Softball and Baseball
August 07, 2008 | Softball
Uwbadgers.com talked to a few of the Badger softball players to see what they have been up to during the summer months. Some have been living in Madison, while others have returned to their hometowns. Some are playing softball, some are coaching softball and some are coaching other sports altogether. Some are working out on campus, while others are enjoying their summer relaxing.
Today we visit with senior third baseman athid=5728&deptid=126"> --> Theresa Boruta . The Chicago native started all 55 games last year, had the fourth-best batting average on the team (.235) and was tied for the team lead with 13 stolen bases.
While back in Chicago this summer Boruta has spent time coaching softball, watching baseball and staying in shape for softball. As a coach for the 12-and-under Rippits softball team, Boruta has experienced a side of the bench she isn't used to.
'I love working with kids and this has been such a great experience for me, ' said Boruta. 'It has been very beneficial to see this side of the game. It makes me look at my coaches in a different light and I have realized that there is a lot more to the game than I originally thought.'
Along with her coaching, Boruta has spent a lot of time this summer watching her beloved Chicago White Sox both at the park and on television with her dad.
'We are huge White Sox fans in my family,' said Boruta. 'Assistant coach staffid=786"> --> Julie Wright told us to watch a lot of baseball this summer, saying it would help to learn more about the game ... she didn't have to tell me twice, I try and catch as many games as I can throughout the summer.'
Brian Bott, the softball team's strength and conditioning coach gave the team special workout plans for the summer that they can perform on their own while back home for the summer. Boruta went above and beyond the normal plan by starting the summer running the North Shore half-marathon in Chicago.
'It was an amazing experience,' said Boruta. 'It was challenging, but knowing what you had accomplished after it was done was so satisfying. Being able to run it with my family was special and made it a great day.'
The team returns to campus later this month as the start of fall classes near. Soon after, the team will be back on the diamond for fall practice and a few exhibition games. Stay tuned to uwbadgers.com for more on the UW softball team.
