"While I value Deborah as an indispensable member of the Harvard Softball team, I am most thankful for the care and support that Deborah has given me the past four years," Godfree says. "I can always count on Deborah to listen, offer wise advice, and make me laugh."

Saying Goodbye

Considering what she has given to the softball program over the past four years, Harvard should be indebted to her for years, but Abeles is incredibly grateful what softball has contributed to her life. Deborah carries herself with the same lack of pretension as your average freshman.

"Deborah has been a joy to coach, since she's the type of player that basically coaches herself," Allard says. "She always comes in early for practice and probably has the best work ethic on the team."

Her contagious smile has made her a favorite throughout Quincy House, especially the kitchen staff. She made sure to exchange pleasantries with the chef even after a grueling day of practice in preparation for the NCAA Regionals.

"Softball has been a great way to get a break from academics," Abeles says. "Also, I've met such an awesome group of people, which has definitely made it all worthwhile."

In less than a month, however, Deborah's career will be left in the Harvard record books and the stories passed along from Allard and younger teammates. Though professional softball is certainly an option for the perennial First Team All-Ivy League infielder, Abeles plans to return to California and work towards medical school.

The break from softball will also give Abeles the chance to pick up some old hobbies. She was forced to give up the cello, an instrument she has played since the third grade, due to a shoulder injury her sophomore year, and she has not been able to play much due to her hectic practice and game schedule on top of a full class load.