Headphones on, jersey buttoned up, cleats laced tight… let’s cue the music. Waka Flocka Flame pours through the headphones singing “No Hands” and Jamie Squires is locked in. With game time rapidly approaching she gives a leaping high five to Lyndsay Hill on her way out of the dugout and then it’s time to play.

Squires is a sophomore here at Oakland University and has already made a big name for herself around campus. In her freshman season she did a lot more than just play— she dominated. Through that first year campaign, Squires racked up some serious hardware. She was awarded Horizon League Co-Freshman of the Year, All-League First Team and All-Freshman Team League Honors. The stats that padded those awards are just unheard of, she led her team in eight offensive categories which included a .344 batting average, 27 RBI’s and six home runs. In addition to those impressive offensive numbers, she started all 46 games of the season.

“Freshman year I was really nervous coming in,” Squires said. “The girls and the coaches were very welcoming, they just helped me settle in and even if I fell into a slump they just picked me up and helped me out of it.”

Squires has been playing softball since she was nine years old and has dedicated a huge part of her life to the game she loves. Whether it was through lessons or travel softball all summer long, there is no question about the amount of commitment Jamie has put towards her game. Head Coach Lauren Cognigni has seen this passion and commitment and she realizes the impact it has on the rest of the team.

“On the field, her work ethic, eagerness to learn and effort are always above average,” Cognigni said. “She is a gritty player with a winners mentality, as a teammate she has an encouraging and competitive way about her which ends up being contagious in the dugout.”

Squires knows that she couldn’t have accomplished all that she has up to this point without the tremendous support of her family.

“My parents are awesome, they saw my love for the game and they wanted me to continue playing,” she said. I told them that I wanted to play for as long as I can and continue my college career.”

When asked on what her favorite part of the game is, Squires said,

“My favorite part is the challenging aspect, I love competition,” Squires said. “Especially when you have your best friends with you, playing against other teams is just so much fun.”

With a fresh face of girls joining the team this season, Squires and the rest of the Golden Grizzlies are eager to get back on the diamond and show the rest of the Horizon League what Oakland softball can do.

Jamie’s Picks

Favorite Color? Blue

Favorite Season? Fall

Favorite Restaurant? Bdubs, Panera

Superpower? Flying

Donuts or Bagels? Donuts

Coffee yes or no? Definitely Yes

Go Blue or Go Green? (Besides Go Black and Go Gold) Go Blue

Favorite Music genre? Country Rap and Pop

Spotify or Apple Music? Apple Music

Netflix or Hulu? Netflix/The Office