Brookdale Community College softball standout Jillian Fay added another milestone to her remarkable collegiate career after being named the NJCAA Region 19 National Girls and Women in Sports Day (NGWSD) Female Student-Athlete of the Year. Fay was among 26 exceptional female student-athletes recognized at the inaugural Region 19 Women in Sports Banquet, held in February at Middlesex College in Edison, New Jersey.

The celebration honored outstanding achievements from the 2024–2025 athletic cycle, and Fay’s selection was a fitting tribute to an athlete whose excellence spans academics, athletics, and leadership. A two-year starting shortstop for the Jersey Blues, Fay has been a steady presence on the field, known for her competitive drive, integrity, and ability to elevate those around her.

Equally impressive is Fay’s academic record. She graduated with a perfect 4.0 GPA and earned numerous honors, including First Team NJCAA All-Academic, All-Region Academic Team, All-GSAC Academic Team, repeated Dean’s List recognition, and induction into the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society.

On the diamond, Fay’s accomplishments were equally distinguished. She was named Region 19 Softball Player of the Year and GSAC Softball Player of the Year, earned GSAC Player of the Week honors, and was selected to both the First Team All-Region and First Team All-GSAC squads. Her season culminated with NJCAA First Team All-American recognition and the prestigious Region 19 John Stauff Female Student-Athlete of the Year Award.

Fay’s recognition coincided with the national observance of National Girls and Women in Sports Day, celebrated on Wednesday, February 4. Now in its 40th year, NGWSD honors the achievements, leadership, and impact of women and girls in athletics while spotlighting the continued pursuit of equity and opportunity in sports.

Powered by the Women’s Sports Foundation, NGWSD recognizes not only athletes, but also the coaches, administrators, and advocates who have helped expand access and inclusion across all levels of competition. As women’s athletics continues to grow, the NJCAA now marking more than five decades of women’s competition remains committed to elevating the voices and accomplishments of female student-athletes nationwide.