This time of year, Park of Cottage Grove senior shortstop Jessica Kullmann is all softball, all the time. Except when she’s answering questions (softball-related, of course) for us.

• Most memorable moment (so far)? In eighth grade, I was on the varsity … and we were playing Roseville.  The coach put me in for one at-bat. I got a hit, my very first varsity hit. I was so excited, after the game all my teammates signed the ball.

• First softball memory: I was 9 years old and going to tryouts for the 10U traveling team. I remember seeing all the older kids and thinking of how I wanted to be just as good as they were.

• Three things you couldn’t play without: My purple mouth guard, my sunglasses that block the glare, my lefthanded batting glove (yes, I only use one).

• Staying in softball shape during the winter: I play domeball, run on the track in the activity center and work out on my Bowflex at home.

• Favorite part of a game: When I make that critical play that makes the out and no runs are scored.

• What runs through your mind before an at-bat? I analyze the base runners and how the team is positioned on the field. Once I have done that, I go into my zone and tune out everything.

• One sacrifice during the season: Not spending time with my friends. But you do make new friends on the team, and you still have fun.

Jim Paulsen