Leading Off With Alex Johnson

AMES, Iowa - Each week Cyclones.com will bring you inside the Iowa State softball program by asking at least five questions to one member of the team. This week's featured student-athlete is Alex Johnson, a sophomore from Raymore, Mo. Johnson was an all-Big 12 performer as a freshman and is nearing 100 career hits in just her second season.

Cyclones.com: When you were looking at school's what made you choose Iowa State?

Johnson: There were many things that caught my eye about Iowa State. When I came on my official visit in the fall of 2005, I was fortunate enough to attend the Iowa State-Iowa football game with Amanda Bradberry. Not only did our football team win, the atmosphere and spirit of Iowa State gave me the chills and I knew that this was where I belonged. I also was able to watch a softball practice and meet all of the girls on the team. They all seemed very welcoming and supportive of one another and it was something that I wanted to be a part of.

Cyclones.com: You have hit four homers on the season and three of them have come with the bases loaded. What is it about having the bases loaded and hitting the ball out of the park? Does your approach change at all when the bases are loaded?

Johnson: I can't say that my approach changes at the plate when the bases are loaded. I never walk up to the plate thinking that I am going hit it out of the ballpark because that's not the type of hitter that I am. Every at bat I look for "my pitch", whether there are runners on base or not. I sometimes feel more pressure when we have the bases loaded, but I love the pressure.

Cyclones.com: What is going through your head when you are walking up to the plate and stepping into the batter's box?

Johnson: When I am walking up to the plate, I have a plan. My plan is to do whatever I can to help our team. Whether that means I am bunting to move a runner, getting a base hit or drawing a walk- My plan is to get on base. Other than having the confidence I need to get the job done, I'm not thinking about anything else. I don't think about my swing or try to figure out what the pitcher is going to throw me; that's too much of a mental game for me.

Cyclones.com: As many know the Big 12 is one of the strongest softball conferences in the league. What is it that makes it such a strong league? Is there much of a difference when you enter conference play after facing teams in the non- conference season that maybe aren't as strong as the teams you face every weekend in league action?

Johnson: When our Big 12 season rolls around the heat is turned up. The Big 12 is quicker, faster and stronger than a lot of other conferences throughout the nation. Although, when we play teams that aren't in our conference we don't change anything about our approach. We play every team as if they are ranked number one in the nation and I feel that it helps with our performance.

Cyclones.com: As a freshman you saw action primarily as a designated player but as a sophomore you have played more catcher. What is your favorite thing about catching?

Johnson: I love everything about catching. I am in every play, I have to think quick on my feet and can take charge in certain situations. Since I have the entire field in front of me, the team depends on me to make spilt decisions.

These decisions are crucial and can determine wins vs. loses and runs vs. outs. There is a lot more to it than just being able to catch the ball; and that's what I like about it. I love being in a position where it's both physically and mentally demanding.

Cyclones.com: Of all your teammates, which is your favorite to watch play? Why?

Johnson: I really enjoy watching everyone on our team practice and play. I feel that everyone brings something a little different to the table. Renae Cooper is the one player on the team who I look to for confidence. She is always pumping everyone up and ready to play. Renae is such a positive person and player and is always on the upside of the things. She has so much heart, integrity and passion about the Iowa State softball program. She works hard everyday and that's what I love about her. I feel that Cooper is a crucial ingredient on our team and I feel that her positive attitude has a lot to do with our team success.

Cyclones.com: You are a child and family studies major. What are your goals for after graduation?

Johnson: After graduation I plan to move back home and work as a Family Therapist. I love communicating with people and learning about their lives. Family Therapy is something that I've always wanted to do because I feel that family relationships are very important.

Players Mentioned

Amanda Bradberry

Amanda Bradberry

Amanda Bradberry

Renae Cooper

Renae Cooper

Alex Johnson

Alex Johnson

Alex Johnson

Sponsors

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