received honors on the National Fastpitch Coaches Association Division I All-Midwest Region First Team, All-Big 12 Second Team and All-Big 12 All-Defense Team. 

“I could not be more excited for her,” ISU softball Coach Stacy Gemeinhardt-Cesler said in a statement. “She has worked so hard and it’s absolutely wonderful to see her dream come true. We can’t wait to see her play for the Rebellion. She has been a true leader, as well as an unbelievable player, in our program.”

Gomez was also granted the honor of representing her country last summer, playing outfield for the U.S. Women’s Baseball National Team in the 2015 Pan-American Games.

Gomez helped Team USA achieve the gold medal, beating Canada 11-3 in the finals.