Jillian Saiza is freshman outfielder for the women’s softball team at Fullerton College. Saiza is originally from Santa Fe Springs, Calif. and has been playing softball for close to 14 years. She currently has the highest batting average on the team, batting .412 in 17 plate appearances, including one triple and five stolen bases.

Hornet: How did you get started playing softball?

Jillian Saiza: My dad. He played baseball when he was younger. His whole side of the family did. I actually started in t-ball and then baseball first, before I switched to softball.

Hornet: What, if anything, did you gain from playing baseball first?

Saiza: I think it helped me with learning the fundamentals of the game. It helped me develop the basics of throwing and hitting the ball.

Hornet: Where do you see yourself in five years?

Saiza: I plan on playing here for the next couple years, then I want to transfer to Hope International University to play for them and pursue my masters in athletic training.

Hornet: What do plan on doing after you graduate?

Saiza: I want to start working as a trainer at the high school level and hopefully college after that.

Hornet: Growing up playing baseball and softball, who were your major influences?

Saiza: Growing up my major influences were mostly my dad and my uncle. My uncle almost made it to the major leagues, but ended up getting injured. That whole side of my family were ballplayers.”