Liberty University 2008 Softball Roster

Transcription

1 2008 SOFTBALL ROSTER Liberty University 2008 Softball Roster Alphabetical Roster No. Name Pos. B/T Year Ht. Hometown/High School (Previous School) 4 Beth Bennett B R/R Jr. 5-8 Powhatan, Va./Powhatan 33 Leah Cossentino UTL R/R Fr. 5- Marriottsville, Md./Glenelg 5 Amber DePasquale UTL R/R Fr. 5-4 The Woodlands, Texas/The Woodlands 22 Jenna Eatmon UTL R/L Fr. 5-6 Emerald Isle, N.C./Croatan 2 Sarah Ellis RHP R/R Jr. 5- Perry, N.Y./Perry Central 0 Miranda Fielder OF R/R Jr. 5-7 Tazewell, Va./Tazewell (Bluefield) 2 Cassie Hendrix INF L/R Fr. 5-6 Indianapolis, Ind./North Central J nae Jefferson INF R/R So. 5-4 Barboursville, W.Va./Cabell Midland 2 Courtney Johnson 3B R/R Jr. 5-7 Concord, Calif./Berean Christian 9 Elena Lampman OF L/L Fr. 5-3 Vancouver, Wash./Ryle 6 Jessica Leary OF R/R Jr. 5-7 North Plainfield, N.J./Timothy Christian Shannon McKain OF R/R Sr. 5-9 Hacienda Heights, Calif./Los Altos 23 Keely McMillon C R/R Fr. 5-5 Vermontville, Mich./Lansing Catholic 8 Tiffani Smith RHP L/R Fr. 5-7 Hanover, Pa./South Western 3 Dana Wheeler LHP R/L So. 5-4 Pataskala, Ohio/Watkins 4 Ashley Williams C R/R Sr. 5-7 Lilburn, Ga./Brookwood Numerical Roster No. Name Pos. B/T Year Ht. Hometown/High School (Previous School) J nae Jefferson INF R/R So. 5-4 Barboursville, W.Va./Cabell Midland 2 Sarah Ellis RHP R/R Jr. 5- Perry, N.Y./Perry Central 3 Dana Wheeler LHP R/L So. 5-4 Pataskala, Ohio/Watkins 4 Beth Bennett B R/R Jr. 5-8 Powhatan, Va./Powhatan 5 Amber DePasquale UTL R/R Fr. 5-4 The Woodlands, Texas/The Woodlands 6 Jessica Leary OF R/R Jr. 5-7 North Plainfield, N.J./Timothy Christian 8 Tiffani Smith RHP R/R Fr. 5-7 Hanover, Pa./South Western 9 Elena Lampman OF L/L Fr. 5-3 Vancouver, Wash./Ryle 0 Miranda Fielder OF R/R Jr. 5-7 Tazewell, Va./Tazewell (Bluefield) Shannon McKain OF R/R Sr. 5-9 Hacienda Heights, Calif./Los Altos 2 Courtney Johnson 3B R/R Jr. 5-7 Concord, Calif./Berean Christian 4 Ashley Williams C R/R Sr. 5-7 Lilburn, Ga./Brookwood 2 Cassie Hendrix INF L/R Fr. 5-6 Indianapolis, Ind./North Central 22 Jenna Eatmon UTL R/L Fr. 5-6 Emerald Isle, N.C./Croatan 23 Keely McMillon C R/R Fr. 5-5 Vermontville, Mich./Lansing Catholic 33 Leah Cossentino UTL R/R Fr. 5- Marriottsville, Md./Glenelg Head Coach: Assistant Coach: Graduate Assistant: Paul Wetmore (5th season, career coaching record) Tuesday Van Engen (fifth season) Joanna Hardin (first season) MEDIA GUIDE 5

2 ROSTER BREAKDOWN 2008 SOFTBALL California (2) Concord Courtney Johnson Hacienda Heights Shannon McKain Georgia () Lilburn Ashley Williams Lady Flames by State Indiana () Indianapolis Cassie Hendrix Maryland () Marriottsville Leah Cossentino 2 2 Michigan () Vermontville Keely McMillon New Jersey () North Plainfield Jessica Leary New York () Perry Sarah Ellis North Carolina () Emerald Isle Jenna Eatmon Pennsylvania () Hanover Tiffani Smith Ohio () Pataskala Dana Wheeler Texas () The Woodlands Amber DePasquale Virginia (2) Powhatan Beth Bennett Tazewell Miranda Fielder Washington () Vancouver Elena Lampman West Virginia () Barboursville J nae Jefferson SOFTBALL 6

3 2008 SOFTBALL PLAYER PROFILES # Shannon McKain 5-9, Sr. OF, R/R Los Altos HS Hacienda Heights, Calif. Career: Ranks tied for fourth in program history with seven triples needs just three more home runs and 7 at bats to crack the Lady Flames Top 5 career rankings (Jr.): Big South second-team all-conference honoree played in 55 games, starting 54 ranked fourth on the squad with a career-best.320 batting average also posted career figures in runs scored (24), hits (54), doubles () and sacrifice hits (9) ranked fourth on the team in runs scored, hits, doubles and total bases (84) tied career numbers from her freshman year in total bases and slugging percentage (.497) tied for the team lead with two triples started the season out riding a six-game hitting streak, which was the fourth longest on the team during the year ranked fifth on the squad with 7 multiplehit games 2-for-3 with two RBI in Liberty s 4-3 victory over No. 23 Hawaii at the Bank of Hawaii Invitational 2- for-3 with a run scored and a double against No. 25 California at the Women4Women Invitational 2-for-4 with a double against Coastal Carolina in the opening round of the Big South Softball Championship (So.): Started all 64 games one of four players to start all 64 games tied for third on the team with seven home runs tied for fifth on the squad with eight doubles tied for seventh on the team with 6 runs scored ranked fifth on the team with 2 RBI and a.382 slugging percentage third-most patient player on the squad by drawing 9 walks on the season tied for the team lead with four outfield assists posted five multiple-hit and multiple-rbi games throughout the course of the year recorded an eight-game hitting streak on the year, marking the fourth-longest streak on the squad drove in the game-winning run in Liberty s 4-3 victory over UNC Wilmington, helping the Lady Flames claim the title at the Seahawk Classic -for-4 in Liberty s upset victory over Stetson -for-2 with a solo run home run against No. 2 Tennessee -for-4 with a two-run homer in Liberty s -2 win over Hampton -for-3 with a solo home run against Radford at the Big South Championship (Fr.): Started all 54 games in center field as a true freshman had a breakout rookie season as she finished third on the team with a.284 batting average ranked second on the team with seven home runs, four triples and a.497 slugging percentage third on the squad with 9 runs scored and 29 RBI tied for third with seven doubles ranked second on the team with 3 multiple-hit games and tied for second with seven multiple-rbi contests her four triples on the season tied for the ninth-most triples in a single season in school history tied for the fourth longest hitting streak of the year as she hit safely in six-straight games hit safely in 36 out of 54 games 3-for-4 with a RBI against Charlotte at the 49er Classic 2-for-2 with a RBI in Liberty s upset victory over 25th-ranked Texas A&M Corpus Christi 2-for-4 with a run scored and a double against Texas Tech at the Lobo Classic 2-for-4 with five RBI and two home runs against Binghamton. Prep: Graduated from Los Altos High School four-year letterwinner Miramonte League Rookie of the Year as a freshman two-time Conqueror of the Year award winner, which is given out to the team s most valuable player first-team Miramonte League and San Gabriel Valley Tribune as a senior, while being named the Los Altos High School Female Athlete of the Year recipient of the Miramonte Five Award, the Patrick Mauch Scholarship and the City of Irwindale Education Foundation Scholarship as a senior also a two-year member of the varsity basketball team. Personal: Daughter of Michael and Sandy McKain majoring in sport management birthday is on Sept. 24. Up Close with Shannon McKain sport? Hitting a home run off No. 2 Tennessee. Share something that people don t know about you? I m a pretty emotional person. My first car was a 989 GMC Jimmy. If you could be somebody else for a day, who would you be and why? My brand new nephew, Noah, because all he does is sleep and eat. What a life! After graduation I would like to work for the Anaheim Angels in their Public Relation or Marketing departments. What are four or five things you could not live without? God s grace, God s mercy, God s forgiveness, the Bible and food/water. If I won a million dollars, I would hire a financial advisor. Inside the Numbers with Shannon McKain Year Avg GP GS AB R H 2B 3B HR RBI TB SLG% BB HBP SO OB% SF SH SB ATT PO A E FLD% TOTAL MEDIA GUIDE 7

