This week, I had the pleasure of talking with one of the athletes of the week, sophomore Emily Zink from the softball team.
“The season has been great so far,” said Zink. “We have a winning season right now, knocking on wood as we speak, and we are planning for conference play. I did not know what to expect this season, with so many incoming freshmen and other factors, but we have exceeded all of my expectations.”
“Our team is strong,” Zink continued. “We are full of talent, and more importantly, we never stop fighting. I have always wanted to be a part of a team that has good chemistry and plays for each other, and this is it for me. I love my team, and I love the way we go out every game and compete.”
I followed up by asking about any standout players. “Our pitching staff is incredible,” replied Zink. “Whether it’s Josie Deatherage, Kaylee Strunk or Sidney Hansen in the game, I feel fully confident they are going to attack the batters and help us win the inning. Aside from defense, I think our offense comprehensively is strong. The top of the line-up gets us going, but the bottom of our line-up has clutched up for us many times. I think Moira Tinsley and Abby Moffit definitely make a difference, but overall, I think every day someone different steps up and helps us stay ahead.”
“I am honored to have been selected as Athlete of the Week,” said Zink. “I don’t know all of the different criteria that need to be met in order to be considered, but I think recently I have had a strong offensive performance. Last year, I was met with injuries and lots of frustration. After working hard during the summer and off-season, to have our team winning consistently and being able to contribute in such a way has made a difference to me. For me personally, I have tried to focus more on the team, having fun and putting all my worries into God’s hands. To be given an award like this means a lot, but also indicates that the path I am on is one I need to continue.”
Next, I asked about personal and team goals for the season. “Our team goal this season was to make it to the conference tournament,” answered Zink. “With nationally ranked teams in our conference and difficult competition in general, we knew it would be a battle. However, after all of our hard work, we have come out on top and are going to the conference tournament. My personal goal this season was to work hard and play the game like I know I can. Sometimes my nerves can get the best of me, so this season I wanted to focus on trusting my teammates and playing without fear. I would say that I have accomplished this goal, which is something important to me as well.”
Finally, I asked what she had to say to the rest of the student body. “I would tell the student body to come out and support girls’ sports,” Zink replied. “Even if you do not know about the sport itself, the atmosphere is fun, and we appreciate people showing up. Playing when you know your friends or peers came out to support you is a great feeling, especially when we are playing tough competition.”
Photo courtesy of AU Athletics.
