General | 10/3/2024 11:45:56 AM
Taylor Kraft is set to begin her fourth season as a member of the Utica University softball team in 2024-25. She serves as the President of Utica University's Student Athlete Advisory Council (SAAC) and enters the upcoming season with a .260 career batting average, four home runs and 47 runs batted in, while appearing in 87 career contests.
A native of Loudonville, NY, Kraft, in addition to being SAAC President at Utica, is also a student ambassador and student government member. She sits on the Strategic Advisory Committee on Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging as the Student-Athlete Chair.
Taylor Kraft - Empire 8 Emerging Leader
Institution: Utica University
Sport: Softball
SAAC Role: President
Major: Health Sciences/Health and Society
GPA: 3.2
Community Service Projects:
MVHS Breast Cancer Awareness Fundraising
Fundraising for the SFM Skatepark Project
Who is a Leader Who Has Made an Impact on You and Why?
My high school softball coach, Rory Ogden, made an impact on me. She led by example and knew how to have fun at practice but also balanced being series when needed. She was always approachable and easy to talk to.
What Type of Leader Are You?
I am a leader who is not afraid to voice the opinions of others, but also someone who creates a welcoming and inclusive environment for everyone to share their thoughts respectfully.
What Makes a Great Leader?
Someone who is willing to stand up for what they believe in.
What Is a Leader's Best Asset?
Being approachable.
What Makes Leadership Difficult?
It is hard to lead a group of students who all come from different backgrounds and different sports. This has also helped me become a better leader because I know that everyone is different to talk to.
What Does Leadership Look Like in a Team Setting?
Taking control in a group setting in order to work for the common goal of the team.
Interesting or Exciting Internships You Have Done or Are Currently Working On:
Last year I had to opportunity to be one of the first clinical groups to work in the new Wynn Hospital in downtown Utica which was very cool.
What Do You Aspire to See Yourself Doing in 10-15 Years?
I see myself being a nurse in 10-15 years working to help others. I am also interested in coaching softball. I have always loved sharing my love for the game with others.
What Are You Most Looking Forward To This Season, Both Athletically and in SAAC?
I am very excited to be able to compete against four new teams this season in the Empire 8. I am also very excited about new SAAC events that we have planned such as t-shirt fundraisers, code orange games and events to get the youth in the Utica area involved with athletes on campus.
Favorite Athletic Memory from Your Time at Utica University:
Making it to the Empire 8 Championship game last year with my team.
Favorite thing about the Empire 8:
Being able to compete in a competitive conference while still being able to focus on my education.
How Has Playing in the Empire 8 Prepared You for Life After College?
Playing in the Empire 8 has allowed me to continue to play the sport that I have loved since I was five years old. This is an opportunity that I have always dreamed of. The Empire 8 focuses on the person first and the athlete second, which has allowed me to become a better person through leadership and competition.
Advice to Incoming Student-Athletes or Younger Teammates?
My biggest advice to younger teammates and new student-athletes is to enjoy every minute you have with your team. Every 6 a.m. lift and every late-night practice, enjoy it. Remember, you never know when the last time you step out onto the field will be because four years of college flies by faster than you would think.
E8 Dozen
1. Favorite Professional Athlete: Mookie Betts
2. Favorite Professional Team: Boston Red Sox
3. Favorite Movie: Mean Girls
4. Last TV Show You Binge Watched: Suits
5. Favorite Ice Cream Flavor: Mint Cookie Crumble from Stewarts
6. Last Vacation You Went On: I went to Florida with my family this summer!
7. Dream Vacation Spot: Zion National Park
8. Favorite Singer/Artist: Noah Kahan
9. If You Could Have Any Super Power, What Would It Be?: I would want to be able to teleport.
10. Fun-Fact About You: I was once on America's Funniest Home Videos
11. Favorite Animal: Sloth
12. Dream Job: ICU/ER Nurse
ABOUT THE EMPIRE 8 CONFERENCE
The members of the Empire 8 Conference are committed first and foremost to the pursuit of academic excellence and the league is regarded as an outstanding NCAA Division III conference. The membership has distinguished itself among its peer group for its quality institutions, spirited and sportsmanlike competition, outstanding services and highly ethical policies and practices. Its commitment to serve the educational needs of its student-athletes is the hallmark of the E8. For more on the Empire 8 visit www.empire8.com.
EMPIRE 8 SOCIAL MEDIA
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