College Softball News

7 Innings: Stetson Softball Player Demi Meza

Demi Meza Softball

Stetson senior Demi Meza is off to an impressive start in 2015 for the Hatters. The Oxnard, CA native has put up some impressive statistics in her first six games. Currently she is batting .550 with four home runs, seven RBI and 24 total bases. What may be even more impressive is her 1.200 slugging percentage. Let’s get to know more about her.

FPN: At what age did you decide that you wanted to become an elite/college softball player, why?

Meza: As long as I can remember, I’ve always been an athlete. I’ve been involved in sports ever since I was a small child. My parents kept me involved in various sports including, softball, soccer, volleyball and cheerleading. However, softball was the one that I enjoyed the most. I started at 4 years old, but it wasn’t until I was in the ninth grade that I knew I wanted to play in college.

FPN: When did you hit your first home run? How did it make you feel?

Meza: The first one I can remember was on my 16 and under club team. It was the very first pitch of the game and I remember being the first batter up to bat. I saw it come right down the middle and swung as hard as I could.

FPN: Who or what inspired you the most to pursue your dream?

Meza: My parents proudly pushed me to pursue my dream. They have always encouraged me to go after what I want. They are true believers in the notion that “if you believe it, you can achieve it.” My parents continue to support me from the age of 4 to today. My mom played softball in high school and college and I always knew that I wanted to do the same. She encouraged me to stay focused on my dreams while never forgetting about my academics. My parents always said that ‘Knowledge is power” and that the more I learn, the better I will be. They both remind me of the importance of moral character and to never forget where I come from. This is something that I continue to live by.

FPN: Some advice to people who want to follow your path; what are three things you should do to help yourself improve as a player?

Meza:

  1. Listen to other people’s advice. When you’re young, you think you know it all, but that’s not the case. Some people have played that game longer than you, so listen to their advice and opinion, and learn from what they have to say.
  2. Stay humble and remember that there will always be someone better and more experienced.
  3.  Always leave everything you have on the field. Don’t carry it with you when you leave the game. Give it your all so you don’t have any regrets.

FPN: What is the first thing you look forward to in the off-season, why?

Meza: Coming together as a team. I enjoy this part of the season because we, as a team, are able to reconnect and rebuild a bond that will help us be more successful during the season.

FPN: What difficulties did you encounter transitioning from high school to college? (– softball or just college wise)

Meza: Learning how to be on my own was the most challenging for me. I’m very family oriented and it was difficult to leave. I had to learn to do things on my own after depending on my parents for almost everything. After the first semester I was able to adjust and found college life enjoyable.

FPN: What is your favorite type of bat to use, why?

Meza: When I was younger I used to use Easton bats, but as I got older I started using Louisville bats. My travel team was sponsored by Louisville so I was extremely excited when I found out Stetson also used Louisville bats.

FPN: Are you the type of player who likes to write things on your glove? If so, what do you write?

Meza: I never used to be that type of player until my sophomore year in college. I wrote on both my visor and engraved on my bat “It’s God given”. There’s a funny youtube video of a man making fun of major league baseball players and a quote he says is “It’s God given”. I write that on both my visor and bat because it not only reminds me to have fun while playing this game, but it also reminds me that my abilities are a gift from God and to not take that for granted.

FPN: Do you prefer Gatorade or water, why? If Gatorade, which is your favorite flavor/color?

Meza: I’ve always been a water type of girl, but occasionally I’ll drink some Gatorade here and there. I have about four favor flavors, red, blue, purple, and the light purple.

FPN: After a game, what is your favorite thing to eat, why?

Meza: I love food so pretty much anything!

FPN: What is your favorite thing about your coach, why?

Meza: They always have positive attitudes which encourages our team to have the same positive attitudes and makes a better environment. They are also super caring and understanding and I know I can come to them with any problem I have.

FPN: On your team who do you think has the best dance moves, why?

Meza: Definitely Jessica Griffin! Hands down! One time during a rain delay, her and Coach JJ had a dance battle in the middle of the field. They both are hilarious!

FPN: In your mind what is a breakfast for champions, why?

Meza: Before my games I usually eat egg whites with ham, peppers, and cheese. Also have to add some hot sauce to spice it up!

FPN: What genre of music gets you most ready to play a game, why?

Meza: To be honest, I listen to a lot of type of music before a game. I have a playlist on my phone with everything from Disney music to Reggae to Hip Hop.

Extra Innings

FPN: Which do you like better, Chipotle or Taco Bell?

Meza: Definitely Chipotle! What’s not to like about Chipotle? I love everything about it!

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