Softball

Friday Focus with Katie McHugh

TOWSON, Md. – Every Friday, the Landmark Conference spotlights one of its standout student-athletes in the Friday Focus series. This week’s feature highlights Katie McHugh, a member of the Catholic University softball team. From clutch moments in key matchups to the mindset that fuels her preparation, McHugh shares what drives her on and off the field as a Cardinal.

What’s your favorite memory competing at Catholic University?
Winning our double header against Moravian and being able to rally when our team needed it the most

What drew you to softball originally?
When I was seven years old, I started playing softball since my dad played baseball; he taught me a lot of the game. I fell in love with softball at such a young age that it has shaped me into who I am today.

How do you prepare the night before a big game?
I like to eat a good meal and go to bed early. I write down what I want to focus on at the game, whether it is something physical or mental, which helps me prepare and visualize what needs to be done. I also like to take a long shower and stretch.

Who inspires you most on your team, and why?
Our seniors. They are the grade above our grade, so they have been with me my whole collegiate career. They deserve the most, and I will put everything on the line for them. They aspire to be better as a person and an athlete. If I had to pick one individual, I would choose Katie Scolese. She is an amazing player whom I look up to and ask for advice all the time. She is a hard worker and continues to make me better every day!

What’s your go-to hype song?
Brain Stew- Green Day

Postgame meal of choice?
Pasta and some sort of protein (steak or chicken)

Hidden talent most people don’t know you have?
I can do impressions of certain people or cartoon animals.

Favorite athlete growing up?
Jennie Finch

First jersey number — and why?
4, a very random number, was given to me - but I think I liked it since a lot of my life was surrounded by it. Four family members, the fourth day is the day I was supposed to be born, four is the year I started playing sports.

Favorite class or professor?
FIN 491, with Kevin May. It was an elective about how we created money and how it evolved.

First college game — what do you remember?
I remember being so nervous. It was an away game, and I started in the second game. I remember wanting to prove so much and try to be good enough to play with our amazing team. I had so much to learn from that moment. I wish I could go back and tell myself to calm down, and it's just a kid's game.

One word your teammates would use to describe you?
Powerful