In the coming weeks, we will be highlighting senior student-athletes from all spring sports whose seasons – and in many cases careers – were cut short due to cancellation of competition across all sports in response to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. On March 30, the NCAA Division I Council voted to extend the eligibility for spring-sport student-athletes and allow schools to provide an additional season of competition. While some will take advantage of the additional season, others will graduate and move on to their next chapter in life, bringing an untimely end to their athletic careers.

When Lauren Brooks was named Southland Conference Hitter of the Week on March 9, nobody knew at the time it would be the final weekly award of the 2020 season. When the conference announced the cancellation of the season the following week, it ended what was shaping up to be the best of Brooks' career with @UCASoftball. She took home the accolade after batting .800 with a 1.600 slugging percentage with a home run, 7 RBI and 3 runs scored during that weekend's series with UIW, and finished the season with career highs in batting average and slugging percentage. Through just 16 games, she had 13 RBI – only five off of equaling her highest season total of 18 set in 2019. She concludes the 2020 season with career totals of 6 home runs; 58 RBI; 73 hits; 25 extra-base hits; 45 runs scored; and 45 bases on balls. 


What is your major?
I am a dual major of Psychology and Exercise Science with a minor in political science. 

What are your future plans/career goals?
My future plans are to do Athletic training. 

What were your thoughts when you found out the season was being canceled?
I was upset when season first got canceled however I know it is worth it if less people get sick. 

What led you to UCA?
Coach Kuhn and Coach P both came to my practice my sophomore year of high school. When I came to see the school on a visit I really liked the school, coaches, and the team atmosphere. 

What has been your favorite thing about your time here?
My favorite thing is the bond you form with your teammates. 

What is one of your best memories from your career?
My favorite memory is my freshman year when I hit my first home run of the season against Lamar to win the game. 

What is one of the most embarrassing moments from your career?
When I was catching sophomore year the wind was really bad that game and I missed two foul fly balls because I over ran them and I looked stupid. 

Who is someone who has had a major impact on you – be it in your athletic career or personally?
My mom has had a major impact on me both with my athletic career and personally. She has been my rock my whole life and has helped me through everything. 

What is your favorite activity or best talent outside of your sport?
I love to bake. 

If you had to be quarantined with four celebrities, who would they be?
Beyoncé, Rihanna, Meg thee Stallion, Michael B Jordan

If you were going to be isolated in your house for a month, what are the first three items you'd make sure to grab at the store?
Coffee, Meat, and dog food for my puppy 

One musical artist you'd recommend to everybody?
Meg Thee Stallion 

What's a show you're currently watching, or have recently?
Power

You have the power to make one law – what would it be?
Free Healthcare for everyone. 

If you could give your 10 year-old self one piece of advice, what would it be?
To have fun and listen to your mom because she knows everything and you do not. 


Previous Senior Spotlights:
Mark Moyer, Baseball
Callie Kennemore, Cheer
Kayla Crutchmer, Softball
Paul Rouse, Baseball