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. As the smester winds down, we'll introduce one of the new members of the Auburn softball family that is already making an immediate impact. Stepping to the plate is Kenadie Cooper, a Georgia product and recent graduate of East Coweta High School.
Q: Why did you choose to continue your career at Auburn?
Cooper: I have been an Auburn fan since I was born, so playing softball here was always my dream. I've always said that I bleed Orange and Blue, which after spending some time here, could not be more true! As soon as you step on campus, you can feel the awesome atmosphere which is created by a super supportive community. Also, my entire family is from Alabama, so it is so cool to get to see them at games. I have baby pictures of me in an Auburn cheerleader uniform, so even then, I knew this is where I was meant to be!
Q: What is an interesting fact about yourself that the Auburn family should know?
Cooper: I love to travel! I have been to New York, California, Washington D.C., Virginia, South Carolina, Texas, Oklahoma, New Orleans, Kentucky, Las Vegas, and obviously, all over the southeast. Out of the country, I have been to St. Thomas, Puerto Rico, and the Bahamas. I still have a ton of places on my list left to visit as well.
Q: What is your favorite social media platform to use?
Cooper: My favorite social media platform is TikTok. It is for sure my favorite distraction. Everyone knows I love making them with my teammates, so if you see me on your For You page, drop a like please! You can also follow me @kenadiecooper.
Q: What has been the highlight of your softball career so far?
Cooper: Winning a state championship my senior year of high school. Dog piling after the final out was a feeling I will never forget. My team had worked so hard together for four years, so seeing the reward was such an unforgettable moment.
Q: What is your favorite holiday?
Cooper: My favorite holiday is Christmas. One of my family's favorite things to do is ride around and look at Christmas lights. I also love drinking hot chocolate and eating great food on Christmas Eve with my grandparents. Fun fact, instead of putting out milk and cookies for Santa Claus, my family has always put out an oatmeal creme pie and a cold Dr. Pepper for him to enjoy.
Q: Who is a celebrity you admire?
Cooper: I admire Pink. She obviously has some absolute bangers, but she also balances all that by being a mom and working with charities. I watched a documentary about her this summer, and she has an awesome vibe. She is super powerful and confident, and on top of all that wears the coolest clothes.
Q: If you could have any animal in the world as a pet, which would you choose?
Cooper: Out of all the exotic animals in the world... I think I would stick with a good ole wiener dog. As everyone on the team knows, I have a wiener dog named Tucker. He is my bestie, and I wouldn't trade him for any other animal in the world.
Q: What makes the coaching staff at Auburn different from other coaches you've had in your career?
Cooper: The coaches at Auburn are with us a lot, so getting to know them has been super easy. Even after a tough practice where they push us very hard, they all have the ability to make us laugh. I have really enjoyed my time with all of them.
Q: What advice would you give to your younger self who is just beginning her softball career?
Cooper: If I could go back, I would tell myself to not be afraid of making mistakes. I would tell her to be more confident in yourself because you have no idea what you are capable of.
Q: What is your favorite movie of all time?
Cooper: Anyone that knows me knows my favorite movie is "Twilight." It has been something my mom and I have watched since I was little, so watching it brings back great memories. It gets a lot of hate, but it is seriously the best movie ever made. Don't knock it 'til you watch it!
Q: If you had to switch sports for a week, what Auburn team would you join?
Cooper: I would play basketball because I think it would be so fun to play in front of all of the Auburn fans. I haven't been to a game yet, but I can't wait to go to some. I bet it would be so hype to run out on the court and hear everyone cheering for you.
Q: What makes Auburn softball special?
Cooper: Auburn softball is special because we truly are all best friends. Our time together is always filled with laughs and so much joy. We do this while also pushing and encouraging each other to be the best we can be every day. We have amazing team chemistry, which has already shown with our play on the field. Auburn softball has brought me my best friends in the entire world, and I can't wait to see the woman I become after four years of being surrounded by such amazing people.