Jan. 28, 2011
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By Carlyn Topkin
UCFAthletics.com
ORLANDO, Fla. (UCFAthletics.com) - Spring is almost here, which means the UCF softball squad is getting back in the swing of things. The Knights are looking forward to a great season led by a few fresh faces, which includes junior infielder Allie Jest (Stone Mountain, Ga.).
Jest has been hooked on softball ever since she was five years old. She remembers watching baseball with her dad and simply pointing to the TV during a baseball game and telling him she wanted to play `that.' Although she has tested her skills at basketball, soccer and ran track, softball is her true passion.
Jest transferred from Tallahassee Community College where she hit .423 with 74 hits, 14 doubles, three home runs, 38 RBI and 40 runs scored, while tallying a .451 on-base percentage and 25 stolen bases in one season with the team.
Why did you choose to play softball at UCF?
"I came here on my visit and thought that the campus was beautiful. We have one of the best facilities in the south and coach (Renee Luers-Gillispie) is really nice."
What does it mean to be a part of this team?
"As a team we are really bonded. We are a family here. We always have each other's backs and help each other. It's really helped me a lot because this is my third college, so I was nervous coming in. But, my teammates showed me around campus, around Orlando and why they enjoy it here so much."
What are you most looking forward to this season?
"Well our second game is against UCLA, so that's pretty unique. They won the national title last year, so it's probably the biggest game of our season. I'm just ready to play and steal some bases. I think it's going to be a good season. We have speed and we have power. We are looking pretty good."
What will be the keys to success this year?
"I think our offense is going to be our big key. We have great pitchers, we have defense, but I think we are going to have a tough time if we aren't going to be able to hit."
What do you like to do in your spare time?
"I love Photoshop and I love taking pictures."
Season tickets for the 2011 season are only $40 and are now available for purchase online at UCFAthletics.com and Ticketmaster.com, or by calling the UCF Athletics Ticket Office at (407) UCF-1000.
The Knights host their 2011 home-opener Feb. 16 against North Florida at the UCF Softball Complex. UCF head football coach George O'Leary will throw out the ceremonial first pitch for the contest, while the first 100 fans through the gate will receive a signed 2011 UCF softball schedule poster.