Jan. 23, 2008
Orlando, Fla. (www.ucfathletics.com) - Leading up to the UCF softball season-opener against Illinois State on Feb. 8, UCFAtheltics.com will introduce fans to the Knights in a series of feature interviews. The series continues with freshman shortstop Brittany Hipple. The native of Venice, Fla., discusses the season, her teammates and her most embarrassing moment on the softball field.
With the season closely approaching, what are the team's goals for the 2008 season?
Make it into the Conference USA Championship and win it, so we can move on to Regionals. We also would like to win at least 40 games during the season.
What are your personal goals for this season?
To have at least at .350 batting average and make the least amount of errors as possible in the infield. I obviously don't want to make any errors, but if it does happen I want to keep the number down.
What do you see as this teams' biggest strength?
We have a lot of strengths. We have both a solid defense and solid offense and we are always working very hard. We all get along very well off of the field, so I think that will transfer onto the field when we play.
Which team on the 2008 schedule are you most looking forward to playing and why?
Definitely the Olympic team, just because of who they are.
Do you have any game superstitions?
I usually listen to the same song before every game. There is no reason behind it, but whatever one I pick I will listen to for the entire season.
What is your most embarrassing moment on the softball field?
I got walked in a game once and I put the bat down to jog to first base and I tripped over it. At the time we were winning by almost 20 runs. That was pretty embarrassing.
Who is the goofiest person on the team?
Probably Ashley Van Ryn. She has a different personality. She gets along with everyone but she can still be crazy at times too.
Who is the most motherly on the team?
Cat
If you could go on a date with any celebrity who would it be?
I wouldn't because I'm taken.
If you could be any T.V. show character who would you be and why?
Probably Lorelai Gilmore from the Gilmore Girls, because she is really outgoing and fun to be around.
What is one thing that most people don't know about you?
When I go back home I like to hang out with my family more than I like to go out with my friends.
The team will make its 2008 debut at the UCF Softball Complex when they host the UCF Tournament Feb. 8-10 facing-off against Illinois State, NC State, Kansas and Central Arkansas. Season tickets for the 2008 season are now available and can be purchased by calling 407-UCF-1000.
For the latest news and information on the Knights, tickets or apparel log on to www.ucfathletics.com - the official site for UCF varsity sports. Also check out UCFPhotos.com, the exclusive fan source for UCF action sports pics. -UCF-