Meet the Trojans - Heather Johnston - Troy University Athletics

Meet the Trojans - Savannah Thomas | Facility Upgrade

TROY, Ala. – With the 2013 Troy softball season fast approaching, TroyTrojans.com will introduce you to a newcomer from the squad every week, leading up to the season opener in February.

Heather Johnston played last season at Faulkner State Community College in Bay Minette, Ala. While there, Johnston helped lead the Sun Chiefs to a 39-14 record, hitting .321 with seven home runs and earning All-Southern Division honors. She also earned second team all-state and all-region honors. Prior to her time at Faulkner State, Johnston played four years of softball at Hueytown High School where she took her team to four consecutive state playoffs, including a 6A state championship in 2010.

1. Why did you choose Troy to continue your education and softball?
"I chose Troy because I immediately fell in love with it the first time I stepped on campus. The coaches, team and family atmosphere here made me feel right at home. Troy also has an excellent nursing program, which helped tremendously in my decision, since that is what I will be majoring in here."

2. How has the transition been from Faulkner to Troy?
"The transition has in no way been easy, but definitely worth it. The busier schedule, harder workouts/practices and tougher classes have been a great challenge, but I'm loving every second of it. With all of the academic resources and my amazing teammates, this transition has been much easier than expected."

3. What would you say are the key differences in your preparation for the season ahead?
"My key difference this year in preparation for the season is to maintain my confidence and to never lose focus on my goals everyday. With the different levels in competition from last year to this upcoming season, I know this will be a very challenging season for me, but if I keep my confidence and stay focused I believe those two things will be my keys to success."

4. How have your practices been and what do you see as your biggest Improvement so far?
"Practices have been nothing but learning experiences for me. At practice I try to take in everything I can and then put it to work. They've been longer and harder than past experiences, but have definitely been worthwhile. My biggest improvement so far would just have to be my hitting. My swing has been of the biggest focuses this fall and it has come a long way in a short amount of time. I can't wait to see how much more it can improve for the spring."

5. The team is about to get a brand new softball field, including an Indoor Training Facility. How does that impact the team?
"I absolutely cannot wait for the new facility. This upgrade is going to bring so many new and exciting opportunities for this team. Having one of the best facilities around is going to allow us to have awesome stadium seating for our fans, 24/7 access to indoor training, new locker rooms and our own lounge and treatment room. Everything we need is literally going to be right at the field and it's going to add that extra spark to Troy softball."

6. What are your personal goals for the spring season?
"My personal goal for this season is to be the most encouraging I can be to my teammates, to always keep my confidence up and know that everyday is a new day to get better. Hopefully by the end of the year I will have made some of my weaknesses my strengths and impacted the team in a positive way."

6. When you finish college what would you like to do?
"When I finish college I would like to start travel nursing and travel the world while doing what I love for a few years. After awhile, I'd like to do some type of neonatal work in a hospital. I also hope to one day do medical missions, and use my RN degree and visit other countries to spread God's love and health care. After a few years of traveling, I plan on moving away somewhere and starting a family."

7. In one word describe this year's team.
"Competitive"

Troy University Athletics

Meet the Trojans - Heather Johnston

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