University of North Carolina Athletics
Q And A With Natalie Anter
April 26, 2002 | Softball
April 26, 2002
Natalie Anter's North Carolina softball career is winding down, but she has made sure that her name will remain in the school record books. She's already the school's career leader in home runs, RBI and walks, and the single-season leader in home runs. With six regular season games left to play, the senior catcher from Upland, Calif., is closing in on UNC's career marks for hits, at-bats and games played.
Anter and the Tar Heels will play their final Atlantic Coast Conference games of the season on Saturday against Maryland. Before the start of the weekend, Anter took the time to talk with TarHeelBlue.com about her plans for the future and what she sees ahead for the UNC program.
TarHeelBlue.com: How do you feel about the team this year?
Anter: I think it's a different feeling this year because I know that everyone wants to be there and they want to be there 100 percent of the time. In addition, when we are there working, you are never second-guessing that everyone is trying their best.
THB: What do you think about the future of the team?
Anter: I think that the team is going to do well. They are getting some good recruits in from California. They are going to have good leaders next year with the senior class. They work hard and do what they are supposed to. It should be a fun year for them.
THB: Shannon Walsh, with whom you played in high school, transferred to UNC this year. What has it been like to play with her again?
Anter: It is nice to end your career with someone that you started it with. I am happy she is here and hopefully we will go out together as winners.
THB: What has it been like playing on the team's new field this season?
Anter: I think it brings about a feeling of professionalism. Each game I have a little more pride in what I am doing because it is such a nice venue.
THB: What are your feelings on breaking so many records this season?
Anter: I am very proud of myself. It was never a conscious thing, except for the ones that I knew I could break this season or was a goal in the beginning of the season.
THB: What were your goals for the season?
Anter: I did want to break the single-season home run record. I wanted to become a better batter by having more quality at-bats. I am not really worried about the outcome of my at-bats as long as I know that I was strong in my mind and knew what pitches that I wanted to hit. As long as I have a successful at-bat then I am happy with my performance. I wanted more walks this season.
THB: Do you think that you have accomplished the goals that you made for yourself at the beginning of the season?
Anter: Yes, I do. Personally, I feel like I have been able to accomplish all of the goals that I set for myself.
THB: What are your plans for after you graduate?
Anter: In May, I'm going to Italy to play softball for a club team, then I'll join their national team in July. My mom is a dual citizen and in a few weeks I'll become one, too, so that I can play on their national team. We'll play at the World Championships in Canada in July to try to qualify for the Olympics. Besides softball, I want to travel the world.
