The University of Texas at Austin Athletics
Get to know No. 7 Softball's Alyssa Washington
02.18.2021 | Softball
Learn more about the high-profile freshman infielder from Abilene, Texas
Learn a little more about Texas freshman infielder Alyssa Washington in the second of our "Get to Know" features!
Alyssa Washington - 5-5 - SS/IF - Abilene, Texas - Abilene High School
What were the major reasons you decided Texas was the right place for you to come to school and play softball?
Growing up, I would visit my family that lives in Austin every summer, so I was already familiar with the area. When I was in eighth grade, my uncle, who is a die-hard Texas fan, took me to a UT volleyball and basketball game. The atmosphere was unlike anything I had ever seen before, and the fan base is extremely loyal. After that weekend of games, it was a no-brainer that Texas was where I wanted to go to school and play softball.
How did you get started playing softball?
I began playing softball when I was six years old. My mom was a basketball player, so she always wanted me to try out for basketball when I was a kid. My aunt loved to watch softball, so she convinced my mom into taking me to softball tryouts. I did not want to play softball AT ALL. I had no interest in playing or going to my first practice. Around that time, the Hershey's cookies and cream candy bars came out, so my mom told me that if I would go to at least one practice then she would get me a Hershey bar. I accepted the offer, and the rest is history.
Name three things interesting about you that people don't know…
- I come from a pretty big family. I have three older brothers, one little brother and a younger sister.
- In my free time to clear my mind I love to draw portraits in pencil
- I can listen to literally any kind of music. When I'm in the car, I go from country to R&B to rock all in one car ride
If you had a full weekend off from softball what would you do to fill all the time if you could literally do anything or go anywhere?
I would go to Hawaii, stay at the beach all weekend and enjoy the good vibes there
If you could have one superpower, what would it be and why?
I would want to be able to teleport to any place in the world at any time. Just in case I'm ever stressed out and want to be in a different setting, or even if I'm running late and need to get to a place ASAP.
What's your favorite athletic memory or most memorable win from your time playing softball?
When I hit a walk-off during my junior year playoff series. Remembering my team and the fans going insane and rushing the field still gives me chills.
Where do you see yourself in the next 10 years?
I see myself being a physical therapist for a sports team
What's your favorite…
Phone app: TikTok
Color: Yellow
Food: My mom's enchiladas
Sports Team: Los Angeles Angels
Athlete: Christian Yelich
Reality Show: Jersey Shore
Show to Binge Watch: Good Girls
Movie: Any of the Twilight movies
Musical artist: Kehlani
What's your favorite class so far at Texas?
My favorite class at Texas is "Gameplan for Winning at Life." The professor teaches us about so many different ways to view and feel things that we tend to not realize. He goes deep into describing vulnerability and empathy while the class shows many different viewpoints that really open my eyes.
Who's your favorite softball player of all time?
Former Team USA standout Jessica Mendoza is definitely my favorite. She played with grit and was an amazing competitor. She showed examples of a true leader and had a fire in her eyes every time she stepped on the field.
Where's the best place you've ever been on a road trip, vacation or school trip?
Colorado, specifically Estes Park, is my favorite place to vacation. The view once you get to the top of the mountain is breathtaking, and the wildlife you see along the way there is amazing. I love going in the summer because the weather is amazing and there is still a little bit of snow on the mountains.
What do you hope people will remember about you from your time playing softball at the University of Texas?
I want to not only be remembered as an athlete but an all-around good person. I want to be able to have girls look up to me and see a strong leader while also being a great teammate.
What do you hope to do for a career following your playing days at Texas?
I aspire to be a Physical Therapist after college. I've personally have had to go through a lot of time in physical therapy, and I found it so interesting and awesome that they're able to help out athletes while also building relationships with them along the way.
