COLUMBIA, S.C. — One day before the South Carolina softball team begins play in the SEC Tournament in Fayetteville, pitcher Rachel Vaughan has been named to the SEC Community Service Team.
A fifth-year graduate student, Vaughan is pursuing her master’s degree in special education, after earning her bachelors in sport entertainment management.
During her five seasons with the Gamecocks, Vaughan has been constant presence in the community. This spring, she spent time at Carver-Lyon Elementary reading to and interacting with students during Read Across America Day. Vaughan has worked with the local food bank, Harvest Hope, in packaging and handing out meals to those in need.
She has volunteered at the Claude W. Smith School, being a test patient for students to gain experience with bed side manners and sonography skills. Vaughan has helped build houses with Habitat for Humanity, working on two different housing projects, including repairing porches and installing insulation. She has also served as a mentor to students at Joseph Keels Elementary. During Christmas, Vaughan takes the time to write cards to children who are in the hospital.
On the field, Vaughan has appeared in 21 games this season, currently maintaining a 2.92 ERA. She is 2-1 on the season, striking out 25 batters in 38 1-3 innings.