Earliest memory playing softball: Probably in fifth grade, seeing fastpitch for the first time. I remember seeing how much better the competition was.

What stood out to you? I was surprised by how fast they pitched. It probably took me a couple of weeks to get used to it.

Favorite softball memory? In summer ball, I dove and caught the ball and landed on second base for the last two outs of the game.

Game-winning hit or game-saving catch? Game-saving catch. You know you stopped the other team from having any chance of winning.

What are your expectations for this year? For myself, I expect to be very good in the batter's box and have the best year I've ever had. For the team, I expect that we'll do just as good as last year and make it to state.

What's the most important thing about being a slap hitter? The timing of your feet and where you place the ball when you hit it.

Your game is based on speed. How fast are you? I'm not sure, but I ran the bases in just a little more than 10 seconds.

Give an example of when your speed has made a difference in a game: Last year, the game was tied and it was our last ups. I got a bunt down and beat it out. My teammate hit me in with the winning run.

What is the biggest key to being a good hitter? Watching the ball all the way to your bat.

JIM PAULSEN