Q: How does it feel to be a PSAC Athlete of the week!
A: It feels awesome! This has been a goal of mine since I first got to college, and to finally see it happen is just such a cool moment. I’ve worked really hard for this, and it means a lot to be recognized. I’m super grateful for my teammates and coaches who have been supporting me the whole time!
Q: Name? Grade? Position on the team?
A: Emma Little, Senior, Catcher
Q: How long have you played?
A: I’ve been playing since I was 6 years old. My older sister, Megan played, so I always looked up to her and wanted to be just like her. Plus, my dad was a baseball player, so the game has kind of always been in my blood. Growing up around it made me fall in love with the sport early on.
Q: What did it take to get where you are today in terms of athletics?
A: It’s taken a lot of commitment and hard work over the years. I started playing travel ball when I was 10, so from a young age, my life revolved around the game. I would spend endless weekends at tournaments, on long drives, and always being on the go. But I loved it. When I think about my childhood, I think about softball and all the friends and memories I made along the way.
Q: How do you balance an active student life with an active athletic life?
A: Now that I’m a senior, I’ve definitely learned how to handle the balance a lot better. It took some time, but I’ve been successful at managing both. I have been a scholar athlete all 4 years here which is credit to how I have balanced both. My most difficult semester was Fall of 2024 because I was student teaching. I had long days but thanks to my organization and time management skills, I was very successful.
Q: What is one thing you would tell all younger aspiring athletes if you could?
A: I’d say that it’s never that serious. Seriously, just have fun with it. At the end of the day, it’s a game, and you’re supposed to enjoy playing. Don’t get so caught up in being perfect or stressing over every mistake. Some of the best memories come from just having fun with your teammates and loving the game for what it is. 16 years later, I still love the game, because I’ve always made sure to have fun!
Q: How important is your sport in your life? Give us a look at your background!
A: My sport has pretty much been my whole life. I’ve been playing since I was six, and it’s shaped so much of who I am. From travel ball to now playing in college, it’s given me some of my best memories, closest friends, and toughest lessons. It’s crazy to think this is my last season. I know I’m really going to miss it when I play my final game. It’s been such a huge part of my life for so long, and I’m just trying to soak in every moment while I still can.
Q: This is a great accomplishment, what goals and accomplishments do you keep/pride yourself on?
A: Being named PSAC Athlete of the Week is definitely something I’m proud of for accomplishing. I also take a lot of pride in being a scholar-athlete all four years because it hasn’t always been easy balancing everything, but I’ve stayed consistent. Starting since my freshman year is another big one. It meant a lot to earn that spot early on and be able to grow from there. Finally, being named team captain this year has been super special. Just knowing my teammates and coaches trust and respect me like that means everything.
