Jan. 15, 2013
Softball Countdown: Kayla Massey
- Read the January issue of Hawk Talk Monthly
- Download your Iowa Hawkeye iPad/iPhone app!
- Download your Iowa Hawkeye Android app!
- Big Ten Network: Free Hawkeye Video
- 24 Hawkeyes to Watch
In our countdown to the start of the 2013 softball season, we will feature all 24 Hawkeyes over the next month.
Kayla Massey is a junior from Foothill Ranch, Calif. The former Trabuco Hills High School standout wears No. 17 for the Hawkeyes.
The starting pitcher was named first team All-Big Ten in 2012, posting a 15-11 record with a 2.04 ERA. Massey notched seven shutouts and 24 complete games in 26 starts. She tallied 120 strikeouts over 185.2 innings and limited opposing hitters to a .222 batting average. Massey went 9-3 with a 1.95 ERA in Big Ten play. She has made 50 career starts as a Hawkeye in 68 appearances, registering 40 complete games and 27 victories.
Iowa opens the season Feb. 8 in Houston, Texas. The Hawkeyes face Lipscomb and UT Arlington at the Hilton Houston Plaza Classic.
What is it like working with Coach Looper and the coaching staff?
“It is nice working with coaches that know that every player learns differently. It is nice that they separate how they teach different players based upon different learning habits.”
What was the key factor in your recruitment that led you to Iowa City and the Hawkeye softball program?
“The coaching staff and the support of the community. I also loved the school.”
What facet of your game has improved the most since last spring?
“My pitching and batting; I feel more confident and comfortable in both parts of the game.”
What did you do during your free time over the summer?
“Worked out, played on a summer team, and worked towards being a better player along with being a better teammate.”
Who is the most influential person in your life?
“My dad is the one person that I can call and he will be honest with me about any aspect of my life.”
What is your first softball memory?
“Hitting a home run in tee-ball and running the opposite way around the bases.”
Do you have any hobbies?
“Softball, softball, and softball.”
If you were cast on a reality TV show, which one would you prefer to be on and why?
“I would prefer to be on Punk’d because I love messing with people, mostly Holly Hoffman.”
What is your favorite TV show?
“Duck Dynasty. I am addicted to this show!”
What is your favorite place to be on campus?
“The new rec building (Campus Recreation and Wellness Center). The rock wall is really fun!”
What is your favorite movie?
“3 Ninjas, the original.”
Is there another talent you wish you had?
“I wish I was as flexible as Michelle Zoeller.”
What is your favorite food/meal?
“My favorite meal is meatloaf, mashed potatoes, and corn, and my favorite food is a burger.”
What is your favorite restaurant in the Iowa City area?
“Texas Roadhouse!”
What would be your ideal career?
“Athletic director or an event planner for a major sports team.”
What is one word that describes you?
“Sarcastic.”