Meet Julia Gossett: Star softball player headed to Purdue University
As a senior at Jackson High School and part of the girls’ softball team, Julia Gossett was fortunate enough to receive some recognition as the 8th ranked player in Ohio.
“It’s quite an honor because there are many good quality players in the state," said Gossett, who played pitcher and first base before graduating.
She has been playing softball for about 12 years and plans to play while attending Purdue University. One of her favorite professional players is Adley Rutschman who is a catcher with the Baltimore Orioles.
“I started playing when I was in elementary school," she said. "I eventually joined some travel teams which allowed me to play with and against many talented players. I realized that I was able to compete at those levels. I am constantly working to get better and stay competitive with the top talent in the country. I’ve had many coaches and instructors in my softball career. Each one has provided insight and instruction that have helped me along the way.
“I would enjoy the opportunity to play softball after college. I think that the opportunities are growing for softball players after college, so I see it as a possibility. I also enjoy all types of activities and will continue playing some sport after college.”
Gossett lives in Jackson Township and her parents are Heather and Tom. She has two older brothers, Tommy and Stevie. Plus, she has a loving Shih Tzu named Gizmo.
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When and how did you first know you wanted to play sports, especially softball?
Growing up I would always go to my older brothers’ baseball games. I would always want to spend time with them and they spent their time doing baseball so I did as well.
Then as I got older, I got more competitive and got to start playing softball.
How many hours do you practice when preparing for a season?
It varies depending on whether I am in season or in the off season. Other than team practices, I practice at home and also have been working with multiple instructors for agility and strength training.
I also have a personal hitting and a pitching coach.
I’ve read that you have pitched a few almost perfect games. What does it feel like when you are playing when you strike out almost every opposing player?
When I’m playing, I don’t think about all of the batters as a whole. I take it batter by batter and break down each at bat and pitch.
I battle to win each at bat and each battle adds up to each victory. After it’s over, I like to review the game and see what went well and what didn’t and what I can improve on. Then I expand from there.
What/who are three of your favorite professional teams/players?
Adley Rutschman, Riley Sartain, and Grace Lyons. These are some of the best baseball and softball players in the world, but on top of that they also play with humility and integrity and are good role models off the field, which I think trumps talent on any given day.
Do you know what your major will be in college?
I plan to major in animal science and minor in psychology, and I will play softball at Purdue University.
My grandparents own a farm in Tennessee, and I grew up going there feeding the animals, so I think my love for animals originated through them. Now I want to turn that love into a career.
I also think psychology is interesting as it can provide an alternative to being a veterinarian.
Editor's note: Five questions with ... is a Sunday feature that showcases a member of the Stark County community. If you'd like to recommend someone to participate, send an email to newsroom@cantonrep.com.
This article originally appeared on The Repository: 5 questions with Julia Gossett: Star softball player headed to Purdue
