University of Minnesota Athletics
Catching Up With Sam Macken
1/30/2017 12:00:00 AM | Softball
By Jordyn Anderson
Athletic Communications Student Assistant
Sam Macken is one of three seniors on the team this year. Last season she started all 57 of the games for the Gophers at third base hitting leadoff in every game. She led the team in almost every hitting category and made school history hitting 22 doubles in one season. That puts her in second place all-time in Gophers history for most doubles in a season. We were able to sit down and catch up with Sam to see how school and practice are going, and to talk about her senior season.
Gopher Sports: How have the first few weeks of school and practice been going for you? What was the experience of going to Florida for the training trip like?
Sam Macken: The last couple of weeks have been great! The team has been doing a great job at getting a little bit better each day. The Florida training week was so much fun. Not only did we get a great week of weather that allowed us to have great practices, but we also got to have some team bonding time which was really nice to have. It was the first time in my four years here at the U that I have gotten to travel with the team where we had no school work. That allowed us to really spend some quality time with each other. The trip helped so much and we are really excited about season.
GS: What is it like being a senior on the team and what does this season mean to you?
SM: It's a little bitter sweet being a senior because I am having a lot of lasts coming up which can be hard. But I am so blessed to be a part of this program and I can't wait to see what this team accomplishes this year. Obviously it being my senior year, I want this season to be the best one yet and I really think that it is going to be just that. This team is more dedicated than any team I have ever been on and everyday we push each other to be better teammates, students and people which really excites me for the season.
GS: What are you most looking forward to this season?
SM: I'm looking forward to traveling with the team and just competing.
GS: There is the possibility of you playing a few different positions this season. Can you elaborate on that?
SM: Yeah this year is a little bit different for me because I am kind of playing all over the place. I have three different gloves allowing me to play all over which can be pretty hectic but is also very exciting. In our practices so far I have been hopping around to both the infield and the outfield. Every game could be a little bit different for me position wise, but I am up for whatever will help the team.
GS: What has been your favorite Gopher Softball memory so far?
SM: My favorite Gopher softball memory has been winning two Big Ten Tournament Championships. Both of the games were so exciting and that is something that I will hold with me forever.
GS: Who are you most excited to play against this season and why?
SM: I am excited for all of our games to be honest. I only have one season left so I am just looking forward to enjoying them all. Big Ten play and postseason is so much fun but overall I am just looking forward to stepping on the field in February.
GS: If you could play any other sport besides softball, what would it be?
SM: Well I played three sports in high school, but I would definitely say hockey. I grew up playing it and I really loved it. I miss it so much.
GS: Are you a dog or cat person, and why?
SM: I have a Dog named Carmine and she is awesome. I absolutely love her and miss her so much.
GS: Do you have any favorite study areas or places on campus?
SM: A bunch of the team lives in The Marshall, which is an apartment right next to our training facility. I really enjoy doing my homework in the lobby because it is comfortable and a great place to study.