4 PLAYER PROFILES 2008 SOFTBALL SOFTBALL #4 Ashley williams 5-7, Sr. C, R/R Brookwood HS Lilburn, Ga. Career: Enters the season ranked third in program history in career hits (96), RBI (40), doubles (39) and home runs (33) ranks fifth in career at bats (587) (Jr.): Big South second-team all-conference honoree VaSID first-team all-state honoree broke into several school single season Top 0 lists, including fourth in at bats (205), seventh in home runs (3), tied for eighth in doubles (4) and eighth in hits (72) finished the season ranked third in the Big South in slugging percentage (.60), tied for third in doubles, fourth in home runs and fifth in total bases (25) posted career numbers in batting average (.35), runs (33), hits, slugging percentage, walks (5) and onbase percentage (.404) led the squad with 4 games with multiple RBI ranked second on the team with 22 multiple-hit games, including six with three or more hits hit safely in 43 out of 62 games (69.4 percent) had the third-longest hitting streak on the team during the year at seven-straight games tied a school record with four hits against No. 25 California, going a perfect 4-for-4 from the plate with a run scored, three RBI and a double against the Golden Bears -for-3 with a double, while driving in both runs to help Liberty to a 2-0 shutout victory over No. 6 Michigan named Big South Co-Player of the Week on March 26, following her performances against California and Michigan set a team season high with six RBI, while going 2-for-4 with two runs scored and two home runs in a 7-2 Big South win over Winthrop (So.): Big South second-team all-conference selection named to the Big South all-tournament team VaSID first-team all-state honoree Big South Player of the Week on March 3 started all 64 games one of just four players on the squad to start all 64 games 63 starts behind the plate and one as the designated player set a new school record with 6 RBI broke into the school s top 0 single-season list in several different categories as her 25 at bats ranks third, her 4 home runs ranks sixth, her 7 hits is tied for sixth and her 4 doubles ranks eighth ranked third on the team with 2 multiplehit games led the squad with 7 multiple-rbi games, including eight contests with three or more RBI hit safely in 46 out of 64 games (7.9 percent) led the Big South in RBI ranked second in the Big South in at bats ranked third in the league in hits, home runs and total bases (29) 2-for-4 with four RBI and a home run in Liberty s 6-5, upset victory over 24th-ranked Virginia Tech (Fr.): Big South second-team all-conference named Liberty s Rookie of the Year after a stellar freshman campaign ranked second on the team with a.37 batting average and doubles her 32 RBI ranked second on the squad and 2th in school history for a single season ranked third on the team with six home runs and a.49 slugging percentage ranked third on the team with multiple-hit games and tied for second on the squad with seven multiple-rbi games hit safely in 36 out of 54 games saw playing time in all 54 games, starting 53 contests had the team s longest hitting streak of the season at nine games. Prep: Graduated from Brookwood High School four-year starter all-state, all-county and all-area honoree finished her junior season batting.3 with 2 RBI and two home runs during the summer of 2002, helped the Georgia Fire Gold to a 76-6 record and a 33rd-place finish at the ASA National Tournament as she finished second on the team with a.346 batting average, 32 RBI, two home runs and a.59 slugging percentage. Personal: Daughter of Jeffrey and Patricia Williams majoring in criminal justice would like to attend law school after graduation and pursue a career as a criminal prosecutor birthday is on Dec. 20. Up Close with Ashley Williams sport? Breaking the single season RBI record at Liberty and getting the final RBI off of Radford s Ashley Taylor. What has been your defining moment as an athlete? Hitting a home run off of Tennessee s Monica Abbot. If you could change one rule in your sport, what would it be and why? I d change the number of strikes in an at-bat to four. That way there would be fewer strikeouts. After graduation I would like to attend law school. If you could compete in any sport against any athlete, who would it be and why? Randy Johnson, so I could whiff one of his fastballs! Inside the Numbers with Ashley Williams Year Avg GP GS AB R H 2B 3B HR RBI TB SLG% BB HBP SO OB% SF SH SB ATT PO A E FLD% TOTAL

