For most of this season, it has seemed like the Texas softball team has been walking in a desert trying to find its identity.



The Longhorns uncharacteristically started 0-6 in Big 12 Conference play and then recently lost a home series to Iowa State. Where's the spark for UT coach Connie Clark's team?

Well, it turns out Texas is looking toward the deserts of Southern California to find that spark for next season.

Enter pitching prospect Chloe Romero from Helendale, CA. During her senior season, Romero threw seven no-hitters, including two perfect games, and hit for the cycle in the same game she threw a perfect game.

Romero is ranked No. 20 in the FloSoftball Hot 100 class and is one of the top pitching prospects in the country.

She also committed to the Longhorns as a freshman, setting the course for a unique high school experience at the Academy of Careers and Exploration in Helendale.



So, how did a Southern California softball player become enamored with Texas at a young age? By watching the legendary Cat Osterman.

Romero even wears Osterman's trademark No. 8. And, she hopes to follow in Osterman's footsteps as the next dominant starting pitcher for the Longhorns.

As Romero wraps up her high school career, we talked to her about looking ahead to playing for Texas next season.

Five Big Questions with Chloe Romero

We really want to know what drew you to Texas after growing up in California?
When I was younger I grew up watching Cat Osterman and she was my biggest inspiration growing up, which made Texas one of my top choices of colleges I wanted to attend. Don't get me wrong I love California, but my first visit to Texas I knew it was the place for me to spend my collegiate years. The atmosphere in Texas is so different from California. Growing up in a small town I wanted to experience a different environment and attend a school with such strong traditions.

What was it about Texas softball that made you want to commit as a freshman and remain committed?
Texas softball is known for one of the best programs in the nation. As a freshman I was beside myself that coach Connie Clark wanted me to play for her. The philosophy that the program believes in is one that I completely agree with. The family atmosphere was a major factor for me because I will be so far away from home. Remaining committed was easy -- I committed with four other players and we've grown close through the years and the relationship with the coaches has always come very naturally.

What has your high school experience been like knowing your college destination since freshman year?
I would have to say that my high school experience has been pretty normal. Freshman year pretty much felt like senior year because I was making the decision on where I would attend college. I think knowing where I was going definitely pushed me to work harder on and off the field. I feel like I've been in high school so much longer than just four years because I've wanted to just get to college.

How has playing for ACE prepared you for the next level facing college hitters?
Going to such a small high school definitely is a challenge for preparing for next level hitters but with my sister's help I have worked on the spin on my ball as well as hitting my spots. (My sister) Charisma, who is my catcher for high school and travel, pushes me on my mental game by thinking about pitch counts and what pitch to throw to certain batters.

What would you say is your greatest strength as a pitcher?
I would say my greatest strength as a pitcher is my mental game. I keep my composure and make sure I'm focused on the batter that I am facing. Keeping my attitude the same throughout the entire game has been very beneficial as a pitcher.

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Rapid-Fire with Chloe Romero

What is more exciting: throwing a perfect game or hitting for the cycle?
This is definitely a hard choice, but I would say hitting for the cycle because I do not hit in travel, so it was more memorable for me. However, throwing a perfect game is also awesome and something that I have always worked for.

What will you miss the most about California?
I think what I'll miss the most about California is my family of course, but the beach is also a factor.

How much of a factor was In-N-Out having locations in Austin for signing with the Longhorns?!
It was a major factor for sure, just kidding, but it was definitely a bonus.

Have you decided on your major or area of study at Texas?
No, I have not yet decided.

What is your favorite pre-game or post-game tradition?
I don't have a pre-game tradition. However, I do have a pre-pitch tradition. Before every pitch I go and grab chalk, wipe it off, and than wipe the mound with my foot and get ready to pitch.

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