Nov. 22, 2006

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. - Each week heading into the 2007 Samford softball season, a different player will be highlighted in an edition of "Bulldog Talk", a question-and-answer session with one of this year's players. This week's featured player is freshman utility player Brittany Simao.

The Samford softball team will begin play in its 2007 season Feb. 9-11 at the prestigious Florida State Tournament. The opening date is roughly 12 weeks away and each of Samford's 15 softball players will have their turn to be featured in the inaugural edition of "Bulldog Talk".

Simao, a native of Concord, Calif., is the fourth Samford softball player to be featured this year. She is a true freshman utility player and was a prep standout at Berean Christian High School.

The following is a transcript from Simao's edition of "Bulldog Talk".

How is the transition from the West coast to Alabama going?
"It is going very well. It took some time getting use to the weather, people and the area, but for the most part it's been enjoyable."

Outside of softball, as a freshman, what has been the biggest adjustment for you?
"Getting use to the college life and being on my own." Being a freshman is a neat experience, what is the major difference between high school ball and college ball? "College ball has a quicker pace and is more competitive. Also the coaches push you more in college to get better."

What is it like being a Samford softball player?
"It is very exciting and very exhausting. Softball is no walk in the park and it takes a lot of hard work and dedication to play this sport. But all in all, it is an honor to be a part of the Bulldog family."

If you could script your first collegiate at-bat, how would it go?
"The score is tied and there are two outs. The count is 3-2 and there's a runner on second base. I just stepped back into the box and the pitcher winds up - here's the pitch - SMACK!!! I hit a line drive to the center field fence. By the time the ball is thrown in to the field the runner has scored and I am standing on second. That would be awesome!!!"

Check out next week's edition of "Bulldog Talk", as Samford softball's featured player will be senior shortstop Liz Pearse.

Pearse will be a four-year starter at shortstop and will be looked on to provide senior leadership to this season's team. She started in 55 of Samford's 58 games last year and finished the campaign with 35 hits, 19 RBI, 11 runs and eight stolen bases.