5 2008 SOFTBALL PLAYER PROFILES #4 beth bennett 5-8, Jr. B, R/R Powhatan HS Powhatan, Va (So.): Named to the Big South Presidential Honor Roll named to the Dean s List started all 62 games at first base ranked fifth on the squad with a.233 batting average also ranked fifth on the team with 6 runs scored and 0 doubles hit a career high four home runs to rank seventh on the squad in the statistical category also recorded career highs with a.360 slugging percentage and a.986 fielding percentage ranked fourth on the squad with seven multiple RBI games fifth with seven multiple hit games, including two three-hit games was a combined 5-for-6 with two runs scored, three RBI, two doubles and a home run in a doubleheader against Gardner- Webb 3-for-3 with a run scored, four RBI and a home run in an 8-0 victory over Fairfield hit a three-run homer in Liberty s 7-3 victory over Rutgers, helping Liberty secure a third-place finish at the Tar Heel Invitational hit a tworun home run against Pacific at the Hawaiian Airlines Spring Fling Tournament 2-for-4 against No. 4 Oregon State at the Hawaiian Airlines Spring Fling Tournament -for-2 with a two-run triple during Liberty s 4-2 victory over Nevada at the Bank of Hawaii Invitational -for-4 with a run scored and a RBI against No. 25 California at the Women4Women Invitational 2-for-3 with a double in Liberty s upset victory over No. 6 Michigan at the Women4Women Invitational set a new school record with 6 putouts in Liberty s 7-2 victory over Charleston Southern, completing a three-game conference sweep of the Bucs (Fr.): Named to the Big South Presidential Honor Roll named Liberty s Rookie of the Year Big South Player of the Week on April 24 started all 64 games at first base for the Lady Flames one of only four players to start all 64 games posted a solid rookie season as she cracked three single-season top 0 categories finished the year ranked eighth in at bats (95), 0th in RBI (38, which now ranks 2th) and tied for 0th in walks (24, which now ranks th) ranked fourth on the squad with a.277 batting average tied for fifth with eight doubles sixth with 20 runs scored and a.364 slugging percentage third on the squad and fifth in the Big South in RBI led the team with three sacrifice flies and was third with six sacrifice hits posted the fifth-longest hitting streak on the year at six-consecutive games also made two appearances in the pitcher s circle during the year 2-for-4 with two RBI in her first collegiate game against Stony Brook -for-2 with two runs scored and a solo home run in a 5-0 win over UMBC at the Seahawk Classic 2-for-4 with two RBI against St. Francis (N.Y.) at the Pirate Clash hit a solo homer to help Liberty complete a home doubleheader sweep over Mount St. Mary s hit a two-run homer in Liberty s upset victory over Stetson tied a then school record with 5 putouts to help Liberty to a 2- upset victory over Iowa State, propelling the team into the championship game of the Bethune-Cookman Spring Break Classic 3- for-4 with a double and two RBI in Liberty s Big South victory over Coastal Carolina. Prep: Graduated from Powhatan High School four-year letterwinner four-time first-team All-District honoree was named the All-District Pitcher of the Year her sophomore, junior and senior seasons second-team all-region and honorable mention all-state as a sophomore named to the second-team all-state squad as a junior and senior participated in the VHSL All-Star game as a senior alldistrict honoree in volleyball as a senior named Powhatan High School s Female Athlete of the Year as a senior member of the National Honor Society and the Honor Roll. Personal: Daughter of Matt and Nancy Bennett majoring in kinesiology and education would like to pursue a career as a physical education teacher after graduation birthday is on Nov. 2. Up Close with Beth Bennett My first car was a white Toyota Celica, and I still have it. After graduation I would like to anything in the fitness realm, as well as, something in the ministry. If you could compete in any sport against any athlete, who would it be and why? I would compete in football against the Dallas Cowboys and Terrell Owens, so I could embarrass the tar out of them. Who is your favorite athlete on your team to watch compete (and why)? Courtney Johnson, because she does lots of funny things. If someone would look at the songs on my ipod, I would be embarrassed for them to see I have this song none, I have good taste! The first thing people notice about me when they meet me is my smile, it is huge. Inside the Numbers with Beth Bennett Year Avg GP GS AB R H 2B 3B HR RBI TB SLG% BB HBP SO OB% SF SH SB ATT PO A E FLD% TOTAL MEDIA GUIDE 9

6 PLAYER PROFILES #2 Sarah ellis 5-, Jr. RHP, R/R Perry Central HS Perry, N.Y (So.): Finished the year with a 2-8 record to go along with a 3.5 ERA led the squad, set a new school record and finished the year ranked No. 9 nationally with four saves also led the squad with nine complete games made a team-high 40 appearances, including 20 starts also led the squad with 5.0 innings pitched ranked second on the team with a career-high 92 strikeouts, helping Liberty set a school record with 392 total team strikeouts struck out a career-high batters to lead Liberty to a 5-3 victory over Appalachian State in the season opener scattered seven hits and allowed two unearned runs in a 6-2 win over Kennesaw State at the KSU Classic posted her third-highest strikeout total of the year with six, while allowing two earned runs on four hits during a 7-3 victory over Rutgers at the Tar Heel Invitational scattered six hits over three innings of relief work to pick up the victory over Pacific at the Hawaiian Airlines Spring Fling Tournament later in the tournament, she allowed two hits over two innings of relief work to pick up her first save against Pacific allowed just one run on two hits during a complete-game -0 loss to No. 25 California at the Hawaiian Airlines Spring Fling Tournament came in to get the final out to secure a save against No. 0 Baylor at the Women4Women Invitational scattered seven hits and struck out three batters to lead the Lady Flames to a 2-0 shutout victory over No. 6 Michigan at the Women4Women Invitational, marking the highest-ranked opponent the squad has defeated in program history struck out 0 batter in a complete-game victory over Hampton at the Blue Ridge Thunder tournament surrendered two hits and struck out one over two scoreless innings of relief to pick up a save in a 7-2 victory over Winthrop allowed one run on seven hits, while striking out three to lead Liberty to a 4- Big South win over Charleston Southern SOFTBALL pitcher in school history also ranked sixth among Liberty s all-time freshman pitchers with nine wins made three plate appearances during the year struck out eight and scattered two hits in an 8-, complete-game win over Hampton at the Seahawk Classic in her first collegiate start fanned three in three scoreless innings of relief work against East Carolina scattered six hits and struck out six in a 3-, complete game win over Delaware at the Pirate Clash picked up her first collegiate shutout as she allowed four hits in seven innings of work, while fanning five batters in a 7-0 win over Mount St. Mary s struck out three and allowed four hits in a 6- complete-game victory over host Bethune-Cookman at the Bethune-Cookman Spring Break Classic scattered six hits and allowed just one earned run to pick up the victory in Liberty s 6-5 upset win over 24th-ranked Virginia Tech. Prep: Graduated from Perry Central High School fouryear letterwinner four-time all-league team honoree named Section V Class CCC Most Valuable Player as a freshman selected as the Livingston County News Softball Player of the Year during her junior and senior seasons fourth-team all-state honoree as a junior was named the Birds Eye Foods Softball Player of the Year as a senior when she finished the season with a 2-2 overall record and a 0.40 ERA was also a three-year letterwinner in basketball named to the High Honor Roll. Personal: Daughter of Ron and Anne Ellis majoring in kinesiology birthday is on May 6. Up Close with Sarah Ellis sport? Wow where to start. I ve got a few, starting with my first no-hitter ever (in little league) AND beating Michigan last year! My first car was IDA MAE! I love my Buick - she is a sturdy one Buick LeSabre in baby blue. If you could change one rule in your sport, what would it be and why? No intentional walks - they re lame. After graduation I would like to... be a strength and conditioning coach for a NCAA Division I athletics program. My craziest ambition in life is to be on Jeopardy. I love useless and random trivia! SOFTBALL 2006 (Fr.): Posted a banner year as a freshman pitcher ranked third on the team with a 2.7 ERA, nine wins, 2 starts, six complete games, 85. innings pitched and 59 strikeouts posted a victory in seven out of her first nine starts posted the fourth-best ERA by a freshman starting A place I ve always wanted to visit, but never had the chance is (and why)? Israel, Europe, Australia they re beautiful and each has its own distinct characteristics that would make for a unique experience in each! Inside the Numbers with Sarah Ellis Year ERA W L App GS CG SHO CBO SV IP H R ER BB SO 2B 3B HR BF B/Avg WP HBP SFA SHA BK TOTAL

