FARMVILLE, Va. – Longwood University junior softball standout Megan Baltzell/Stafford has been named the Longwood Female
ARMS Software Athlete of the Week. In four games at the Longwood Invitational last week, the catcher led the Lancers at the plate with seven hits (.538), six runs and six RBI. Against Rhode Island on March 8, she logged a two-run home run. She knocked in another two runs with a double on March 9 against Delaware State. Through 16 games, Baltzell paces the Lancers with a .457 average, 21 hits, eight doubles, an .804 slugging percentage and a .569 on-base percentage.
Question and Answer Session with Megan Baltzell and Travis Lyles
TL: What was it like to be named All-American in 2013?
MB: It was an honor, and kind of unbelievable, coming from a small town and living my dream.
TL: How have you been able to get off to another great start this year at the plate?
MB: By trying to stay disciplined in my at-bats, and by getting more walks. I know that my pitch is going to come; it’s all about patience.
TL: What is it like to be in a leadership role on the team?
MB: We have a big group of juniors, who all contribute to the team leadership. We all realize the responsibility that we have and take it very seriously.
TL: What is the team’s goal for 2014?
MB: To repeat our Big South Tournament championship and win our first game ever in regionals.
TL: What is different about this year for the team?
MB: We have a couple of freshman pitchers that we are really excited about, and we have people stepping up to replace the people we lost over the off-season.
TL: Do you have any personal goals for this season?
MB: To help the team win as many games as possible, and to make sure I don’t directly try to outdo my 2013 season.
TL: Who is your role model at Longwood?
MB: Coach Riley for sure. She has been through so much, and always helps me and the team work towards a common goal.
TL: What is your favorite type of music?
MB: Definitely country. I am a big country girl.
TL: Who is your favorite athlete?
MB: Derek Jeter. He is a living legend, and a class act. I am really sad that this is his last year.
TL: What do you want to do after you graduate from Longwood?
MB: I want to start my coaching career in college softball and hopefully be a full-time Division I head coach some day.
TL: If you could pick another sport to play at Longwood, what would it be and why?
MB: I wouldn’t mind playing basketball. I grew up playing basketball my whole life, and I really enjoy playing.
