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.
Stepping to the plate is Maris Medina (2011-14). Medina is a four-time SEC Academic Honor Roll member. The San Antonio, Texas, native played in over 90 contests for the Tigers.
Q: Why did you decide to continue your softball career at Auburn?
Medina: The moment I stepped onto campus for a visit, I fell in love with the town! I wanted a chance to compete for a national championship at the highest level.
Q: What is your favorite on-field memory?
Medina: Beating Alabama in game two of our series at Tuscaloosa. It was "Kayla Braud Day." We were down one game already in the series. The stadium was packed, and we showed up and beat them! It was the most amazing feeling.
Q: What do you consider your biggest accomplishment during your collegiate career – on or off the field?
Medina: Being a part of a Division I softball team and competing at the highest level in college sports is a huge accomplishment. I'll always cherish and be proud of that as well as graduating with honors from the best school in the country.
Q: What is one of your favorite memories with a teammate?
Medina: One of my favorite memories was in 2011 at NCAA Regionals in Seattle, Washington with Morgan Murphy, Alyssia Palomino, Liana Wuchte, Lauren Shcmalz, Baylee Stephens and Amber Harrison. It was our off day and we explored all of Seattle together - drinking coffee at the original Starbucks, going to a Mariners game, going to the Space Needle, having dinner and laughing all day long. A long-lasting memory that I know we will all cherish forever.
Q: Looking back at your career, what is one word you'd use to describe it?
Medina: Unforgettable. The four years I spent at Auburn were so special and something I dreamed about doing since I was a little kid. I will never forget all the great times, tough workouts, early morning treatments, all-nighters studying with my friends and friendships I was fortunate to make with these girls. It was never easy but always worth the unforgettable memories.
Q: Who influenced your softball career the most?
Medina: My parents. As I get older, I realize how much time, money, effort and attention my parents gave to make my softball dreams come true. Without them, my softball career wouldn't have existed.
Q: What was your favorite uniform combo?
Medina: All navy with white belts and white socks.
Q: What advice would you give to current/future Auburn softball student-athletes?
Medina: Cherish and be grateful for the experiences you're having. Four years will fly by, and you'll reflect on them often in your life.
Q: If you can give a message to the Auburn Family, what would it be?
Medina: The Auburn community is so special! Near and dear to my heart, and I am so proud to be an Auburn alumna and be a fan for the rest of my life. War Eagle always!
Q: What degree did you earn? What is your current career path?
Medina: Marketing. I have worked for multiple professional sports teams and in collegiate athletics on marketing and social media teams. I am currently working for a digital marketing agency in Austin supervising a team.