7 2008 SOFTBALL #0 Miranda fielder 5-7, Jr. OF, R/R Tazewell (Bluefield) Tazewell, Va. Previous School: Played two years at Bluefield College as a utility player completed her sophomore year with 30 hits to go along with a.303 batting average Prep: Graduated from Tazewell High School three-year letterwinner earned first team all-district honors three years member of the all-regional team two years A-B honor roll member Student Government representative Who s Who nominee. Personal: Daughter of Randy and Tammy Fielder majoring in mass communications would like to pursue a career as a sports broadcaster or broadcast journalist after graduation birthday is on Nov. 9. PLAYER PROFILES Up Close with Miranda Fielder What is your favorite Bible verse and why? Peter 5:0, because this verse clearly expresses that the even through struggles, the Lord will see you through. What is your favorite movie(s) and why? The Little Rascals, The Aristocats, Mean Girls and Fracture because I never get tired of watching them. I came to Liberty because? I realized that I needed to make a change in my life, and Liberty was that change. Share something that people don t know about you? I am legally blind in my left eye. What has been your defining moment as an athlete? Playing softball for 4 years and finally seeing my name on a NCAA Division I softball roster. My first car was and still is a black Ford Focus. If you could be somebody else for a day, who would you be and why? I would love to be Britney Spears for one day, only because I would show her how to truly clean up her act! What is the best advice you have ever been given? Go out there, do your best, and don t forget to have fun. - from my Dad. After graduation I would like to become an ESPN sports reporter/broadcaster or a conservative columnist for a major newspaper. When I have an hour of free time, I like to stalk people on Facebook or shop online. My craziest ambition in life is to travel the world by myself for a summer. A place I ve always wanted to visit, but never had the chance is (and why)? I would love to visit Australia, because I have family that lives there. What are four or five things you could not live without? I could not live without my family, computer, Bible, hand sanitizer and my blanket. What sets softball apart as a sport and makes it appealing? Softball has a group of girls who aren t afraid to get dirty, sweaty, loud and still remain pretty. Who doesn t want to watch that? If I won a million dollars, I would first off, tithe to my home church, invest some, then go on a shopping spree at Bloomingdale s or Saks Fifth. MEDIA GUIDE

8 PLAYER PROFILES #2 courtney johnson 5-7, Jr. 3B, R/R Berean Christian HS Concord, Calif (So.): Named to the Big South Presidential Honor Roll saw playing time in 55 games, starting 53 contests nearly tripled her plate appearances over the previous year (26 at bats) finished the year with a career high in at bats, runs (8), hits (2), doubles (2), home runs (2), RBI (7) and sacrifice hits (6) ranked fourth on the squad in sacrifice hits -for-3 in the first game of the year against Appalachian State, helping Liberty to a 5-3 season-opening victory -for-3 with a run scored in a 7-3 victory over Rutgers, helping the Lady Flames secure third place at the Tar Heels Invitational set a season high with a solid defensive performance, recording eight assists at third base against host Hawaii at the Hawaiian Airlines Spring Fling Softball Tournament -for-3 against No. 4 Oregon State 2-for-3 with two assists in Liberty s 5-3 victory over Pacific at the Hawaiian Airlines Spring Fling Softball Tournament drove in a run during Liberty s 4-3 victory over No. 23 Hawaii at the Bank of Hawaii Invitational - for-2 against No. 25 California scored a run during Liberty s 4-0 victory over No. 0 Baylor at the Bank of Hawaii Invitational scored a run and walked twice against No. 25 California at the Women4Women Invitational -for-3 against No. Tennessee -for-3 with a run scored against Georgetown at the Blue Ridge Thunder tournament 2-for-3 with a RBI and a double during a 5-3 victory over James Madison successfully recorded a hit in each game, helping Liberty take two out of three from Winthrop scored the lone run in Liberty s -0 victory over Radford, clocking her first collegiate home run hit her second home run in the nightcap against the Highlanders, as she was -for-3 from the plate SOFTBALL level in 994 (best was by Amanda Goc, who shared time at third in 2002 and finished the year with a.956 fielding percentage) recorded just seven errors in 34 fielding opportunities -for-3 in Liberty s 7-5, extra inning win over Stony Brook to open the season -for-3 with a RBI single against St. Francis at the Pirate Clash two runs scored in the Lady Flames 8-3 win over James Madison scored two runs and drove in another in Liberty s doubleheader sweep over North Carolina A&T. Prep: Graduated from Berean Christian High School four-year letterwinner was named to the second-team all-league squad as a sophomore and a junior batted.322 with 3 RBI and seven stolen bases as a junior, while being named to the third-team all-bay Area squad helped lead her team to a North Coast Championship as a senior when she batted.329 with 24 RBI and five stolen bases first-team all-league honoree as a senior twotime team captain also played soccer, volleyball and basketball second-team all-league in soccer threeyear letterwinner in basketball two-year letterwinner in volleyball member of the Honor Roll class officer junior state nominee. Personal: Daughter of Brent and Catherine Johnson comes from an athletic background, as her father played collegiate soccer at San Jose State majoring in sport management would like to pursue a career in media or public relations after graduation birthday is on Feb. 4. Up Close with Courtney Johnson What is your favorite movie and why? The Patriot is my all-time favorite movie, because it is the most entertaining war movie pertaining to American history. sport? My favorite memory was beating No. 6 Michigan last year and making the final out with the bases loaded to win the game. If you could be somebody else for a day, who would you be and why? Amber DePasquale, so I could know what it feels like to be fast. SOFTBALL 2006 (Fr.): Named to the Big South Presidential Honor Roll named to the Dean s List during the spring semester started 59 games, mostly as a defensive third baseman made limited plate appearances (40 in 59 games) finished the year with four runs scored and two RBI... posted a.950 fielding percentage at the hot corner, helping Liberty set a team fielding percentage record of.963 fielding percentage was the second best by a starting third baseman since Liberty made the move to the Division I After graduation I would like to pursue a career in Athletic Media Relations and coach high school and eventually college softball. What cartoon character are you most alike (and why)? I am most like Fred Flinstone because my feet move quick like when he s driving his car, but I don t get anywhere. Inside the Numbers with Courtney Johnson Year Avg GP GS AB R H 2B 3B HR RBI TB SLG% BB HBP SO OB% SF SH SB ATT PO A E FLD% TOTAL

