Alex Hupp Q&A

Alex Hupp is a freshman pitcher from Olathe, Kan. She attended Olathe East, the same school as former Husker and two-time All-Big 12 performer Trisha Tannahill, as well as 2007-08 recruit Ashley Guile, who signed a national letter-of-intent with NU last fall.

 

Hupp was a first-team NFCA High School All-American in her senior season when she went 19-0 with a 0.10 ERA in the circle. Hupp also swings a powerful bat, as she hit .531 as a junior with 11 doubles, six home runs and a .988 slugging percentage while earning third-team NFCA High School All-America honors. She is expected to see time in the circle, but should also see action in the outfield or as the designated player.

 

One of three freshmen on the 2007 roster, Hupp is happy to be a Husker and is eager for the season to begin. Below is a question-and-answer session with Hupp.

 

How have you enjoyed your time at Nebraska so far and how are practices going for you?

"It’s been a great experience so far with school, the team and learning to be on my own. Practices have been very educational with great intensity. I’m definitely loving it."

 

How excited are you for the upcoming season and is there any trip you are really looking forward to?

"I am so excited for the season to get going and for us to show that Nebraska is coming back strong. The trips that I am really excited for are the Hawaii trip, where I have never been, the Las Vegas trip, where again I have never been, and going to play in Lawrence, Kan., so I will be able to see my Kansas folks."

 

What are your personal expectations and goals for the upcoming season?

"I expect myself to compete in every aspect of every game that I play. My major goal is to adjust as quickly as possible so I can help my team with learning the outfield, relaxing and let my body work together with pitching. With hitting, (my goal is to) relax my hands and go for as many RBIs as I can."

 

Which do you like better, pitching or hitting?

"I love to do both!"

 

How do you see your role on the team this season?

"I see myself helping my team with never giving in at the plate or in the circle."

 

Without having played a regular-season game yet, what would you say has been your toughest adjustment to competing at the Division I level?

"I would have to say that the hardest thing is being able to stay intense for more than one game. I realized in the fall that after one game, I was exhausted mentally more than physically."

 

What made you want to attend Nebraska?

"The great coaching, facilities, academics and tradition. I also love how it is away from home but close enough for me with only being about an 2 hour and 45 minute drive."

 

As a freshman, how has the adjustment to living away from home and balancing school and softball gone for you thus far?

"I actually thought that it was going to be this really scary ordeal, but it hasn’t been all that bad. Yes, it’s been difficult with having to deal with being the new kid and not having my best friends from home here, but the team has been great with helping me deal with that and also my new friends here at Nebraska. The first semester for me was actually a pretty good one. I was definitely pleased and hope to only get better with my academics. During the second semester, I hope to not become overwhelmed during the season. It will be a learning experience."

 

What do you think fans can expect to see out of this team this season?

"They should expect to see some great defense, with amazing plays. They will be kept on the edge of their seats and will not be disappointed!"

 

What is the thing you like most about being a Husker?

"I love how the community respects the student-athletes and supports us. It’s a thrill to know that people are excited to see you play. Also, being a Husker, I know that around the nation people respect us and hold our teams in high regard."

 

When you’re not playing softball, what types of things do you like to do?

"I like to be around friends, either going out or staying in and watching movies. I like to laugh, work out, hang out by the pool in the summer, and go to concerts."