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.
On deck is sophomore right-handed pitcher, Samantha Yarbrough.
Q: Why did you choose to play softball at Auburn?
Yarbrough: I was raised an Auburn fan, and everyone in my family loves Auburn. Half of my family lives in Auburn; so if I ever need anything, I will always have people super close. Auburn is a wonderful place. It is in the middle of everything. The school is amazing, the athletics are outstanding, the softball program has a championship mentality and it's like a home away from home. When I stepped on campus, I felt like I was supposed to be here. There was no transition at all, so I knew this was the right decision. The happiest and best decision I have ever made was choosing to come here.
Q: What is your favorite Auburn sport other than softball?
Yarbrough: Football! I am a huge Auburn Football fan and always have been.
Q: What is your favorite place to go on vacation?
Yarbrough: I love traveling to the mountains because it's a change of scenery from the normal beach trip that we would usually take.
Q: What has been the highlight of your softball career so far?
Yarbrough: Definitely coming to Auburn; but before now, it probably would have to be winning the state championship my senior year through the losers bracket after we lost our first game.
Q: What jersey number will you wear and does it hold a special meaning to you?
Yarbrough: I wear #1. I have worn #13 my whole life; but when I got to Auburn, it was a fresh start at a new place. I went out of my comfort zone and chose a new number. New year, new place, new goals, new number.
Q: What is your favorite fruit and your least favorite vegetable?
Yarbrough: I am a fruit and veggie fanatic, so there's not really one I do or don't like the most. Maybe mangos for the fruit. Then the least favorite veggie would be none because I love all of them.
Q: Which do you prefer, hitting or defense?
Yarbrough: Defense, of course! I love pitching, the ball being in my hand and the role of being involved in every play.
Q: What is your favorite dessert?
Yarbrough: I'd say cookie dough 100%. What's not to love about cookie dough? It was meant to be eaten raw.
Q: If Auburn Softball could play in a tournament anywhere in the world, where would you want to play?
Yarbrough: Sydney, Australia - I've always wanted to go there!
Q: As a newcomer, how do you plan to try and make an immediate impact on the program this year?
Yarbrough: I plan to try and make an immediate impact this year by working super hard, doing what's needed to be great and then carrying it onto the field. I plan to be full of positive energy, only worry about controlling the things I can control and working hard to be the best version of myself.
Q: If you could give a message to the Auburn family would what it be?
Yarbrough: Thank you so much for welcoming me with such open arms. It means the world to me. I am so thankful and happy to be in the best place on Earth, and I am so glad that I get the chance to represent this wonderful place with Auburn across the front of my jersey. I can't wait to see all of you this season! War Eagle!