Sarasota Athlete of the Week: Gemma Mulhollen

Sarasota softball has followed last season's FHSAA Class 7A state semifinalist finish with an undefeated start. As of March 8, the Sailors are 5-0, and have scored 64 runs against 20 allowed. Junior pitcher/outfielder Gemma Mulhollen has commanded the circle, owning a 1.24 ERA through 22.2 innings pitched. She's struck out 28 batters and surrendered only four earned runs on 19 hits. Mulhollen is the Sarasota Athlete of the Week.

What has gone behind your strong start in the circle?

We've been trying to mix up pitches a lot this season. I've learned two more since last season, so I'm just trying to keep batters off-balance.

Why has this team been successful thus far?

A lot of us care a lot, and we all want to play at next level. The love for the game is also very present with all of us.

What do you enjoy about competing with this group of girls?

We're all really close, and so we all get along very well — the bond is very good. We've all been playing together since we were little kids, so that helps a lot.

What are your goals for your junior season with Sarasota?

I definitely think we can make it back to states this year, which is a big goal for all of us. For me personally, by the end of this year, I'd like to be committed somewhere for college.

When and why did you start playing softball?

I started playing softball when I was 4, and I didn't start pitching until I was 13. I needed to do something with my time, and my parents were very sports-oriented, so they just put me in the sport.

Why have you stuck with the sport after all these years?

(I love) how competitive it is. It's also a game of failure, so it's hard at times, but it's very rewarding when you're doing (well).

What quote or piece of advice have you always carried with you?

"The mental part of the game is way bigger than your physical skills." Definitely with pitching, it's all in your head, and you have to be mentally tough to be able to do (well in the circle) and anywhere in the field.

If you could meet any professional athlete, who would you meet and why?

She plays college, but I'd want to meet (Tennessee softball pitcher) Karlyn Pickens, because we're both similar and she's really good. 

What's a fun fact about you not many people know?

I'm in nursing school right now to get my CNA license. I started in August (2025), so I'll get it by the end of the May. 

Finish this sentence. Gemma Mulhollen is...

Competitive.