When the latest freshman baseball recruit stepped onto the Rivier University campus, the Raiders received a prospect unlike any they’d ever had on their roster. The 5-foot-10 catcher had a pedigree which included playing for a national team against top competition from around the globe including Puerto Rico, Mexico and Nicaragua.

The recruit, who hailed from just outside Vancouver, British Columbia, had spent part of the summer playing at an elite MLB endorsed invitational in Dallas’ Global Life Field, was a touted multi-talented athlete who not only was capable of playing behind the plate, but able to effectively pitch as well.

That wasn’t what made the 18-year-old unique. It also wasn’t the fact that they had played so brilliantly they caught the attention of an MLB scout who recommended to a long-time coaching friend that he check out video and make a spot on his roster.

What made this recruit special was the long, golden pony-tail which emerged from the back of her ball cap and was frequently found flung over her left shoulder. The Raiders’ newest recruit was Marika Lyszczyk, the first female catcher in collegiate baseball.

In this edition of the 123 Inning Pod I talk with Marika and her journey to become the first female player in the NCAA.