I had a chance to meet up with talented 2017 middle infielder Maddie Morgan of the Washington Ladyhawks on Saturday, Oct. 4, 2014 at the Showcase at Big League Dreams in West Covina, Calif.
In the video interview, Maddie talks about growing up a big fan of a Pac-12 school but couldn’t turn down the Crimson Tide after visiting the SEC school.
A serious 2017 Hot 100 candidate, Maddie is known for her intensity and big bat and talks about her game, how Alabama found her and what they like about her in the video clip below!
Also, be sure to learn more about Maddie in the Player Profile posted below the video which we published in March…
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PLAYER PROFILE: MADDIE MORGAN
Grad Year: 2017
Pos: SS/2B
High School: Lynnwood (Wash.)
GPA: 3.8
Club: Washington Ladyhawks-Miller
College: Alabama
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StudentSportsSoftball.com: You played in both PGF and ASA National Championships last year… describe those experiences, how they ended up and what are some of your best memories…
Maddie Morgan: I love being able to play against the best competition in the country, and I was able to play against some of the top teams in the nation at these tournaments. We didn’t win the tournaments but we competed at a high level and got some W’s. My favorite memory was beating the defending PGF champions in a close game.
SSS.com: It seems unusual that Alabama would find someone up in the Northwest… tell us how the Tide coaches found out about you and how the recruiting process went.
MM: I started writing letters to Coach Murphy about a year and a half ago to let them know that I was interested in their program. I believe that the first time they saw me in action was at the On-Deck camp, and the Independence Day tournament in Colorado last year. This fall while playing for the Washington Lady Hawks 18 Gold-Miller, I started to build my relationship with Coach Murphy and Coach Habetz. They continued to show interest in me by coming out and watching me play. In February I went to the University of Alabama for my unofficial visit.
SSS.com: When did you decide to commit and what led into the decision? When did you actually tell the coaches?
MM: After my unofficial visit, I just had that feeling that this is where I needed to be. After discussing it with my family, we felt like it was the right fit for me. I decided to commit to the University of Alabama on to morning of March 20th
SSS.com: How did you tell them you’d be playing for Alabama– in person, on the phone, on an unofficial visit?
MM: On the phone. We talked for a little while and that’s when I told him that I would be honored to be a part of the Crimson Tide.
SSS.com: Have you been to the campus and if so, what were you thoughts about the school and the program?
MM: I went on an unofficial visit in February. I fell in love with the family atmosphere, they made me feel welcome and a part of the traditions and culture at Alabama. The campus was beautiful, and the athletic facilities were amazing. It will be a great place for me to receive my education as well as continue playing the game I love at the highest level.
SSS.com: Any concerns about the distance and how you’ll be away from home?
MM: It is a long way from home, but I’m looking forward to joining my new family at the University of Alabama with the full support of my parents.
SSS.com: What do you think (or have others said) are your strengths as a softball player?
MM: I feel my strengths are my field presence, my work ethic, and my consistency at the plate.
SSS.com: What are some of the challenges you’ve overcome in your life that you’re most proud of?
MM: I’ve always been the youngest on my teams and I’ve had to earn respect of my teammates through my hard work and dedication.
Quick Hitters
How would you describe your personality and temperament on the athletic field?
I play with confidence and I have fun.
Along with softball, have you played other sports (if so, describe)…
I used to play soccer, and I still play basketball for my high school
Do you like to dance? Would you say your athleticism transfers to the dance floor or are you a total klutz?
I love to dance. But not all of my athletic ability makes it to the dance floor!
Fill in the blank… I’m happiest when: _______________________
… I’m playing the game I love.
What is the biggest problem you feel your generation is facing today?
We are uncomfortable talking face to face with others, because of texting and the internet.
Favorite food:
Pizza.
Least favorite food:
Mushrooms.
If you were handed a free plane ticket to anywhere in the world, where would you go?
Hawaii to visit my grandparents.
Up at the plate… 3-and-2 count. What is going through your mind?
Protect the plate, and win the battle.
What type of bat do you use (and do you like it)?
XENO, it has great pop.
What’s something unusual or different about you that few know?
When I was younger I was obsessed with Spiderman.
What’s one thing you wouldn’t be caught dead doing?
Not supporting my teammates.
Any softball superstitions or rituals you go through?
I always listen to music before my games.
Do you have a favorite phrase or motto you apply in your life?
Do what you do and be you.