9 2008 SOFTBALL #6 jessica leary 5-7, Jr. OF, R/R Timothy Christian HS North Plainfield, N.J. PLAYER PROFILES Carolina A&T was a combined 4-for-8 with three runs scored in Liberty s doubleheader sweep over Norfolk State -for- with a run scored in the Lady Flames 4-0 win over UNC Greensboro 2-for-2 with a run scored and two RBI against Lynchburg College -for-3 in Liberty s 2-0, Big South win over Charleston Southern -for-2 with a run scored in a conference win over Coastal Carolina - for-3 with a run scored and a double in the Lady Flames 6-5 victory over 24th-ranked Virginia Tech -for-3 in both games of a doubleheader against conference foe Winthrop -for-2 with a run scored against Winthrop in Liberty s 8-3 win at the Big South Championship (So.): Named to the Big South Presidential Honor Roll member of the Dean s List saw action in 47 games, starting 34 contests ranked eight on the squad with runs scored recorded career numbers in doubles (2), home runs () and RBI (4) seventh on the squad with four sacrifice hits started the year by getting a hit during the first three contests and four out of the first five -for-3 with a run scored and two RBI, clocking a tworun homer during Liberty s 5-3 victory over Appalachian State was a combined 2-for-5 with a run scored and a double in a doubleheader split with Gardner-Webb -for- 2 to help Liberty to a 6-2 victory over Kennesaw State at the KSU Classic -for-2 with a run scored to help Liberty to an 8-0 victory over Fairfield -for-2 with three runs scored, a RBI and two walks in Liberty s 4- victory over Rhode Island at the Tar Heel Invitational tied a team season high with two sacrifice hits during Liberty s 6-5 victory over Boston College in the opening game of the Hawaiian Airlines Spring Fling Tournament -for- with a RBI double during Liberty s 0-2 victory over Georgetown at the Blue Ridge Thunder tournament -for-3 during Liberty s 9- victory over Radford -for-2 helping Liberty to a 4-0 Big South victory over Coastal Carolina (Fr.): Named to the Big South Presidential Honor Roll saw playing time in 60 out of 64 games started 57 contests, third most by a freshman on the squad started all but two games in right field (also one in left field and one at designated player) ranked second on the team with seven sacrifice hits ranked fifth on the team with 2 runs scored tied for the team lead with four outfield assists got her first collegiate hit as part of a 2-for-3 performance against Delaware at the Pirate Clash -for-2 with two runs scored in a 3-2 Big South win over Texas A&M Corpus Christi, helping the Lady Flames complete a doubleheader sweep -for-2 with a run scored against Central Connecticut at the Bethune-Coookman Spring Break Classic -for-2 in win over Iowa State to propel the Lady Flames into the championship game of the Bethune-Cookman Spring Break Classic was -for- and scored a season-high three runs in a 5- win over North Prep: Graduated from Timothy Christian High School three-year letterwinner started as a member of the varsity team as a freshman and batted fourth in the lineup was named the team s Rookie of the Year as a freshman started at shortstop and won the team s Top Hitter award as a sophomore took her junior season off returned to action as a senior and was named the team s Most Valuable Player during her final prep season All-County first-team honoree as she led the division in home runs three-year high honors student. Personal: Daughter of Donna Leary majoring in kinesiology would like to pursue a career as a physical education teacher after graduation birthday is on July 9. Up Close with Jessica Leary What is your favorite movie and why? Far and Away sport? Hitting a home run my first at bat last year. What is your most embarrassing memory while competing in your sport? Tripping while running around the bases, because I wasn t used to the metal cleats. Share something that people don t know about you? I wear retainers at night. My first car was a 999 Nissan Sentra, that three people have already hit while being at Liberty! What are four or five things you could not live without? Family, Musty (my stuffed dog I sleep with), friends, God and my cell phone. The first thing people notice about me when they meet me is I have really long legs. After graduation I would like to teach physical education. Inside the Numbers with Jessica Leary Year Avg GP GS AB R H 2B 3B HR RBI TB SLG% BB HBP SO OB% SF SH SB ATT PO A E FLD% TOTAL MEDIA GUIDE 3

10 PLAYER PROFILES 2008 SOFTBALL SOFTBALL # j nae jefferson 5-4, So. INF, R/R Cabell Midland HS Barboursville, W.Va (Fr.): Named to the Big South Presidential Honor Roll started all 62 games started 6 games at shortstop and one at second base ranked fourth on the team with 3 runs scored and six home runs seventh on the squad with five doubles one of the more patient hitters on the team, ranking fourth with 6 walks ranked third on the team with seven sacrifice hits second on the team with 02 assists had seven multiple hit games during the year ranked fifth on the team with five multiple RBI contests had the fourth-longest hitting streak on the team at six games was a combined 3-for-six with four runs scored in a doubleheader split with Gardner-Webb -for- 4 with a run scored during Liberty s 3-2 victory over the College of Charleston at the KSU Classic scored three runs and was -for-2 from the plate during Liberty s 9-4 victory over Princeton at the Tar Heel Invitational her first collegiate home run was a grand slam during Liberty s 4- victory over Rhode Island at the Tar Heel Invitational 3- for-3 against Marshall at the Tar Heels Invitational -for- 4 with a run scored and a double, helping Liberty secure third place at the Tar Heel Invitational with a 7-3 victory over Rutgers 2-for-3 with two runs scored in a 6-5 victory over Boston College in Liberty s opening game at the Hawaiian Airlines Spring Fling Tournament 2-for-3 with a run scored and a double during Liberty s upset victory over No. 0 Baylor at the Bank of Hawaii Invitational... -for-3 with two RBI and a double against No. 25 California at the Women4Women Invitational -for-2 against No. 7 Northwestern was a combined 2-for-4 with two runs scored, two RBI, a double and home run in a doubleheader against James Madison 2-for-4 with two runs scored, three RBI and a home run in Liberty s Big South opener against Winthrop had a solo home run against UNC Greensboro was a combined 2-for-3 with a run scored in a doubleheader against Longwood 2-for-3 with a run scored during Liberty s 4-3 Big South win over Coastal Carolina hit a solo home run against No. 7 Virginia Tech -for-2 with a three run home run against Birmingham-Southern. Prep: Graduated from Cabell Midland High School fouryear varsity starter up the middle for the Lady Knights at either shortstop or second base helped lead Cabell Midland to three state runner-up finishes (freshman, sophomore and senior years) and a state championship during her junior campaign MSAC first-team and All-State firstteam honoree as a junior and senior... All-Tournament Best of the Best as a junior and senior batted.325 as a starter at shortstop as a freshman finished her sophomore season with a.329 batting average, 3 RBI and a home run batted a career-best.470 with 7 RBI and five home runs during her junior year capped off her prep career as she batted.436 with 9 RBI and two homers as a senior named the MVP of the North-South game as a senior graduated with very high honors MU alpha theta French honorary honor roll student Personal: Daughter of Jay and Margaret comes from an athletic background, as her father played baseball at Marshall majoring in psychology would like to pursue a career as a Christian counselor after graduation birthday is on Sept. 5. Up Close with J nae Jefferson What is your favorite Bible verse and why? I Corinthians 5:33-34 What is your favorite movie and why? Cinderella, because I want to be a princess with bling. What is your most embarrassing memory while competing in your sport? I get embarrassed for Jenna when she tries to jump high. My first car was a 998 Toyota. If you could change one rule in your sport, what would it be and why? We could hit people with the ball like dodge ball. If you could compete in any sport against any athlete, who would it be and why? I would pole vault against Justin Savini. What sets softball apart as a sport and makes it appealing? I like to play in the dirt. What cartoon character are you most alike (and why)? Peppy La Pew, because I don t wash my practice clothes too often. If someone would look at the songs on my ipod, I would be embarrassed for them to see I have this song Well, if I had Amber s ipod, I would be embarrassed about a lot of songs no other comment is needed. Inside the Numbers with J nae Jefferson Year Avg GP GS AB R H 2B 3B HR RBI TB SLG% BB HBP SO OB% SF SH SB ATT PO A E FLD% TOTAL

