Around the Horn with Mandy Burford
4/25/2005 12:00:00 AM | Softball
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With seven seniors close to wrapping up their softball careers at the Capstone, Coach Patrick Murphy can sleep easier knowing he has quite a stable of young talent waiting to fill their shoes. Among his rising stars is infielder Mandy Burford, a sophomore from Anniston. A two-sport star and two-time county champion in softball at Saks High School, Mandy brings an effective mix of speed and power to this year’s squad. Named the “Anniston Star Player of the Year” in 2002, Burford is prepping to be one of Murphy’s go-to players as this year’s team barrels toward the post-season. Recently, Mandy took time out to discuss her maturation as a player as well as her team’s progress.
What do you do in the off-season to improve on your softball skills? Any specific workouts, etc?
"Last year, I had 2 goals for the off-season; to stay in good shape, and improve my offensive game. This year will probably be the same."
In your opinion, what have you improved this year from last year?
"I guess one thing I have improved on is “the speed of the game.” I've tried to make the adjustment from moving from high school to college softball."
How do you feel about this team’s chances in the postseason?
"The team is very focused. We know that making it to the World Series is in our reach and each day we work to prepare to win THE championship. I am very confident in our chances of winning it all."
What is your favorite thing to do off the field?
"I love going to the beach and spending time with my friends and family. I also love to sleep!!"
As a sophomore, do you have any plans for after college? USA Softball?
"I plan on finishing college with a degree in Accounting. Who knows after that?"
