Softball 11/18/2020 12:50:00 PM

Alumni Profile: Mallory Aldred

Mallory Aldred had her fair share of success while in the circle for the Canisius softball team during her four-year career on Main Street.

A native of Whitby, Ontario — an eastern suburb of Toronto — Aldred recorded 15 saves in 2008, which stands as the most by a Canisius player in program history and is tied for the most by a Division I pitcher in a single season. She still holds season records at Canisius in appearances (41 in 2008), and is tied for the fewest runs allowed (minimum of 70 innings pitched) with 23 runs in 89.1 innings. Her 21 career saves are the most in program history, 11 more than any other Golden Griffin pitcher. She is also one of only 10 players in Division I history to record 20+ career saves.

Other accolades for Aldred include nine shutouts in 2009, tied for the 2nd-most in a single season at Canisius. She also struck out 180 batters that year, the 5th-most in a campaign. She also threw a five-inning no-hitter against Youngstown State on March 27, 2009 — which was the last Golden Griffin no-hitter prior to last year's mercy-rule shortened no-hitter against Maryland-Eastern Shore.

Aldred, who is currently a registered nutritionist in Toronto, recently took time to speak with GoGriffs.com to reflect on her time at Canisius, who had the biggest influence on her at Canisius, and any advice she can offer to current, or prospective, student-athletes.

GoGriffs.com: When did you attend Canisius and what degree did you receive?
Aldred: I attended Canisius from 2005-09 and graduated with a bachelor's of science degree.

GoGriffs.com: How did playing softball at Canisius help shape you into the person you are today?
Aldred: As a student-athlete, time management was key to success on and off the field. Between practice, lift, conditioning, classes, and homework, my organizational skills were put to the test. Post-Canisius, I was thrilled to have had a smooth transition into "adult" life, and I really think that's in large part due to being a softball player. Being a student-athlete at Canisius provided me the tools to succeed both professionally and personally after graduation.
Mallory Aldred waits to deliver a pitch in an undated photo

Mallory Aldred waits to deliver a pitch in an undated photo

GoGriffs.com: What persuaded, or attracted, you to attend Canisius?
Aldred: As a Canadian, born and raised in Whitby, Ontario, with a strong value for family, I was certainly attracted to Canisius because I would still be fairly close to home. Having had my parents attend my games is such a special memory. Canisius also had a history of a very successful softball program, which I was thrilled to be a part of.

GoGriffs.com: Who had the biggest influence on you while at Canisius?
Aldred: That's a very tough question as Canisius was filled with amazing people who have made me into the person I am today. As a born competitor, I always wanted to impress my coach, Mike Rappl. He will agree that I did not put my best foot forward in my freshman year. However, he pushed me to make all the positive changes that I needed to be the best student-athlete I could be. Thank you, Coach!

GoGriffs.com: What is the most memorable memory, or memories, that you have of being a student-athlete at Canisius?
Aldred: I'll never forget winning the MAAC Championship my senior year (in 2009). The entire roster was mentally and physically exhausted but we all pulled together as a team, which made it that much sweeter to get the win.

Mallory Aldred celebrates during an undated photo

Mallory Aldred celebrates during an undated photo

GoGriffs.com: What advice do you have for current, or prospective, student-athletes at Canisius?
Aldred: This experience is going to be one of the most memorable times of your entire life. It's not going to be easy, but it will be worth it. You have an abundance of fantastic resources at Canisius, so please do not be afraid to ask for help when you need it. Also, congratulations on becoming a Division I student-athlete. It's something to be extremely proud of and it can take you very far in life!

GoGriffs.com: Do you have — or had — any form of contact with anyone within the softball program currently, or any of your former teammates?
Aldred: Yes! I made some of my best friends from Canisius. As a registered nutritionist, I also have worked one-on-one with some of my previous teammates and offer seminars to all of the Canisius athletic clubs to ensure they are fuelling their bodies properly to promote muscle repair, energy/endurance, stress management and a healthy immune system.

Mallory Aldred

GoGriffs.com: Having played softball collegiately, do you still have any involvement with the sport?
Aldred: Post-Graduation, I coached for a few years and played on a few lower-level club teams. At the moment, I am enjoying new physical activities such as running, triathlons, swimming, and long-distance biking. I do, however, provide personalized nutrition services to many softball players and teams.

Print Friendly Version