Hudson is real familiar with Norman, Okla., site of this week’s regional for the Oregon softball team. Hudson was a sophomore when Oregon last visited Norman for a regional in 2005 and lost in the final to the host Sooners. Hudson was the Ducks’ top offensive performer as she batted .500 (4-for-8) with four RBIs, a home run, a double and a 1.000 slugging percentage. CQ
She redshirted last season with a stress fracture in her right foot. This season, while struggling behind the plate, Hudson has been a consistent presence defensively in right field. She made a sliding catch in right field in Oregon’s final home game last Saturday, a 3-0 win over Washington. CQ
Oregon Daily Emerald: Are you excited to continue playing?
Kayleen Hudson: It feels good. I’m really excited. I think the team’s really excited.
ODE: Were you nervous (Sunday) waiting for the selection show? What did you do to keep busy?
KH: I just tried not to think about it. I had a weird feeling in my stomach all day, just anticipation, just waiting. When the show was on, I was holding my breath.
ODE: It probably didn’t help Oregon was one of the last team’s to appear on the screen?
KH: I know. I was like ‘Oregon, Oregon, Oregon’ and then it came up and I was like ‘Yes.’
ODE: Are you pretty confident?
KH: Yeah, I feel good where we’re going. We’ve been there. We know how the field is and the playing conditions so we have that advantage. Also, we’ve seen Oklahoma so we have film on (them) and we can study that.
ODE: What was the experience like for you three years ago as a sophomore (in Norman, Okla.)?
KH: It was so exciting and we were so close. We’ve been so close so many times in regionals. We’ve been outs away. It was a really good experience and it was hard when we lost but I still think it was a good experience.
ODE: What was it like to have such a good hitting performance?
KH: It’s always more fun when your hitting well. When you’re doing good, you’re always on a high. I remember feeling pretty good there. It helps that I have those good memories of playing well there and hopefully I can carry it over for the team and try to get some hits.
ODE: What’s the environment like with the Oklahoma fans?
KH: The fans are pretty loud. They have a lot of support in Oklahoma for softball, but we have a lot of fans too. We’re used to the fans (with the Pac-10 teams) and I don’t think that will have any effect on us.
ODE: What has kept you positive this season? It seems like there has been some frustration this year, whether it’s struggling offensively or not starting some games.
KH: Just having the opportunity to be here and be part of the team. Sitting out last year really helped me appreciate just being able to get a chance to have an at-bat. Even if I do strike out or I don’t play, I’m still just happy to be here.
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