Chances are former Freedom pitcher Juliana Presto is still pinching herself after her freshman-year success in the circle as an Arcadia Knight.

“It’s still crazy,” Presto said. “I never even thought I’d play freshman year. I didn’t know.”

Arcadia University softball coach Sarah Colletti wasted no time in playing Presto in the Knights’ season opener against DeSales University on March 13 at Blankley Field when Presto shined in relief with four strikeouts in two innings.

That same week, Presto was named MAC Freedom pitcher of the week.

“I remember thinking this is insane,” she said.

In April, Presto struck out 10 and allowed just one hit in five innings against Delaware Valley University, and by May, Presto was the MAC Freedom leader with an ERA of 1.31 and 112 strikeouts.

“I’m not a stats person, and I never expected that,” said Presto, who pitched a total of 23 games with six starts. “I was very nervous in the beginning, but I had the mindset to not get overwhelmed and stayed mostly straight-faced and calm.”

Just as exciting and satisfying to Presto were when her parents went to Glenside to see their daughter pitch once spectators were allowed to attend games, and when the Knights reached the conference semifinal.

“It’s a whole different atmosphere, playing in college. Everyone’s more into it and taking it to the next level,” Presto said. “Everyone wants to play, and everyone wants to win. It’s very competitive, and it’s fun to be around.”

The difference in Presto’s personal game since high school can be attributed to a lot of work with her tournament team and with former Patriot pitcher Kylee Schwind, who also played for Arcadia.

“I gained speed, focused more on spin, and my screwball and riseball had better movement,” said Presto, “and I’m excited for this year because we’ll have a fall season.”