Name: Kaila Kuo
Year: senior
Hometown: Hinsdale
When did you first start playing softball?
I did taekwondo from third grade up until middle school. My dad wanted me to get involved in team sports. He said I could do track or softball. I figured softball would have less running, so I did softball.
What do you enjoy most about the sport?
I just like meeting new people, hanging out with them and being able to build that team relationship. It's not like other friends you find at school that you hang out with. You work toward a singular goal together.
Which is your best pitch?
My curve ball. I like throwing that one.
Which pitch is most challenging?
I've gotta say a screw ball, which is the exact opposite of a curve ball.
How have you improved since your freshman year?
I think just personally I'm a lot more confident than I was as a freshman. I'm more sociable and less nervous talking to people and talking to coaches.
What is the best advice you've gotten from a coach?
Be open to adjusting, whether it's in the moment in the game or adjusting your mechanics.
What is your goal for the season?
I think definitely just to be more of a leader than I have been in the past, especially since I'm a senior and I have to be a role model for the underclassmen.
What would people be surprised to know about you?
People are pretty shocked when they hear I'm a second degree black belt in taekwondo.
What are your plans for next year?
I might play intramurals or club, but I don't think I'm going to play for school necessarily. I'm going to the University of Illinois to study material science and engineering.
Why does coach Brittany Zust like having Kuo on the team?
Kaila Kuo is a four-year varsity starter for us. Kaila brings leadership, experience and most importantly determination to the program. She is dedicated to be the best player she can be while recognizing what it takes to work hard. Kaila wants to see her teammates shine as well. We are lucky to have her in our program and on our team. I cannot wait to see what she brings to the table as a senior.
- profile by Pamela Lannom, photo by Jim Slonoff