Millis softball player endured 5 injuries, 4 surgeries 

If there was a national award given to a high school athlete for overcoming adversity, Emilia Leach would be a viable candidate to capture that honor.

The 18-year-old Leach, who’s in her freshman year at Endicott College, graduated from Millis High in June after four varsity seasons of softball. During those four years, however, she played only 34 games instead of what should have been about 88, counting playoff appearances.

What happened to Leach was unfortunate. And it was devastating, especially for a player who was the starting catcher as a freshman and well-known as a top-notch recruit on the club circuit. Five serious injuries and four major surgeries haunted her for four years. But she’s now looking forward to four healthy seasons on Endicott’s softball team.

“After my first at-bat against Norfolk Agricultural in my second game as a Millis freshman, I suffered a dislocated knee, a fractured kneecap, torn cartilage and ligament damage in my right leg,’’ Leach said. “I’m a power hitter who batted cleanup. I swung so hard, I fell in pain but still managed to get an RBI.’’

Leach’s sophomore campaign was a blessing because she finished the season uninjured for 19 games. She had a batting average of .424, hit two home runs and led the Mohawks in RBIs with 25. No sophomore jinx in year two.

Unfortunately, she played only seven games in both her junior and senior seasons, sidelined by two more knee operations and a torn labrum in her right shoulder. The two knee surgeries involved the same repairs that she underwent as a freshman. For her final knee surgery, doctors had to break her tibia to stabilize her kneecap.

Leach obviously is determined and understands perseverance. She personifies those qualities and could easily be the poster child for resilience.

“Determination is one of my strengths,’’ she emphasized. “I’ve got a high threshold for pain and as a kid my goal was to play college softball. The bumps in the road that I’ve experienced aren’t going to stop me. Injuries have also led me to be more spiritual.’’

A native of Millis, the 5-foot-6 Leach, who started playing softball as a six-year-old, says her grit is a result of the support and encouragement from teammates, coaches and her family.

“My mom and dad (Mike and Jen) and my brother (Hayden) are my role models,’’ she said. “My father is an assistant softball coach at Babson College and my brother plays baseball at Millis. My parents and other couples started the Firebirds, the local club team I played for.’’

Three teammates displayed lots of caring and provided emotional support for Leach during her lengthy ordeal. They include junior shortstop Molly Rand, senior pitcher Mia Vasta and UMass sophomore Riley Caulfield (pitcher).

“When I was injured, I still attended practices and games,’’ Leach noted. “Those teammates welcomed me and helped me stay involved. They were concerned but never doubted my ability to bounce back.’’

Millis head coach Brett MacGowan and James Lagos, an assistant coach in Leach’s junior year, also helped her to remain positive. “Coach MacGowan reminded me that I had a major impact on the team (captain as a senior),’’ she recalled. “He was down about my not being able to compete, and coach Lagos has been the go-to guy for support.’’

As Leach eagerly awaits the start of her rookie season for Endicott, her goals are all about health and averting injuries. “I want to be the healthiest I can be, I hope to start in the infield (third base) on opening day in March, and I want injuries and surgeries to be a thing of the past,’’ she said.

Endicott’s fall softball season, which involves practices and scrimmages with area schools, is currently underway. Leach, however, is unable to participate but hopefully will get the green light next March.

“My doctor says that my knee should be okay by March,’’ Leach said. “I should be ready for our exhibition games in Florida during spring break and for the opening of our regular season. I’ll have to play catch-up in the winter because I missed the fall season. Our coach (Katie Bettencourt) knows my history but she likes my resilience.’’

Another person who admires Leach’s resilience is Millis Athletic Director Derek Phinney. While sidelined, Leach often assisted Phinney.

“Despite a career riddled with injuries, Emilia’s unwavering determination shined, culminating in her commitment to play softball at Endicott,’’ Phinney said. “From devastating knee injuries, she endured setback after setback, often watching from the sidelines. Yet, instead of succumbing to frustration, she channeled her passion for the game into a different kind of contribution — calling pitches, helping during practices and moral support for her teammates.

“During her recovery, she became an indispensable asset to game operations. Whether managing the scorer’s table, efficiently handling ticket sales, or assisting with any task, her reliability and attitude made her a go-to for the athletic staff. Her journey, marked by physical and mental adversity, not only forged her resilience but also deepened her love for sports, ultimately leading her to achieve her dream of playing collegiate softball. My goal was always to prepare her for college and what comes next.’’

In spite of her adversity, Leach’s time as a captain was a plus. “I tried to lead by example and by being vocal and supportive,’’ she said.

Reflecting on her time at Millis, Leach points to a game last spring against Medway as very memorable. 

“We trailed, 1-0, but I tripled and drove in a run,’’ she recalled. “I then scored to give us a 2-1 lead that held up for a 5-3 win. The ball I hit traveled about 220 feet before hitting the fence. There was great energy and team chemistry for that game. My top thrill was being named a captain. And any time I made an appearance was always thrilling.’’ 

Relying on a competitive philosophy that focuses on winning, reaching her potential and having fun, Leach says: “I’m always grateful when I can compete.’’ 

Her trials have been difficult but Leach has learned valuable life lessons from athletics. “I’ve learned how to lead and how to be a good teammate,’’ she said. “Sports also teach how to accept responsibility and to be accountable.’’

An honor student, Leach compiled a 3.8 GPA during her four years at Millis High. She’ll major in exercise science in college and, not surprisingly, plans on a career as a physical therapist.

“Whether I was playing or sidelined, I was in physical therapy at least once a week during all four years at Millis,’’ Leach offered. “My current sessions will end later next month.’’

Although courageous and mentally tough, Leach admits that she worries about a re-injury. Her doctor said there’s a 50-50 chance of having an issue with her left knee. 

 “I believe I’ve been given this life (injuries) to help others,’’ she revealed. “I’m currently working with a company that helps people cope with all aspects of life, especially sports injuries. I share my story and provide wisdom. I also have an Instagram account [@grow.and.glow.w.meelz] to help and inspire athletes to deal with injuries.’’

Emilia Leach is a stunning example, not only for those hurting, but also for those who enjoy good health. She makes desire, dedication and devotion come alive.

Teammates, classmates and coaches at Endicott College are fortunate. They’ll get to know her in an up-close and personal way. And, it won’t take them long to discover that she’s a very special young woman.