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Sophomore Cynthia Javaras and the Virginia softball team will get their second chance at an ACC opener when the Cavaliers head to Raleigh, to face NC State in a three-game series this weekend. The two teams will play a doubleheader at 1 p.m. Saturday and the series will conclude with a noon game on Sunday. Javaras recently sat down with VirginiaSports.com to talk about the upcoming series with the Wolfpack, being a slapper, what influenced her decision to come to UVa and what she likes to do for fun.
Question: Was it hard not to be able to play last weekend due to the rainouts? Are you ready to try again at NC State?
Javaras: It was really disappointing that we were rained out and couldn’t play but we have refocused on this week and NC State. We have a full week of practice, which we haven’t had in awhile, so that should help us refocus.
Question: You took two of three games from NC State at home last year. Does that come into play at all or do you leave it in the past?
Javaras: I don’t think we revert back to last year. This is a new season. We know we can compete and take the series. I think everyone is really excited to finally get going in the ACC and get off to a strong start.
Question: What will you have to do to play well and get some wins this weekend?
Javaras: Mainly just play our game. If we keep things simple we will be fine.
Question: What have been the biggest differences for you personally from last year to this year?
Javaras: Definitely second-year you adjust to things better and you know what to expect. You are better adjusted all the way around.
Question: What has it been like for you to turn around to the left and become a slapper?
Javaras: The hardest part is attacking your pitch. It sounds so simple but there are a lot of little things that go into it: timing, posture, keeping your line. It looks easy but there are a lot of things you have to do right. But you have a good shot at getting on base. Laying down bunts is fun and you get on base more.
Question: If you could play any position, regardless of talent, where would it be?
Javaras: I would have to say shortstop. You are in every play and there is always action going on around you. Sometimes in the outfield it’s hard to stay focused. I think short is the best position. You have to be on your toes every time.
Question: How did you get started playing softball?
Javaras: It all started with t-ball back when I was four or five, playing for the Princeton Bananas. Then it just grew from there. My family has an annual slow pitch game every year so that kind of got me into it as well.
Question: What made you want to come to UVa?
Javaras: As soon as I set foot on Grounds I just knew that I wanted to be here. My favorite color is orange so that was a big plus for me. Obviously the program is building and it’s exciting to be a part of. The academics are unmatched, I think, in terms of the bigger schools out there. All-in-all it’s a great place.
Question: Have you thought about a major yet?
Javaras: I am going to declare psychology after the semester. I have always liked to read about people’s personalities and the different theories of why they are the way they are. I have always been interested in it but have no particular plans. I am just kind of floating along right now.
Question: What has been your favorite class?
Javaras: Probably social psychology. We learn about groups of people interacting and how social situations impact people’s behavior. It mostly has to do with past events but some of the studies are current so they tie in well.
Question: What do you like to do for fun?
Javaras: As you know, my roommates (Alison Pittman and Allee Rife) have been bashing me about Quiddler. I have won a couple games so I think I can hold my own. It always comes down to the last round with the 10-word cards. So I have to keep up with my Quiddler skills. Softball, homework, Quiddler, that is pretty much all my time.
Question: What is your favorite spot on Grounds?
Javaras: Definitely the Lawn. I don’t visit as much as I would like but when I have time I like to go. It’s good people-watching.