Jillian Mathis has been a softball player here at UIS for the last four years. She has been a threat at the plate throughout her career and has helped the Lady Stars in countless games. The Stars are deep in their season, handing out losses to opponents like free samples. Jill has been a reason for the Stars’ success, recording numerous hits and RBIs throughout this season. As the ladies move through the season, they are looking forward to success in the conference tournament and working towards bringing home some hardware. Apart from her prowess on the diamond, Jillian’s sense of humor is unmatched. She has a great personality and never fails to make those around her laugh. I thought her personality would pair well with my style of interviews, and she did not disappoint. I hope the takeaway from this interview is that our athletes here at UIS are much more than just their sport; they all are great people as well.
The Observer: What age did you start playing softball, and do you remember your first team’s name?
Jillian: I started playing softball at 10. I played rec ball for Battle Ground Recreation! My first travel team (was when) I was 12 years old and played for the Indiana Hornets! We lost every game. We sucked.
The Observer: What has been your favorite bat you have ever used?
Jillian: Easton Ghost bats.
The Observer: You get three people, dead or alive, to have dinner with for a night. Who are you picking?
Jillian: Rihanna, Beyonce, and Lindsay Ladere.
The Observer: How many raccoons would it take to bring down an elephant?
Jillian: 30 with rabies.
The Observer: What is one name you would never name your kid?
Jillian: Jeffery.
The Observer: If you were a dog, what breed would you be?
Jillian: American hairless terrier.
The Observer: What is the worst smell you have ever smelled?
Jillian: My softball cleats
The Observer: If you got arrested, what would it probably be for?
Jillian: Stealing Sour Patch Kids from Walmart.
The Observer: Tell me your favorite dad joke.
Jillian: “If April showers bring May flowers, what do May flowers bring?” “Pilgrims.”
The Observer: What’s one word you will always need autocorrect to spell?
Jillian: There’s too much to remember. Autocorrect is a lifesaver.
The Observer: You can only have one type of food for a year. Breakfast, lunch, or dinner?
Jillian: Breakfast
The Observer: Go-to pre-game song?
Jillian: “I Got Juice” by Yo Gotti.
The Observer: Death row meal?
Jillian: Fried pickles for an appetizer, Panda Express, Texas Roadhouse rolls, Dr. Pepper, and strawberry shortcake for dessert.
The Observer: Quote to live by?
Jillian: YOLO.
