Softball Countdown: Sydney Reynolds

Jan. 29, 2013

Softball Countdown: Sydney Reynolds

In our countdown to the start of the 2013 softball season, we will feature all 24 Hawkeyes.

Sydney Reynolds is a sophomore from Platte City, Mo. The outfielder wears No. 7 for the Hawkeyes. Reynolds appeared in 26 games with one start in 2012, serving primarily as a pinch-running specialist. She scored 10 runs and was 1-of-1 in stolen base attempts.

Iowa opens the season Feb. 8 in Houston, Texas. The Hawkeyes face Lipscomb and Texas State at the Hilton Houston Plaza Classic.

What is it like working with coach Looper and the coaching staff?
“Every day you show up ready to work hard and they do the same. They spend a lot of time dedicated to us — making sure we have everything we need to prepare for our goals for the season.”

What was the key factor in your recruitment that led you to Iowa City and the Hawkeye softball program?
“I came to Iowa because it is a great university. Iowa has great traditions and friendly people. The campus is beautiful as well. My favorite part was the Pentacrest.”

What facet of your game has improved the most since last spring?
“The mentality it takes to play at this level. You step on the field every day telling yourself that no one will beat you and you will not be outworked.”

What is the team goal for 2013?
“To be Big Ten champions, make the postseason, and advance the College World Series. We are focused on the first goal, and if we do the little things right, then the possibility for postseason opens up.”

Who is the most influential person in your life?
“My mom is the most influential person in my life because she puts others before herself.”

What is your favorite kind of candy?
“Take 5 (candy bar).”

Who is your favorite professional athlete?
“Albert Pujols.”

If you were cast on a reality TV show, which one would you prefer to be on and why?
“Duck Dynasty, so I could meet Uncle Si. I would never stop laughing!”

What is your favorite place to be on campus?
“Starbucks or the Pentacrest during the fall when the leaves are changing.”

As a spectator, what is your favorite sport?
“Gymnastics — I was in gymnastics from when I was three years old through eighth grade.”

What is your favorite movie?
She’s the Man.”

Is there another talent you wish you had?
“I wish I could sing like Jennifer Lopez.”

What is your most prized possession?
“My cross ring and necklace. My church youth group leader gave the ring to me and the necklace was given to me by my grandma.”

What is your favorite food/meal?
“Salmon, mashed potatoes, and green beans.”

Do you have any superstitions, on or off the playing field?
“On game days, I never step on the foul line and I always set my glove upright when I set it down.”

What is your favorite restaurant in the Iowa City area?
“Takanami.”

What would be your ideal career?
“I want to be an athletic director at the University of Iowa or an event manager for the Kansas City Royals.”

What is one word that describes you?
“Motivating.”