REBEL CHECK-IN

MADDIE SCHMIDT
UNLV SOFTBALL
EXPLORING MAJORS

LAS VEGAS (UNLVRebels.com) - UNLV softball's promising season was abruptly cut short in March just as the Rebels were about to head into Mountain West play with a 21-5 record, matching the second-best start to a season in program history. A year after just missing the NCAA Tournament as the committee's first four teams out, UNLV looked poised to reach the postseason tournament for the first time since 2009, but that goal will have to wait another year.

Despite the shortened campaign, freshman Maddie Schmidt quickly made an impact in her first collegiate season, even though she ended up in a different position than she had played during her prep career. After coming to UNLV as an infielder, Schmidt learned how to play outfield and impressivley earned the starting spot in left field where she was a steady hand, committing zero errors in 26 starts. Schmidt also took over the leadoff spot in the lineup and thrived in the role, hitting .365 on the year, which ranked second behind Justine Federe, to go along with 27 hits and 20 runs scored, also second-best on the team in both categories. The speedster led the team with 18 walks and was a perfect 17-for-17 in stolen bases, good for second in all of the Mountain West through non-conference play. Schmidt's success in year one should be just the start of an exciting and productive career.

UNLVRebels.com had a chance this week to check in the Yorba Linda, California, native on what she has been up to and what she learned from her first season:

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UNLVRebels.com: Your first collegiate season was unfortunately cut short, but you seemed to be making a pretty smooth transition to the college game. How did you work your way into the starting lineup and what did you learn from your first (short) collegiate season?

Maddie: When coming into college I didn't know what to expect but I've always had standards for myself as a player. I worked hard throughout the short season and good things happened. This season I actually learned how to play outfield. Growing up I've always been an infielder, but the coaches were great in teaching me the outfield part of the game.

UNLVRebels.com: How did the coaches help you guys get through the disappointment of how the year ended?

Maddie: When we all heard the news, we were all devastated. Our coaches believed that something positive could come out of this. They've instilled in us that even though we can't play together right now, we could use this time to get better and further prepare ourselves for when we get that opportunity to get back on the field.

UNLVRebels.com: How did you manage your time at home during quarantine to complete classes and continue to try to keep up your offseason workouts?

Maddie: I find it's very helpful to have a routine throughout the day/week. So, I managed my time by figuring out a set routine that worked based on the day with what classes I had and the workouts I needed to complete.

UNLVRebels.com: What was the most challenging thing about it?

Maddie: I would say the most challenging thing about being at home and not at school would have to be the online learning. I'm the type of person who learns better in a classroom setting so moving everything online was a big change for me.

UNLVRebels.com: What did you miss the most about being away from campus and the team?

Maddie: I definitely miss being able to see the team every day. We all got along so well, and they really make me feel like I belong to something bigger than myself.

UNLVRebels.com: How did the team stay connected while being away from each other?

Maddie: Usually every week on Friday we would all get together via zoom and talk about new and interesting topics that really bonded us together as a team. We also have this group message that we all stay connected through.

UNLVRebels.com: What have you been up to over the summer? Have you been able to play any softball?

Maddie: Over the summer I have mostly been at my house in Yorba Linda spending time with my family. Luckily my brother also grew up playing baseball, so we've been playing a lot of catch in my front yard. I also have this net and tee that I've been able to take some swings off of.

UNLVRebels.com: What are you looking forward to the most when you can get back to campus?

Maddie: I am most looking forward to seeing everyone again and most importantly am I looking forward to getting back on the field.

UNLVRebels.com: What are your goals heading into your second season next spring?

Maddie: My goal heading into next season is to improve my overall game. I'm going to work hard on and off the field and take that extra time I have and be productive with things I may be struggling with. So, I can be that teammate that people can count on.

UNLVRebels.com: Favorite TV show you've binge watched?

My favorite show that I've binge watched would have to be Outer Banks. It's a show that will definitely keep you on the edge of your seat.

UNLVRebels.com: Cooked anything?

Maddie: I love cooking and pasta, so I really enjoy making different variations of pastas.

UNLVRebels.com: Learn or tried something new since you've been home?

Maddie: Since I've been home my mom and I have started a little garden. Our tomatoes and bell peppers are starting to grow which is pretty exciting.