In 1997, Auburn softball competed in its inaugural season. Throughout the 2022 campaign, we are celebrating the many faces, moments and victories that have shaped our program over the last 25 years.
As part of our 25 Years of Auburn Softball celebration, we're checking in with alumni from every era of the program to share their memories of being a Tiger.
A two-time SEC Academic honor roll member and a 2016 NFCA All-America Scholar Athlete, Jenna Abbott (2014-17) was a two-way player that saw time in the circle and in the batting order and was a member of Auburn's two Women's College World Series teams.
Q: Why did you decide to continue your softball career at Auburn?
Abbott: When I went on my first visit, I instantly fell in love with the town, school and softball program. There was room for growth, and I could see myself masking the most of my time at Auburn.
Q: What is your favorite on-field memory?
Abbott: My pinch-hit, walk-off home run against Minnesota in the 2014 Regionals Finals game.
Q: What do you consider your biggest accomplishment during your collegiate career – on or off the field?
Abbott: Receiving my bachelor's and master's degrees that have allowed me to step into my dream job as a nursing home administrator. Getting your dream job at 25 is pretty cool, right?
Q: What is one of your favorite memories with a teammate?
Abbott: Watching Austyn West trip over the hurdles at a workout and pretend to break her ankle.
Q: Looking back at your career, what is one word you'd use to describe it?
Abbott: Challenging. It was the hardest, but most rewarding thing I've ever done.
Q: Who influenced your softball career the most?
Abbott: My parents.
Q: What was your favorite uniform combo?
Abbott: Blue top, white belt, blue pants with white socks.
Q: Why advice would you give to current/future Auburn softball student-athletes?
Abbott: Ride the waves. The lows feel awful and sometimes more frequent, but the highs – even if there's only one – make it all worth it.
Q: If you can give a message to the Auburn Family, what would it be?
Abbott: Carosone for President.
Q: What degree did you earn? What is your current career path?
Abbott: I earned my bachelor's in public administration and my master's in adult education. I'm a licensed nursing home administrator.