As the offseason rolls along, we'd like to introduce the newcomers for the upcoming 2020 softball season. With first pitch set for Feb. 7 in Clearwater, Fla., at the NFCA Leadoff Classic, we'll check in with all 13 new additions to the squad.
Next up is freshman outfielder, Jaylin Calvert.
Q: How would your 10-year-old self react to the news that you would one day be playing DI softball?
Calvert: I would have been so surprised and been extremely excited. I would just be in awe at an accomplishment as amazing as this.
Q: What do you think you bring to the table for the team this year?
Calvert: I think I am a good teammate who brings a good attitude and positive energy to this team.
Q: What is your favorite home-cooked meal?
Calvert: My favorite home-cooked meal is biscuits and gravy. My mom has made biscuits and gravy for me since I was super little, and it is delicious!
Q: Do you have any pregame rituals?
Calvert: I'm not a very superstitious person, but I always listen to music before the game, and I always have my hair braided.
Q: What is the best place you've traveled for softball?
Calvert: My favorite place I have traveled for softball is California. The complex I played at was surrounded by mountains, so it was a really pretty place to play. The competition was amazing, so it was really fun to have close and competitive games. Also, my teammates and I got to explore all the different areas and beaches that California had to offer, so it was awesome.
Q: How is your hometown different from Auburn?
Calvert: My hometown is very small. We have a population of 2,000, so it is much bigger here. Also, there is so much more variety in everything from food to shopping here than in my hometown.
Q: What jersey number will you wear, and does it hold a special meaning to you?
Calvert: I wear number 24. I have worn this number for a long time, and my dad was number 24 when he played college basketball at Hanover College in Indiana.
Q: What is your major and what do you plan to do with it?
Calvert: My major is nutrition science with a concentration in pre-med. I plan to go to med school and become a doctor.
Q: Who is a celebrity you admire?
Calvert: I like Dan and Shay. I have seen them in concert twice, and I absolutely love their music.
Q: What does your typical off-season look like?
Calvert: It consists of lots of workouts and hitting sessions, but I also make sure to spend time with my family and friends over the holidays and breaks.
Q: What is your favorite memory with your teammates so far?
Calvert: My favorite memory with the team so far is when we had to run 300s the day before Thanksgiving break. This is one of my favorites because in the midst of shaky legs and tiredness, we came together and finished strong as a group. We grew as a team that day.