Straight over the plate; Aggie pitcher says she likes softball

Morgan Russell

Heather Straight

Hometown: Tucson, AZPosition: Rt. Pitcher

Background: Transfer student from Pima Community College in Tucson

Utah Statesman: What do you think of Logan, Utah?

Heather Straight: It’s really great, except for the cold, I hate the cold.

US: What’s the best thing about Utah State?

Straight: My team, I love my team and our coaches. Plus, I really like the small-town atmosphere here – when it’s warm.

US: What has been your favorite softball moment?

Straight: My sophomore year in Tucson, my team went 70-8 overall and won their first-ever NJCAA national title. It made the year. It was the perfect season.

US: What was your first thought when you came to play at Utah State?

Straight: I thought, ‘Wow.’ I remember stepping on the field and thinking, ‘This is my field, this is it.’

US: Was that your favorite USU softball moment?

Straight: I think so; definitely playing my first home game in Division-I ball on our field was awesome.

US: What would you consider one of your weaknesses?

Straight:I think I’m too nice to people.

US: Is that on and off the field?

Straight: No, definitely just off the field. I don’t have that problem when I’m throwing!

US: What’s one of your strengths you take onto the mound?

Straight: I’m trustworthy, easy to get along with and show good leadership.

US: Do you have a pre-game meal? Any rituals?

Straight: No, not really. I really don’t eat anything huge before a game or even before practice. I get too nervous. As far as game rituals go, I just try to get myself mentally ready and prepare for the game.

US: What’s a goal you would like to achieve this year?

Straight: My goal is to finish in the top two or three of our conference and finish out my senior year with a bang.

US: Any hidden talents you’re keeping from us?

Straight: No, not really, although I have been known to crank out some spontaneous dancing.

US: What kind of pet peeves do you have?

Straight: I can’t stand it when people talk about others. It’s annoying and rude. And I hate it when people don’t give others any kind of chance.

US: Who’s your favorite professional baseball team?

Straight: The White Sox. I have a friend that plays center field for them, Brian Anderson.

US: How do you know him?

Straight: We went to rival high schools in Tucson together and we’ve just followed each other through the years.

US: How much do you depend on your teammates?

Straight: We have a really close team. We’ve kinda became each other’s support system since a majority of us are from out of state.

US: Do you have a motto to live by?

Straight:: Life’s not a dress rehearsal; live everyday to the fullest.

-morganr@cc.usu.edu