University of Mary Washington sophomore Caitlin Baker, this week’s INTRODUCING … featured student-athlete, has been an important addition to the field hockey roster from the day she first stepped foot on campus. She scored a pair of game-winning goals last year and helped the Eagles win the 2010 CAC title. She was recognized by the coaches as the CAC Rookie of the Year. This year, she is third on the team in goals, assists, points and leads the 18th-ranked Eagles with game-winning goals, including Tuesday’s (10/18) overtime game-winner at CAC rival St. Mary’s, which clinched third place in the 2011 CAC standings and a home game in the upcoming playoffs.
Briefly, what is your background in the sport you play? I’ve been playing field hockey since the 6th grade and this is my second year on the team at UMW.
What is your favorite spot on campus? My favorite place on campus is The Nest. It’s the central spot where most of my friends go to eat and hang out in between classes so it gives me a chance to catch up with people and get a nice break.
Outside of your home and campus, where is your favorite place visit? My favorite place to visit is Disney World. My family goes to Disney at least once every year ever since I was little. It’s one of the few times when all of us are together, stress free and having fun.
Other than your team, what organization (s) do you participate in (on campus or off campus)? I’m one of the field hockey SAAC representatives and play intramural soccer and basketball.
Briefly describe the most memorable experience during your collegiate athletic career. My most memorable experience was winning CAC championship last year.
What is the most important societal issue facing college students? I believe the biggest issue is the economy. As a college student I am worried about job opportunities when I graduate.
If you could change any one item in the world (in your personal life, school, community, amateur or professional sports, national/international issue, etc.), what would it be, why, and how would you do it? I would try to decrease the amount of poverty in the world by volunteering my time and money to help the less fortunate.
What is your major in college, and what is the most important thing you learned in that discipline? I am undecided on my major as of now, but leaning towards psychology.
Other than your family members, who was the most influential person in your life? Summer Vanni, my high school field hockey coach, has been very influential. She came to my school my junior year and turned our entire program around. Not only did she make me a better field hockey player and give me the chance to play in college, but she also made me a better person as well.
What is your favorite form of entertainment? Music is my favorite form of entertainment. I wouldn’t be able to survive without my ipod, I bring it everywhere and you can always tell what mood I am in based on the music that I’m listening to at the time.
What is your favorite source of information (TV, book, magazine, website, friends in dining hall, etc.) I read a lot but usually that’s just for pleasure. Most of the information I get regarding news would have to come from my friends, since I’m usually too busy to watch TV.
If you could give one piece of advice to elementary school children, what would that advice be? Have fun being a kid while you still can.
Outside of the Capital Athletic Conference, who or what is your favorite sports person or team? I’m a huge football fan, college and NFL. My entire family are die hard Alabama fans and my favorite NFL team is the Steelers.
Name three (3) people, real or fictional, living or dead, that you'd like to have dinner with?
Paul “Bear” Bryant because he was one of the greatest coaches of all time.
Orlando Bloom because he has always been my celebrity crush.
Jerome Bettis because he was and always will be my favorite athlete.
