Q: Talk about your first encounter with sports...

A: My earliest sports memories are of the Villanova men's basketball games. My father is the timekeeper so I grew up going to all of the games. I was four when they won the national championship.

Q: What led or motivated you to play?

A: My parents always encouraged me to try different things. When I started with softball I became self-motivated because I realized how competitive I was and at the same time it was something I was enjoying. I also loved watching sports with my Dad, which only furthered my interest.

Q: In your hometown, what was the sports culture like for girls?

A: There is a strong history of successful female athletes in my town so it was really great to have role models and lots of different people to look up to.

Q: How did you get to where you are today and what would you attribute that to?

A: If you love to play, hard work and dedication become a part of your everyday life. I have been lucky to have a great support system and coaches who were motivating and pushed me to the best that I could be. I also set goals for myself and refused to settle for anything less. Being part of successful teams and having great teammates has allowed me to grow as an athlete and as a person.

Q: What has playing sports done for you?

A: Playing sports, especially at the college level has taught me many important life lessons and has shaped me into the person I am today. I have learned the importance of hard work, teamwork, and how to handle both success and failure. I have learned to live my life as a representative of my school and to make them proud. Student-athletes are a statement for what your university stands for.

Q: At what point did you realize you wanted to go to an Ivy League school?

A: During my junior year in high school I realized that my future should also involve competitive academics. Princeton was my answer to a good education, competitive sports, and a positive future.

Q: Is there a certain athlete you admire and why?

A: I admire Michael Jordan, not only because he is one of the best athletes to ever play a sport, but also because of his competitive spirit and for his love of the game. I also admire Lance Armstrong because of his incredible fortitude and his ability to survive a life-threatening illness and return to the pinnacle of his sport.

Q: What is the significance of Title IX to you?

A: Title IX opened up doors for all of the women athletes that have come before me. If it were not for their persistence and sacrifice, then I would not have had the awesome opportunities and experiences that I have been so fortunate to be a part of.

Q: In your opinion, what has been a shining moment in women's sports?

A: Whenever I see a women's sports team that has developed a following of people other than their parents. The US women's soccer team is a prime example. They raised the bar and proved that women are just as talented and can draw the crowds just as any men's team. Personally, when our team won the national championship, it went beyond any experience I have ever had.

Q: What would you tell young girls who are interested in getting to where you are now?

A: Work hard, and for the right reasons and the end result will get you to where you want to go. Never give up or settle for less than your best. Most importantly, have fun!