July 12, 2011

BERKELEY - Many months have passed since CalBears.com introduced you to the freshmen and now it's time to reconnect. Ashley Decker made quite a name for herself as a true freshman, earning a Pac-10 All-Freshman Honorable Mention after playing in 53 of Cal's 58 games, making 46 starts. Decker, who split time between second base, outfield and designated player, finished her freshman season sixth on the team in hitting at .242 and was a candidate for NFCA All-America status. CalBears.com caught up with Decker, who was at home in Sparks, Nev., to get a brief recap of her 2011 season.

CalBears.com: Now that you've got one year of collegiate softball under your belt - what was the best part of the softball season?
Ashley Decker: The best part was getting to play in the World Series.

CalBears.com: What was the best part about your fall or spring semester?
AD: Finishing with passing grades and a trip to the World Series.

CalBears.com: After two semesters of college academics, what are you planning on doing differently or the same next semester in terms of school?
AD: I am planning on finding more time to study.

CalBears.com: What is something you didn't know before you came to Cal but you now know?
AD: I didn't know it was going to be so hard to find a parking spot.

CalBears.com: What was the favorite class you took this year?
AD: Education 98.

CalBears.com: What was the best part about Cal softball this year? AD: Making it to the World Series.

CalBears.com: What class are you most looking forward to taking this fall semester?
AD: Swahili.

CalBears.com: What was it like to balance top-notch academics and playing on nationally ranked softball team?
AD: It was tough, but worth it in the end.

CalBears.com: What is one of your most hilarious or embarrassing stories from your freshman year?
AD: When Jayme Goodwin ran into the fence while trying to catch a fly ball during practice.

CalBears.com: What advice would you give to incoming freshmen?
AD: Work hard and have fun.

Read all the Q&As and features from this season!

Read Decker's first Q&A with CalBears.com!