As fall makes its presence known on the Plains, Auburn softball begins a new chapter in its storied legacy. A group of nine freshmen join the squad, ushering in a new spin and new attitude for the Tigers. Before Auburn ends its fall slate this weekend, we'll introduce one of the new members of the Auburn softball family that is already making an immediate impact. Next to step up to the plate is Abbey Smith, an outfielder from Austin, Texas.
Q: What made Auburn stand out from the other schools in your recruiting process?
Smith: Auburn stood out from the very first moment I stepped on this campus. I knew Auburn had a great softball program, but for me there was so much more to take into consideration when choosing a school. I loved everything about the campus and how it immediately felt like a second home for me. I knew I could see myself living here and going to school here, along with playing softball.
Q: What jersey number will you wear, and does it hold any special meaning to you?
Smith: I will be wearing 20. I have been wearing 20 for the past six years. I changed my number to 20 because of Breja'e Washington, who played at the University of Texas. She was my mentor when I began slapping. The number has stuck with me ever since then.
Q: Did you play any other sports growing up?
Smith: Along with playing softball since I was four years old, I did gymnastics for nine years, volleyball for three years and track for six years.
Q: If you could have dinner with three people, dead or alive, who would they be?
Smith: Blake Shelton, Luke Combs and George Strait because I love country music, and they are three of my favorite artists.
Q: Who is your favorite professional sports team?
Smith: Coming from Texas, I am a huge Houston Astros fan. I have always been an Astros fan, but beginning from 2013 to 2017, I competed in softball/baseball competitions representing the Astros. Ever since then, I have loved them even more and was even able to get a custom jersey signed by the whole team.
Q: What makes the coaching staff at Auburn different from other coaches you've had in your career?
Smith: Since we see them basically everyday, whether it's on the field, in the weight room or at team dinners, they know all sides of us. They are able to connect with us in so many ways, which helps how they can interact and specifically coach each player individually.
Q: If you could go on any TV show, which would you choose?
Smith: I would love to go on Fear Factor. All of the insane stunts people have to finish on that show look like so much fun, even though I would be absolutely terrified of some of those things the contestants have to do.
Q: If you could have any animal in the world as a pet, what would you choose?
Smith: It would 100% be a monkey. I absolutely love monkeys, and I see videos of people having them as pets all the time. It just makes me want one so bad.
Q: What is the best vacation you've ever been on?
Smith: Growing up, most of the vacations I went on revolved around softball tournaments. However, my favorite family vacation was going to Las Vegas. It was such a nice getaway, and I had so much fun being able to spend time with my family not at a softball field.
Q: What Auburn tradition are you most excited to experience?
Smith: The most exciting tradition at Auburn is rolling Toomer's Corner after any sport pulls out a big win. It feels so much more special because it is something that isn't going on at other schools.
Q: What makes Auburn softball special?
Smith: Auburn softball is such a special program to be apart of. The connection this team has not only on the field, but off the field as well, is so great. We are all friends and hang out off the field all the time. However, when we get on the field, we are good at knowing that it is game time and time to focus and lock in.