Hawkeye Fan Shop — A Black & Gold Store | Hawk Talk Monthly — January | 24 Hawkeyes to Watch 2018-19
EDITOR’S NOTE: Each week, the University of Iowa softball team will feature one native Iowan and their journey to Iowa City. This week features senior Mallory Kilian
WHY IOWA
Throughout the process of playing ball I dreamed of the opportunity to play in a power five conference. I had aspirations to attend a university that had a reputation of high standard and success. No matter what I wanted to feel like I had made a decision that would challenge me and continue to help me grow as both an athlete and individual. The University of Iowa happened to make its way into the picture, offering me the chance to continue my athletic career and I could not have been more excited. Being able to stay close to home and have the support of my family throughout this whole journey has made it so special. All of the staff and amazing atmosphere that Iowa offers continuously reminds me of why I chose to go to school here.
GROWING UP IN IOWA
The community of Fort Dodge has played a vital role in how I have connected to the state of Iowa. The coaches, teachers, and peers who share a passion for what they do on a day to day basis creates an environment unlike any other, which is quiet hard to describe unless you have felt it yourself! I consistently witnessed the hard work and drive of fellow classmates. This was a constant reminder to keep pushing myself to improve and grow on every level. I now look and see many friends and classmates achieving great things, which always makes me proud to have come from the same town.
IOWA CITY
Iowa City grew on me fast. I love how the downtown area is integrated with university life. I can hit up a yoga class and then grab a great lunch down the street at Nodo. It has been a fantastic town to spend my four years of college in and hopefully I can make it back to Kinnick Stadium for a football game every once in a while after my time here is complete. I am excited to get back to it this spring, reconnect with the girls, and hit the ground running. We have some exciting challenges ahead of us and we will continue to grow and improve as a program.
