Around the Horn with Michelle Menningmann
5/20/2005 12:00:00 AM | Softball
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By Adam Blevins, UA Media Relations
The Alabama softball team is morphing into a national powerhouse. Women from all over the United States are taking notice of the determination and grit of the Crimson Tide Softball on the diamond. A young girl from Palm Beach Gardens, Fla. saw a future with a team that was committed to winning. Sophomore, Michelle Menningmann is taking it all in stride. Making her way up the ranks as a utility player for the Crimson Tide Menningmann is showing she has what it takes to be a difference maker for the Tide.
When you got your first collegiate hit, how did that make you feel?
"Pretty excited, because I felt I belonged here, that I could play with anyone."
What influenced your decision to come to Alabama from Florida?
"They have a very good program. It seems like Alabama is ranked every year. I could feel the tradition here on my recruiting trip. Also, they have an excellent film school."
What is your favorite thing about your Alabama teammates?
"Our ability to have fun. We work hard, and the camaraderie on the team is great. We are always laughing and getting along."
Who would you say you look up to the most in softball and life?
"When I was younger I admired Dot Richardson. She was an Olympic Softball Player, and also a doctor. It was amazing that she could be so good at a sport, and also have an amazing career in medicine. I also admire my younger sister and what she does."
When watching softball you can't help but notice how fast they pitch, have you ever been hit by a pitch or had any other painful experience in your career?
"I have been hit once in college. The worst experience though was when I fouled a ball off my shin, I can still feel tightness and it happened a year ago."
The Crimson Tide hosts the NCAA Region 12 Championship this weekend hosting the Arizona State Sun Devils, Hofstra Pride and the Mississippi Valley State Delta Devilettes. Arizona State and Hofstra will open action on Friday at 4:00 p.m. followed by the top-seeded Tide and Mississippi Valley State at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are still available and can be purchased by calling 205.348.BAMA (2262) or fans can purchase their tickets at the gates on Friday.
