During her time at Greensburg Central Catholic, Emma Henry made her mark on the Centurions’ softball program. Now, she’s making a similar impact at the college ranks, as she enjoyed a strong first campaign at Point Park University. Henry is under the microscope for this edition of the Westmoreland Alum Q&A.

Henry’s high school softball career began in dubious fashion, as the 2020 season was cancelled due to COVID.

However, she helped Greensburg Central Catholic reach the postseason in her sophomore season, as the Centurions went 11-5 in 2021, including 7-3 in section play. In the WPIAL Class 1A playoffs, the Centurions knocked off Ellis School, but fell to Union in the quarterfinals to conclude the season.

In 2022, Henry hit .596 with 22 RBIs, 16 runs, and a pair of steals, while also compiling a 7-3 record in the circle with an ERA of 2.09 in 63.2 innings, issuing 28 walks with 79 strikeouts. Her efforts helped GCC go 13-7 overall, including 8-2 in section play. Again qualifying for the WPIAL Class 1A postseason, the Centurions bested Leechburg Area in extra innings, but fell to Union once more, this time in the semifinals. However, GCC defeated Springdale in the consolation game, earning a berth in the state playoffs. The Centurions fell in the opening round against DuBois Central Catholic.

In Henry’s senior campaign, the Centurions achieved a mark of 14-6, including 8-2 in the section. In the WPIAL Class 2A bracket, GCC knocked off Bentworth and Charleroi, but came up short against Neshannock in the semifinals. However, Greensburg Central Catholic rebounded against Our Lady of the Sacred Heart in the consolation game. Qualifying for the state playoffs, the Centurions lost to Cranberry in the first round to end the campaign.

For her career at GCC, Henry was recognized as an All-State, All-WPIAL, and All-Section player. She garnered Division I interest, and opted to continue her softball career at Central Connecticut State University.

As a freshman outfielder, Henry played in 16 games in 2024, going 2-for-5 at the plate. Collectively, the Blue Devils went 28-19 overall, including 15-11 in the Northeast Conference (NEC). In the conference tournament, Central Connecticut State fell to Saint Francis, but rebounded with victories against LIU and Sacred Heart before losing again to the SFU to end the campaign.

After the season, Henry opted to return closer to home, transferring to Point Park University. Her first season with the Pioneers was impressive, as she played in 44 games, all starts, hitting .306 with 17 RBIs, 17 runs, and one stolen base. Point Park achieved a record of 17-30 overall, including 10-18 in the Mountain East Conference (MEC). In the conference tournament, the Pioneers lost to the University of Charleston, defeated Concord University, and fell to Glenville State University to finish the season.

With her first season at Point Park now behind her, Emma took time to respond to questions about what she learned during her season playing DI softball, her ideal future professions, and the best advice she ever received.

Q: You've had one of the best batting averages for Point Park this season. What has been key to your offensive success?

A: I would mainly say intention. In the past, I used to go in the box and think, "I hope I don't strike out." Now, I changed my mindset and think, "I want to hit the fences."

Q: What is an underappreciated aspect of playing the outfield?

A: Bonding with the other outfielders and feeling the chemistry of our outfield group.

Q: What team and individual goals did you establish for this season?

A: For the team, I really want to win the tournament, and I fully believe we can do it. For myself, I just want to show up for my teammates and do whatever is needed to help us win.

Q: What led to your decision to transfer to Point Park?

A: I liked the location in the city and it seemed like there was a lot of opportunity because of that. There is a lot to do and experience.

Q: What did you learn from your experience playing Division I softball?

A: That you have to focus on the absolute smallest aspects of the game to be successful. The majority of softball is mental. In order to play well, you have to be relaxed and confident.

Q: What is your major and ideal future profession?

A: My major is marketing and sales. I want to get certified to be a sign language interpreter, get into medical sales, and be a hitting coach, as well.

Q: What has been your favorite college course?

A: I really liked philosophy because it makes you really think. I liked the discussions about life and morals.

Q: What is your favorite aspect of being on campus in downtown Pittsburgh?

A: There is always something new to experience.

Q: What was your fondest high school memory at Greensburg Central Catholic?

A: Playing hide and seek in the whole building.

Q: Do you still follow Centurions athletics or WPIAL softball?

A: Yes, I love keeping up with all my old friends playing and seeing how they do.

Q: Which team did you consider your biggest softball rival at GCC?

A: Union.

Q: Do you use water, a sports drink, or something else for softball?

A: Water and an iced coffee.

Q: Who is your celebrity dream date?

A: Justin Bieber.

Q: What is the best advice you've ever received?

A: Give everything your all so you have nothing to regret, because you know you tried your hardest.