Batter Up

Hitting a game-winning grand slam against No. 3 Washington is one of Alyssa Barrera’s favorite memories as a Ute. But it’s just one of her many impressive moments as an outfielder on the U’s softball team. Barrera has been a starter for every game since arriving on campus, and last season she led her team in hits (59), doubles (9), runs scored (30), and slugging percentage (.599). Triples have been her specialty as she has tied the U record for most in a season (7), led the Pac-12 conference, and ranked fifth nationally. “The U is a perfect fit for me,” she says. "We’re serious contenders, and we still have a lot of fun together."