GREENSBORO, N.C. – As the UNC Greensboro (UNCG) softball team counts down the days until its first game of the 2022 season, 10 to be exact, we are excited to get to know the new faces on the team.
 
Today we highlight part two of our Q & A's with the freshmen. Enjoy getting to know Graysen Hunter, Reese Byrd, and Grace Loftin!
 
Graysen Hunter | P | Williamston, S.C.
 
Do you have any interesting hobbies? If so, what is it and how did you get started? Do you have a favorite memory with the hobby?
My interests are listening to music, playing softball, and riding horses. I have a strong passion in horses. That being because I grew up riding and being around them. This is what inspired me to choose the major I have. Not only are those a few of my hobbies but I also work with special needs children back in my hometown. Working with them has impacted my life in many ways causing me to want to continue working with them after college.
 
What are you studying and why did you choose that major?
I am studying recreational therapy. I had a hard time choosing my major at first because I have no idea what I wanted to do. I knew I wanted to work with animals, but I also knew I did not want to be a vet. As I put more thought into my passions in life, I was pointed towards recreational therapy. I specifically loved working with horses and special needs children, so this caused me to decide on my major.
 
Who is your softball role model and why?
My softball role model would have to be Lisa Fernandez. My reason as to why is because of her accomplishments and determination through softball. Lisa was a 5'6 pitcher who dominated the mound, but not only could she pitch she also played third. I relate and look up to Fernandez in ways because of my height and the accomplishments to achieve no matter her size or what people said. Being a 5'5 pitcher in a competitive sport was hard for me not because of my ability but because of my size. I could own the mound and get the job done. However, there were many times I was looked over because of size and others thinking I would peak out faster than a taller pitcher. I looked up to Fernandez to be my inspiration to be that stud no matter my size. She broke records and put inspiration in me to fight hard for what I wanted.
 
Do you have any pets? If so, what kind and how many?
I have a rescue dog named Banjo and he is my little sidekick through everything. I am not sure what kind of dog he is being that he is a rescue however, I do think he is a toy poodle. I also have two horses named Shine and Diesel; both have personalities of their own.
 
What has been a favorite spot to eat thus far in Greensboro?
My favorite spot to eat has been Mellow Mushroom. I am a big fan of Italian foods.
 
Reese Byrd | P | Suffolk, Va.
 
Have you traveled internationally, where was it? Was it a school trip? Do you have a favorite memory from the trip?
I have been to the Bahamas, Jamaica, Mexico, and the Dominican Republic. I went on all of these trips with my mom and loved them! I love the Caribbean and warm weather.
 
What are you studying and why did you choose that major?
I am studying Kinesiology. My goal is to go to PA school to earn my master's and become a Physician's Assistant.
 
Who has been a major role model in your life and why?
My mom has been a major role model in my life because she has always been so hardworking, driven, and caring. She has always believed in me. I aspire to be the woman that she is one day.
 
Do you have any pets? If so, what kind and how many?
I have a Westie named Simon! He is seven years old and the best boy ever!
 
What has been a favorite spot to eat thus far in Greensboro and what do you like to order?
Hop's Burger Bar has been a favorite spot and I love to order the North Carolinian burger!
 
Grace Loftin | OF | Conover, N.C.
 
If you come from a small town/village, what attracted you to UNCG both from an academic and softball perspective?
I was attracted to UNCG for the stellar Kinesiology program, which was something that I was very interested in. Athletically, I was drawn to the winning program, the coaches, and just the atmosphere here.
 
What are you studying and why did you choose that major?
I am studying Kinesiology with the hopes to become an Occupational Therapist. I chose this major because I had an injury and I had to go to OT. That experience allowed me to understand that helping people return to their everyday lives and activities that they enjoy while encouraging them along the way, is something that I want to be a part of.
 
Who has been a major role model in your life and why?
My dad. He has coached me my whole entire softball career, and if he wasn't coaching, he never missed a game. He taught me so much not only about the game but also about life too. All those summers of travel ball really brought us closer, and I wouldn't trade it for anything. My mom too. She's the kindest person I know, and I strive to be like her.
 
Do you have any superstitions before a game? During a game?
I always pray before games and even during. I find peace and comfort in praying. I also have to have my hair in bubbles. Before I got here, my grandparents gave me a necklace with my number, 13, on it so I now have to wear that in every game!
 
What has been a favorite spot to eat thus far in Greensboro?
My favorite spot to eat so far in Greensboro has been Hops Burger Bar. They have some of the best burgers that I've ever had. I like to order the Diablo with sweet potato fries.