11 2008 SOFTBALL PLAYER PROFILES #3 dana wheeler 5-4, So. LHP, R/L Watkins HS Pataskala, Ohio 2007 (Fr.): Named to the Big South Presidential Honor Roll named to the Dean s List saw limited action as she recovered from surgery prior to her freshman year posted a 2- record on the mound with a 3.64 ERA registered nine appearances inside the pitcher s circle during the year, starting four contests tossed two complete games fanned 20 batters during 25.0 innings of work tossed a seven-inning, complete-game victory over Rhode Island in her first career start, allowing five hits and a run to Up Close with Dana Wheeler What is your favorite movie and why? The Gladiator, because Russell Crowe looks AMAZING and the fighting scenes are totally cool. sport? Winning ASA States in Ohio and also hitting a home run during the tournament. I came to Liberty because... to find the man of my dreams... and I found him! My first car was 999 Ford Taurus, which I still drive. Mom and Dad, if you are reading this, I wouldn t mind having a new car. When I have an hour of free time, I like to what is free time in college? If someone would look at the songs on my ipod, I would be embarrassed for them to see I have this song any song by Clay Aiken, because I used to love him. What sets softball apart as a sport and makes it appealing? It s the only sport where I can wear make-up and still get dirty. If you could change one rule in your sport, what would it be and why? I would allow teams to have diamond studded helmets, so then they could show off all the cool bling they have earned. go along with four strikeouts at the Tar Heel Invitational started against Hawaii at the Hawaiian Airlines Spring Fling Tournament struck out one and allowed one hit during 2/3 innings of work against No. 25 California at the Women4Women Invitational picked up her second victory of the year in a 4- win over Norfolk State, scattering four hits and allowing one run during the complete-game victory scored a run against Lynchburg College. Prep: Graduated from Watkins High School four-year letterwinner for the Warriors in the pitcher s circle ended her prep career as Watkins career ERA and home run record holder posted a 6- record with a 0.59 ERA as a freshman, helping her earn team Rookie of the Year honors led the team from the plate with 6 RBI as a freshman limited playing time during her sophomore season due to an injury was a perfect 4-0 as a junior with 20 strikeouts and six walks in 04 innings of work... led the team with 25 RBI as a junior, while adding a.76 slugging percentage, six doubles, three triples and four home runs set a school record with a 0.33 ERA as a junior, helping her team finish the year with a 24-3 record which earn a No. 4 final ranking in the Ohio state poll named Ohio Capital Conference Player of the Year as a junior, while garnering All-Ohio, Central District and Ohio Capital Conference first-team honors suffered another injury prior to her senior year, limiting her playing time during her final prep season lettered as a senior at first base on the 2005 Ringor Showcase Best of the Best member of the 2005 North American Select Team which played in Denmark 2004 Competitive Edge clinic team that visited Thailand Ohio Scholar Athlete ( ) member of the National Honor Society. Personal: Daughter of David and Debbi Wheeler undecided about her major at Liberty birthday is on Oct. 3. Inside the Numbers with Dana Wheeler Year ERA W L App GS CG SHO CBO SV IP H R ER BB SO 2B 3B HR BF B/Avg WP HBP SFA SHA BK TOTAL MEDIA GUIDE 5

12 PLAYER PROFILES 2008 SOFTBALL #33 leah cossentino 5-, Fr. UTL, R/R Glenelg HS Marriottsville, Md. Prep: Graduated from Glenelg High School four-year letterwinner finished her career in school s top 0 list in games, runs, RBIs, stolen bases, sacrifices, doubles, triples, home runs and walks voted team rookie of the year her freshman year helped her team to regional and county championships All-County honoree all four seasons led county with highest batting average (.508) her junior year, including 4 home runs, which earned her honorable mention All-Metro earned team MVP honors voted captain her junior and senior seasons batted.490 her senior season also played field hockey and earned All-County honors helped her team to county and regional championships, while finishing as state runner-up named to the National Honor Society honor roll. Personal: Daughter of Wayne and Debi Cossentino majoring in nursing birthday is on May 5. Up Close with Leah Cossentino What is your favorite Bible verse and why? John 3:6, because it states what God is all about. That s the real deal. What is your favorite movie and why? I like the movie Mean Girls, because it is funny, and the jokes never grow old, no matter how many times I watch it. What is your most embarrassing memory while competing in your sport? My most embarrassing memory is when I lost a fly ball in the sun and came down and it hit me in the face. I came to Liberty because? I came to Liberty because I love the overall Christian atmosphere and sports. Share something that people don t know about you? I love the smell of bandaids. My first car was a Jeep Liberty. If you could be somebody else for a day, who would you be and why? I would want to see what it is like to be any type of celebrity actress, I would want to see what they have to go through during the day, and trying to get away from fans and people from the media. What is the best advice you have ever been given? Since I have come here, I am constantly reminded to play for the glory of God. This reminds me that I can t take this gift that He has given me for granted. After graduation I would like to get married to my boyfriend, get our own house and be a nurse who works with babies. When I have an hour of free time, I like to organize things whether it s my room, my schedule or my life. My craziest ambition in life is to I would like to travel to every state in the country for vacation and buy at least one piece of clothing from each one. Who is one person in history that you would like to meet and why? I would like to meet Noah from the Bible, because I would like to ask him how the flood was, and what it was like to be with all the animals. SOFTBALL What are four or five things you could not live without? I could not live without God, friends, family and a mall. Who is your favorite athlete on your team to watch compete (and why)? I like to watch Shannon McKain compete. She has such an accurate and strong arm in the outfield, and she s always positive. 6

