1. Why did you go into Coaching?
I went into coaching to impact the lives of my players through one of the greatest opportunities they have during their years in school; athletics. Competing in a sport gives athletes a hands-on way to learn about themselves and life in general. They learn to compete, build confidence, and work together to accomplish goals. It is through daily work, setbacks, trials, and successes that so much is learned. It is the joy of competition that provides such experiences. I have been a part of competitive athletics since I was a toddler and I love it. I hope to share my passion with those I coach.
2. What is the most memorable coaching moment you have ever had? (Does Not have to be softball related)
One of my most memorable coaching experiences was a tied basketball game with just ten seconds left. We drew up a play, ran it correctly, and scored the game-winning point! It was one of those competitive moments where everyone worked together, had faith in each other, and we came out on top.
3. What is your favorite moment from when you were an athlete either in high school or college?
My sophomore year of college I was fortunate enough to be part of an inaugural softball program. We were literally building the program from scratch. We took an old high school softball field and made it into a working field for the season. We began with cleaning out goat droppings in the dugouts, building a fence, and laying sod. Finally, it was time for the season. The young women I played with made the most impact on this journey. I like to say we were rag-tag and a little bit like “ A League of Their Own”. We came from all walks of life and schools. We had many ups and downs, but by the end of the season, we made it to the National Tournament and placed 7. It was a great opportunity!
4. What was the most embarrassing moment you had as an athlete or coach?
I remember playing softball when I was 11 or 12 and when I went to catch a fly ball I fell in what I thought was a huge puddle of mud. Unfortunately, my teammates quickly told me I smelled like sewer. The sewer had drained onto the field. It is one I will never forget-I believe we had many more games that day.
5. What's the funniest thing you have ever experienced as a coach, something that makes you laugh to this day?
My players were warming up for a basketball game and I saw my starting point guard say something to my assistant coach. The player quickly ran to the locker room. The coach came over and told me that the player….” needed to change his pants” if you know what I mean. Every time I think of that and that player I die laughing!!
6. What is the best excuse you have ever received from a player for not being at practice?
“I had to go dress shopping.”
7. What is your Favorite sports movie and why?
I have MANY favorite sports movies, but the one that comes to mind is the movie Rudy. I like this one because of the lessons it teaches about not giving up and working hard toward your dreams. Talent is important, but it is more important to go hard after what you want like Rudy.
It wasn’t his athletic ability that made him successful. He was a leader because of who he was and how hard he was willing to work, being an amazing teammate and the sacrifices he made to achieve his goals.
8. What is your favorite sports quote?
“Hard work is not punishment. Hard work is the price of admission for the opportunity to reach sustained excellence.”
Jay Bilas