The University of Texas at Austin Athletics
Softball Q&A: USA Softball's Taylor Thom
06.19.2013 | Softball
Rising senior was one of 18 selected for the 2013 USA Softball Women's National Team.
Alex Hubbard, Texas Media Relations
AUSTIN, Texas – This week, TexasSports.com had a chance to sit down with Texas shortstop Taylor Thom, who has been named to the 2013 USA Softball Women's National Team.Â
Thom and the rest of Team USA report to Oklahoma City on July 5 to start practice. The squad will have a scrimmage against Australia on July 10 and then play in the following three events:
July 11-14: World Cup of Softball VIII (Oklahoma City)
July 16-22: Canadian Open Fast Pitch International Championship (Surrey, British Columbia)
Aug. 5-18: Pan American Games qualifier (San Juan, Puerto Rico)
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Q: First of all, congratulations from all Longhorns on making Team USA this summer. What was the tryout experience like in Oklahoma City?
A: Well, thank you very much. The experience was absolutely amazing. I went up there and got to play with some of the best players in the country, so that was awesome. Being able to wear USA across my chest is a great feeling.
Q: How does it feel to be a part of Team USA?
A: It is so surreal. Growing up, you dream about playing for Team USA your whole life. When I got that email with my name on it, I just jumped up and was like, "Oh my gosh!" I didn't really know how to feel. I am just so excited.
Q: How will playing with all of these great players help you?
A: Just being around great players makes you better. These girls are also great people, too. I will have a great time getting to know all them better and playing with them.
It is a real fun environment. I am really going to enjoy it.
Q: You get another chance to play with Taylor Hoagland this summer. How exciting is that for you two?
A: It is going to be amazing. I was sad when we lost in Oklahoma City at the Women's College World Series. And thinking about never getting to play with Taylor and those girls again kind of hurt. So, for Taylor and I to get this chance again will be great.
Q: You will have a busy schedule this summer. Are you excited about traveling around?
A: Yes. The only place I have ever been outside of the country is Mexico, so I am excited to get to go to Canada and Puerto Rico.
Q: How will this experience with Team USA help you prepare for next season?
A: It will definitely help me continue to build my confidence. I still have moments where I may struggle, but knowing that I was able to play on Team USA and have this experience will make me a better player all-around.
Q: What is the one thing you want to take away from this experience?
A: To enjoy it. It is such an amazing thing, and I want to make sure I enjoy every bit of it.
