Dickinson State Athlete of the Week - Caitlyn Welch

During a doubleheader with Presentation College (S.D.) and a four-game series against Bellevue University (Neb.), freshman third baseman Caitlyn Welch appeared in four games. Over 11 at-bats, she recorded five hits, including a double, three RBIs and three runs scored. She also drew a walk and struck out just once.

Welch fought through a 10-game hitless streak, but now has a base knock in four of her last six games.

DP: Where are you from and why did you choose Dickinson State?

CW: "I'm from Fallon, Nevada and I chose Dickinson State because it has a great program for what I want to be."

DP: How long have you been playing softball and what is your favorite part?

CW: "I've been playing softball for six years. My favorite part is getting to give it my all every play."

DP: What is your major?

CW: "My major is elementary education."

DP: Do you participate in anything else on campus?

CW: "No."

DP: Do you feel at all intimidated being a freshman in a position that sees so much action?

CW: "I used to, but now I've been starting to believe in myself more and know that I can play that position."

DP: You had a really good offensive weekend. What would you say was your key to success?

CW: "I really do have to say, just saying, 'Yes, yes, no' to pitch calling and knowing what pitch is my pitch, what pitch I could hit, what pitch I couldn't hit. And knowing I couldn't get down on myself for one at-bat. There's always another at-bat I can show what I can do."

DP: If you had to eat one food for the rest of your life, what would it be?

CW: "Pizza."

DP: Who is your favorite athlete?

CW: "Buster Posey."

DP: If you had to vacation one place for the rest of your life, where would it be?

CW: "Belize."

DP: What is the best show or movie you watched recently?

CW: "The Cowboys, with John Wayne."

DP: What is your spirit animal?

CW: "My friends' dog, Gracie."

DP: Who or what is your biggest inspiration to succeed?

CW: "My Dad. He's done so much for me, and he's always wanted me to be my best and now's my chance to prove that I can be my best."