Interesting on the early returns of some collegiate players who have decided that playing collegiately after high school might not be for them. Many reasons or combination of reasons, Not necessarily in this order, but could be...
* never really had the desire to play collegiately (but continued on their parent's insistence),
* collegiate coaches' personality not being a match with the player,
* commitment and loss of potential social time was more than they had thought,
* expectations of playing time, even though were only a freshmen was less than expected.
* practices and "work" was more than what was anticipated.
* did not seem to warm to the culture of the team mates
The above have been relevant for all levels D1,D2, NAIA, and D3. I would venture 30-40% of aspirants have or will quit prior or after their first year. Sort of unfortunate to see so many good and decorated players take off their cleats and have finished their softball careers. But, while they will no longer be playing, each of those players will continue to take with them very valuable memories and life lessons that will follow them for a lifetime. More favorable memories than perhaps the less than desired ending.
Good luck to all of them as they continue their collegiate education. Hopefully they had originally chosen the college/university for the education first and the softball opportunity second.