by Julia Cuttone
Q. How old were you when you first started playing softball?
I was five years old when I first started playing softball.
Q. What made you start playing?
I started playing when my parents signed me up for t-ball with all boys.
Q. What is your best memory throughout your softball years?
My best memory throughout my softball years is playing in the Williamsport tournaments. I loved the intensity of the games and how important each game was for the season. Winning and teamwork was crucial to our success as a team. I also loved seeing talented players all come together to represent our neighborhood.
Q. What is your favorite part about the game of softball?
My favorite part of playing is hitting. I love watching the ball soar through the air after feeling solid contact. I get a high whenever I drive the ball well off the bat.
Q. Tell us about your elbow injury and how you overcome it.
My elbow injury was definitely difficult to overcome. My doctor predicted my full recovery to be 2-3 months when it turned out to be about five months. I missed out on countless games and scouting opportunities for college since I had to sit out. It was also the first time in my life that I ever had a severe injury that put me on the bench. I had to do countless weeks of physical therapy and stretching to make the pain go away. I truly learned patience during my recovery process, and I am now in better physical shape and strength than before. I also learned perseverance by refusing to give up on my dream of being scouted by a college even though I was behind in the process.
Q. What is it like being a collegiate athlete?
Being a collegiate athlete is a huge commitment. It is truly a lifestyle. You have to focus on what you eat, how you perform in practice, how you lift, and how you focus on your mental health. It can be draining at times, but when you are successful in games, the reward is fantastic.
Q. How do you balance both academics and athletics?
I balance athletics and academics by not procrastinating my work. When my classes end for the day, I use my spare time before practice to review my notes, study, and complete homework in advance. I also communicate with my coaches on which classes interfere with the practice schedule, so if I have to miss practice, it is excused.
Q. Who inspires you most as a softball player?
My biggest inspiration is my Dad. Although he and I may butt heads at times, he always wants to see me be the best version of myself and as a player. He has coached me throughout my life, and I have learned endless lessons from him.
Q. What is your biggest accomplishment?
My biggest accomplishment was my junior season of high school. I hit several home runs and was a dominant hitter in Nassau County.
Q. How has softball made you into who you are today?
Softball has made me who I am today by teaching me discipline. I’ve learned how important it is to be on top of my schedule. You can’t fall behind as an athlete or your grades will suffer, which can jeopardize your spot on the softball team, which will upset your family. Today, I thrive on a strict schedule because I find it keeps me motivated and prevents me from being lazy.
Q. How have you stayed motivated during the pandemic?
I’ve stayed motivated during the pandemic by surrounding myself and training with other talented athletes across Long Island. Being in a group working out is a lot more motivating than doing it alone. I also have a personal trainer who has helped me tremendously in my strength and agility.
Q. What is your approach going into this year’s season?
My approach going into this year’s season is confident. As a collegiate athlete, you need to feel confident in your abilities, so they can shine through. I am excited to play with my teammates, especially after having my season cut short last year.
