Bailey “Boo” Vannoy, an outfielder/catcher for the Charlotte 49ers softball team, is ready for the season to kick off Thursday, Feb. 9, v. South Carolina. Get to know the graduate student from Leander, Texas, recently named C-USA Preseason Player of the Year for the second year in a row, in the Q&A below.
How long have I been playing softball?
I have been playing softball since I was 4 years old. I started playing t-ball at the YMCA with my best bud and older brother, Cody. What I have always loved about the sport is the freedom it gives me to be myself. When it’s time to be goofy, I can do that. When it's time to stay focused, be disciplined and get a job done, I can do that, too. The sport is competitive, quickly paced, high energy and team oriented, but you still have moments to shine. When everyone has moments to shine, the real magic happens and it’s a lot of fun to be a part of.
What are your upcoming goals for the season?
With this season being the end of my collegiate career, my goals look a little different. My goal for the team is to win the C-USA championship with the best coaching staff and teammates around. As far as my individual goals, statistics wise, I would like to hit 25 home runs. Other than that, my goal is to not take a moment or game for granted and to truly enjoy where my feet are in every moment while I’m on the field or associated with softball.
What are three words that describe UNC Charlotte?
Three words that describe UNC Charlotte are family, opportunity and joyful.
What do you like to do when you’re not studying or training?
My favorite things to do away from the field and training is definitely nap, read a book or sit at a coffee shop and read my Bible.
What is a fun fact about you that many people don’t know?
My favorite snack is dill pickles. A less known fact about me is that I used to be in theater productions from fifth grade to ninth grade.