13 2008 SOFTBALL PLAYER PROFILES #5 amber depasquale 5-4, Fr. UTL, R/R The Woodlands HS The Woodlands, Texas Prep: Graduated from The Woodlands High School four-year letterwinner as a utility player named second team All-District and All County her junior year played travel ball for Texas Hit-N-Run, helping the team to the Houston Metro ASA champions and Texas AFA State champions recorded a.45 batting average with two home runs led her team with an - record from the circle with 60 strikeouts and a 0.75 ERA. Personal: Daughter of Clare Smith comes from an athletic family as her brother plays football at Colorado School of Mines majoring in biology with a pre-veterinary emphasis birthday is on Aug. 3. Up Close with Amber DePasquale What is your favorite Bible verse and why? 2 Corinthians 5:7 Walk by faith, not by sight. I just love this verse, because it lets me know that God is with us, even though we can not see Him. sport? My favorite memory happened during the district championship my senior year in high school. We were playing the Magnolia Bull Dogs. The girl ahead of me in the line-up hit a stand-up double. I followed it with a home run. The coolest part was the show Texas High School Sports Live was there and captured it on tape. We won the game, giving us the district championship. We were the first team in the history of The Woodlands High School to win a district championship. What is your most embarrassing memory while competing in your sport? I remember when I was a freshman in high school, we were cleaning up after practice and it was my job to put up the pitching machine. I was trying to speed up the slowing down process of the wheel on the machine, by stopping it with my foot. One of the seniors said, Why don t you use a ball. I tried it with a ball, but it got caught on the machine and rolled up and hit me square in the nose. It really hurt and my teammates made fun of me for quite some time after that. I came to Liberty because? I wanted to play NCAA Division I softball. Share something that people don t know about you? I have a twin brother. What has been your defining moment as an athlete? When I was a freshman in high school, I chose to play softball over soccer and volleyball. My first car was Toyota Matrix, that my brother and I had to share. If you could be somebody else for a day, who would you be and why? I would be Chuck Norris, because he doesn t push himself up. He pushes the world down, and his round house kick puts the Karate Kid to shame. After graduation I would like to go to Texas A&M for their veterinarian program. When I have an hour of free time, I like to take a nap. Words that describe me on the athletic field (and why) are focused because during the game I am 00 percent into the game, enthusiastic because it s a team sport and I definitely cheer on my teammates, and a hard worker because I want to win! MEDIA GUIDE 7

14 PLAYER PROFILES #22 jenna eatmon 5-6, Fr. UTL, R/L Croaton HS Emerald Isle, N.C. Prep: Graduated from Croatan High School four-year letterwinner as a pitcher currently holds the fifth-highest season batting average (.627) in the state of North Carolina three-time all conference and All Area honoree broke the school s batting average record her sophomore year by batting.627 named team MVP as a sophomore, junior and senior batted.486, earning her area player of the year honors recorded a 7-5 record from the mound and struck out 87 batters with an ERA of.96 finished her senior year batting.436 and posted a ERA honored as conference player of the year, area player of the year, all district, district player of the year, Most Outstanding Female Athlete, WITN student-athlete of the week, and Wendy s Scholar Athlete helped the Carolina Cardinals to ASA national and state championships in 2006 honor roll Student Government representative. Personal: Daughter of Jeff and Joy Eatmon majoring in psychology intends on becoming a clinical psychologist after graduation birthday is May SOFTBALL Up Close with Jenna Eatmon I came to Liberty because? Initially I liked Liberty because my brother is here, but I really feel like this is where the Lord wants me to be. What has been your defining moment as an athlete? I think one of my most defining moments was stepping on the field for the first time in a college game. That s where it sunk in that I was the first in my family to finally do that. My craziest ambition in life is to... one day quit my job, become a famous writer and travel the world. A place I ve always wanted to visit, but never had the chance is (and why)? I ve always wanted to go to Australia, because it is beautiful and I love the natives accent. If someone would look at the songs on my ipod, I would be embarrassed for them to see I have this song I d be embarrassed because I have a lot of childish songs by Hannah Montana, Jonas Brothers and the cast of High School Musical. What sets softball apart as a sport and makes it appealing? Softball is so intense and fast paced. There is no room for error and you re constantly moving, thinking and planning your next move. What cartoon character are you most alike (and why)? I m most like Dora the Explorer, because I always repeat myself in Spanish. SOFTBALL 8

15 2008 SOFTBALL #2 cassie hendrix 5-6, Fr. INF, L/R North Central HS Indianapolis, Ind. Prep: Graduated from North Central High School fouryear starter named team MVP her freshman and senior years voted All-City her freshman and sophomore year, while playing shortstop received the Golden Glove Award her junior year honored as All County and all conference her junior and senior years, while playing at second base... named Team Defensive Player of the Year and Co-Captain Award her senior year finished her career with a.37 batting average and a.982 fielding percentage (only committing 3 errors over four years) successfully stole 38-of-46 stolen base attempts played travel ball for 8U Indiana Magic and helped her squad win a state championship and finish No. 7 at ASA National PLAYER PROFILES Championships in College Station, Texas finished the 2007 season with a.362 batting average and a.40 in the ASA Nationals also played four years of basketball state runner-up for basketball her freshman year led her squad to city champions her freshman and junior seasons named to the honor roll. Personal: Daughter of Robert and Shelley Hendrix majoring in elementary education would like to pursue a career in teaching after graduation birthday is on Nov. 8. Up Close with Cassie Hendrix What is your favorite Bible verse and why? I Corinthians 0:3, because it is very encouraging to remember that God will not give you more than you can handle and He will always be right there with you. What is your favorite movie and why? Shawshank Redemption sport? Winning ASA State last summer. I came to Liberty because... I loved the atmosphere on campus, and wanted to play softball at the Division I level, while still being able to get a Christian-based education. Share something that people don t know about you? When I was in fifth grade I fell ice skating and broke one of my front teeth, so I have a fake tooth. My first car was a 988 Honda Accord and his name was Bluey. If you could be somebody else for a day, who would you be and why? I would want to be Hannah Montana, so I could get the best of both worlds. If you could change one rule in your sport, what would it be and why? Move the pitcher s mound and the fences back, so it will become more of a hitter s sport. After graduation I would like to go on a long-term missions trip. Words that describe me on the athletic field (and why) are focused - when I go out to play a game, I like to have a serious game face on. My craziest ambition in life is to to be on Fear Factor and win it! Do you have any pre-match rituals? Just suit up and put my game face on. Who is one person in history that you would like to meet and why? I would love to spend a day with King David and just get to know him and talk to him about anything and everything. MEDIA GUIDE 9

