We’re back! For this piece, I’m going to share with you a bunch of random things I was able to experience in my time as an Arizona Wildcat, from 2020-2024.
One of the biggest things I was able to be a part of, was Coach Candrea’s final collegiate team. My freshman year was his last lap as a head coach, and I will forever be grateful that I was able to play for him. He is still a major part of my life and I have a massive appreciation for him not only as a coach, but as a human. I will always get to say I was able to play for the legendary Mike Candrea.
I was able to play at the Women’s College World Series twice. The goal is to play in it three times, with the journey to the big stage starting in a few weeks. Playing in Oklahoma City is a dream for so many athletes, and I get to say, “I did that”.
We played in the first ever Pac-12 tournament in 2023, which was hosted at Rita Hillenbrand Memorial Stadium, our home field. In our first game against Arizona State, I hit a walk-off grand slam to run rule the Sun Devils. I played in the last ever Pac-12 tournament, hosted by Stanford.
I completed the first error-free season for an Arizona infielder, in 2023. This is one of my proudest accomplishments and I’ve got to shout out Lauren Lappin for making me a believer in myself and my defensive abilities.
This isn’t one specific thing, but I was able to create relationships with the Arizona Athletics staff and others that I am thankful for. I was able to create bonds with President Robert Robbins, our former athletic director Dave Heeke, our senior woman administrator Erika Barnes, and others.
As a Wildcat, I was able to learn who I am and who I want to become. I was given the opportunity to represent the university with pride, and that I did. I am thankful I was a part of so many great things at Arizona, and I can’t wait to see what’s next. Bear Down, always!
Talk soon.
Allie
LINK: MORE IN THE ARENA WITH ALLIE SKAGGS