The Golden Gophers have two three-game series remaining this season with both being home matchups against Purdue and Iowa.
HIGH SCHOOL: Graduated from Sandra Day O'Connor High School in Phoenix, Ariz. • two-time all-state selection (2009 and 2010) and a three-time all-region honoree (2008-10) • batted .495 with 51 RBI, 19 doubles and six home runs during 2010 • won three regional championships (2008-10) • played three seasons on O'Connor's golf team • member of National Honor Society and the Society of Female Scholars • earned all-academic region honors for golf and was named to the NFCA All-Academic Softball team in 2008 • coached by Melissa and Jason Shepherd and Rob Latona • also competed for the Arizona Hotshots from 2007-10.
GET TO KNOW KAITLYN RICHARDSON: Why the University of Minnesota? When I first got to campus I fell in love with everything. The girls were great and all the support here to off was phenomenal. Although this was all great, the deciding factor was the coaches. I loved their intensity and drive to win and all their goals were common goals of mine. I know that this was the school that I was going to reach my maximum potential at.
What is it like to play for Minnesota? I love playing here for the U. The team is really competitive and it's a great atmosphere. We have great team chemistry and I enjoy every minute of practice.
Favorite professor? Professor Helm because he has a passion for teaching that is so prevalent throughout his lectures.
First softball memory? Always being so small. Any time I was on a team I was ALWAYS the smallest player. If I was playing up I would walk up to practice and people would say how "cute" I looked; I hated it!! Then I grew and actually passed up all the girls that use to be taller than me.
Favorite athlete of all-time? Tom Brady because he is one of the most driven players I have ever seen, and he has a mentality that he wants to prove himself anytime he can (even though he is one of the best ever). He never stops and is an extraordinary leader.
Game/reality show you would like to be on? The Price is Right!!! Only if Bob Barker came back host the show I was on... I love this show!! My brothers and I use to watch it every day in the summer at 9 am! it's the best game show out there.
Favorite place to eat in Dinkytown? Mesa Pizza!! I can't get enough mac and cheese pizza.
Guilty pleasure song? "Here We Go" by N'Sync
Bucket list Visit my family members in Spain Zip lining
