Softball player Hannah Flippen has always wanted to follow in her mother’s footsteps, and prior to her senior year at the University of Utah, she did just that.
“My mom was a part of the U.S. National Team when she played,” Flippen said. “Seeing her do that, I knew I wanted to do that as well because I want to do everything my mom did.”
Towards the end of her junior year, Flippen traveled to Florida to try out for a spot on the United States National Softball Team after being invited by the Women’s National Team Selection Committee.
During the week-long tryout, Flippen explained the process was rigorous and she only got one chance at bat with the different pitchers who were participating. From there the team of 20 was picked, and Flippen didn’t think she would be selected. Just being able to try out with other athletes throughout the nation was an honor for Flippen, and to see her name on that list was one of the most surreal moments of her life.
“I had known so many great players that I didn’t think it was going to be for me,” Flippen said. “When I found out it was for me, I just invested my whole heart in it and went after it, and thankfully I got a spot.”
Head coach Amy Hogue was excited to see Flippen represent the U on the national team as she considers Flippen one of her most elite players. Since Flippen has the ability to play different positions, Hogue thinks she’ll remain a part of that system for an extended period of time.
“I was really happy that they were able to recognize her talent with the limited time they got with her, and that’s why I know her chances staying with them just increases because the more days with her, the more they will realize her ceiling is so high,” Hogue said. “She is limitless as far as what her capabilities are with this game.”
After Flippen finishes her season with the Utes, she will rejoin the national team as it travels to places all over the country to practice and play games. The team will also have the opportunity to travel to other countries, like the Dominican Republican.
“I get to travel a lot, meet new people, play softball all the time, and I’m really looking forward to it,” Flippen said.
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