Infielder Michaela Mills was a part of the Class 3A state championship team last season and named to the all-tournament team -- as a freshman. She batted .500, had five RBI and scored four runs during Hastings' state tournament run. She has been named captain of this year's team.

What do you attribute last year's success to? Our coaching is amazing. I think our captains, Brittani Robinson and Treya Connell, were a huge part in keeping me motivated. They were a huge help in helping me get better.

What's it like being a state champion? Amazing. It was just great to be a part of the team and know that you're helping out in any way you can.

What did you do to prepare for this season? My dad and I go to a field and practice all the time. In the winter, we hit in our basement. We have an extra little room in our basement where we set up a mattress against the wall. I set softballs on tees and I hit them.

Team goals for this year? Obviously, our big goal is to win state. That's always the top goal.

What do you want to accomplish before your high school career is over? Another state championship. That would be the big goal. I want to make myself better, just to be a better all-round player.

What kind of a hitter are you? I am a lefty and I can do pretty much anything. I can hit for power and then when fielders move back, I can lay down a bunt and beat it out to first base.

Ten years from now, where do you see yourself? I would like to be a pediatrician. I love working with kids. Hopefully, [go into] coaching, too.

Other hobbies? I like running, I play piano, I love to read, I dance and I love working out, too.

CALVIN SWANSON