Name: Aliyah Heredia

Sport: Softball

Position: Infielder

Year: Sophomore

Hometown: Lombard

High School: Glenbard West

Lily Goodfellow: When did you start playing softball?

Aliyah Heredia: I started playing softball when I was about 11 or 12 years old. A lot of people started a lot earlier than me. I feel like I started quite late.

LG: What is your favorite part of playing for COD?

AH: My favorite part of playing for COD is probably the atmosphere. Me and my teammates all get along really well. I’m glad that we do, because I feel like it brings [out more] positive energy and we play a lot better. And also, the coaches are amazing.

LG: What strengths do you have that make you a great athlete?

AH: I feel like my strengths are that I’m someone who can be taught. I take all the advice from my coach that I can so I can be better. I also feel like I’m a good teammate, as well. I don’t try to think negatively. I always try to think positively.

LG: Have you dealt with any injuries?

AH: Yes, I’ve had a lot of injuries, actually. I’ve had three concussions and I’ve sprained my ankle multiple times My wrist, as well. Those are probably the worst ones. I broke my nose, too. I forgot about that one.

LG: What motivates you when you aren’t playing well or your team is losing?

AH: I just try to think [that] softball is a game you’re supposed to have fun in. So I always just think [about having] fun and making an error is not the end of the world. I know my team is not going to be upset with me. So I always try to think positively about that, as well.

LG: What are your future goals with softball?

AH: I possibly want to go to a four year college and play softball. I have talked to some coaches about it, but I’m not too sure about it yet. 

LG: Who is your biggest supporter?

AH: It would definitely be my family. My parents are very supportive of me. They try to come to every single game. My older sister, as well. My younger sister has been watching me play and now she plays softball, as well. It’s nice.

LG: What is your favorite food?

AH: My favorite food would have to be french fries. It’s a very simple answer but I love french fries. I can never get tired of them. Or ice cream. I do love ice cream.

LG: If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go?

AH: I’ve always wanted to go to Hawaii. My favorite Disney movie is “Lilo and Stitch.” The movie is based in Hawaii, so ever since I was a kid, I have always wanted to go to Hawaii.

LG: What one word best describes you?

AH: A lot of people say I’m funny. I guess that’s a good trait [to have]. Everyone describes me that way. So, I’d say it’s funny.

LG: Thank you very much, Aliyah.

AH: Yeah, no problem. Thank you.