16 PLAYER PROFILES 2008 SOFTBALL #9 elena lampman 5-3, Fr. OF, L/L Ryle HS Vancouver, Wash. Prep: Graduated from Ryle High School four-year letterwinner as a center fielder led Northern Kentucky in career runs scored (0) and stolen bases (80) finished career with a.492 batting average helped her team to district champions all four years Kentucky all-star honoree all four years helped her team to regional and state championships her junior and senior years also participated in track track state competitor all four years. Personal: Daughter of Jill Lampman majoring in kinesiology would like to pursue a career in personal fitness training birthday is on Oct. 8. Up Close with Elena Lampman What is your favorite Bible verse and why? Jeremiah 29:, because it builds my faith knowing that God has meaningful plans for my life, and as long as I follow Him, He will take care of the rest. What is your favorite movie and why? Fox and the Hound, because it shows the true meaning of best friends. sport? My favorite memory while competing in softball was winning the softball state championship in June, What is your most embarrassing memory while competing in your sport? My most embarrassing memory while competing in softball would be tripping over first base multiple times. Share something that people don t know about you? I was adopted from Romania. What has been your defining moment as an athlete? My defining moment as an athlete would be fulfilling my dream of becoming a NCAA Division I softball player. My first car was a Dodge Stratus. What is the best advice you have ever been given? The best advice that I have ever been given is to never, never, never give up. After graduation I would like to plan to become a physical fitness trainer and hopefully do missions work back in Romania. If you could compete in any sport against any athlete, who would it be and why? If I could compete in any sport against any athlete I would compete in gymnastics against Nadia Comaneci, because we are both Romanian and she is the first gymnast ever to receive a perfect score of a 0.0. My craziest ambition in life is to change Romanian laws. Who is one person in history that you would like to meet and why? One person in history that I would like to meet would be my birth father, because I never got the chance to meet him before he died. SOFTBALL A place I ve always wanted to visit, but never had the chance is (and why)? A place I ve always wanted to visit but never had the chance is Hawaii, because it s always warm! What are four or five things you could not live without? Coffee, peanut butter, my bible and my toothbrush. 20

17 2008 SOFTBALL PLAYER PROFILES #23 Keely mcmillon 5-5, Fr. C, R/R Lansing Catholic HS Vermontville, Mich. Prep: Graduated from Lansing Catholic Central High School four-year starter named All-Area, All-District, All-Region and Capital Area Conference First Team throughout her four years of varsity softball. Personal: Daughter of Rod and Corrine McMillon comes from athletic family, as her sister, Nicole, played softball for Hartford majoring in business birthday is on Dec. 7. Up Close with Keely McMillon What is your favorite Bible verse and why? Mark 0:27 Jesus looked at them and said, With man this is impossible, but not with God, all things are possible with God. sport? There are a lot of great memories, but the most memorable came during my freshman year of high school. We were playing our rival in the district championship for 4 innings before we won the game. What is your most embarrassing memory while competing in your sport? The first day we went outside with our new metal cleats, it was a little wet and muddy. I went to slide into third and my cleat completely got stuck and I flopped into third, but still somehow managed to slide beyond the base. Coach Tuesday (Van Engen) said we could ve won money for it if we only had a video camera. Share something that people don t know about you? I can wiggle my ears. My first car was a red 2002 Saturn SC2. Who is your favorite Liberty athlete? Kittery Maine (Women s Basketball) After graduation I would like to keep playing as long as I can, start coaching and get a job. When I have an hour of free time, I like to listen to music, hang out with friends, mess around on the computer and talk to my family. If you could compete in any sport against any athlete, who would it be and why? I would play baseball against Derek Jeter or football against Tom Brady. A place I ve always wanted to visit, but never had the chance is (and why)? Anywhere in Europe or Africa. What are four or five things you could not live without? Bible, family and friends, my glove and my cell phone. What sets softball apart as a sport and makes it appealing? Because there is no other sport like it, as it is faster than baseball. You never know what is going to happen next. There are so many different things that can happen within one pitched ball. You always have to be thinking three to four plays ahead. If I won a million dollars, I would buy a house and a car, buy something for my parents (whatever they want) and probably save most of the rest for the future. MEDIA GUIDE 2

18 PLAYER PROFILES #8 tiffani smith 5-7, Fr. RHP, L/R South Western HS Hanover, Pa. Prep: Graduated from South Western High School fouryear letterwinner holds school record in career ERA (0.20) and strikeouts (443) finished her junior year with a.588 batting average on 46 hits struck out 225 batters as she led her team with a 4-3 record from the mound recorded a.508 batting average her senior season with 26 runs struck out 26 batters to finish her senior season with a 5- record and an ERA of voted YAIAA Player of the Year her junior and senior seasons named to the Distinguished Honor Roll. Personal: Daughter of Phil and Paula Smith majoring in elementary education birthday is on Feb. 7. Up Close with Tiffani Smith 2008 SOFTBALL What is your favorite movie and why? Sweet Home Alabama, because it is a country setting, funny and romantic. What is your most embarrassing memory while competing in your sport? When I was 2 or 3, I wound up to pitch and accidentally released the ball behind me. I just stood there in confusion, because I didn t know what happened or what to do. I came to Liberty because? I loved the campus and the people and wanted to play softball while getting a solid education and growing in Christ. Share something that people don t know about you? My feet are two different sizes. My first car was a black 200 Dodge Neon and I am still driving it! If you could be somebody else for a day, who would you be and why? It would be against Jennie Finch, because she is an amazing pitcher and I would like to see how a professional works out and manages their life. Who is your favorite Liberty athlete? Leah Cossentino is my favorite Liberty athlete because she s my roommate, an awesome hitter and fielder, and a great person! If you could change one rule in your sport, what would it be and why? I would change the intentional walk rule, because I don t think pitchers should give freebees. It s a good challenge for the pitcher to pitch to that hitter. After graduation I would like to become an elementary teacher, live in North Carolina and get married. When I have an hour of free time, I like to complete little tasks and organize things. My craziest ambition in life is to travel to France, Italy, Ireland, Australia, Greece and Alaska. SOFTBALL A place I ve always wanted to visit, but never had the chance is (and why)? I ve always wanted to go to Disney World in Florida, because I love Disney movies and I heard it s the greatest place in the world. What are four or five things you could not live without? I could not live without God, family, friends, mall and food. 22