PITMAN--There's no doubt the NJAC boasts some extremely talented athletes but we want fans to know that there's more to these athletes than just their accomplishments on the field, court, etc. The NJAC Student-Athlete Spotlight highlights one student-athlete each Friday.
 
The NJAC Student-Athlete Spotlight for the week ending February 15th comes to us from The College of New Jersey. A junior softball player from Byram, NJ, Deanna Utter is currently pursuing a degree in Health and Exercise Science.
 
Name: Deanna Utter
Instituion: The College of New Jersey
Year: Junior
Sport: Softball
Hometown, State: Byram, NJ
High School: Lenape Valley Regional
Major: Health and Exercise Science
 
What made you choose your institution?
I chose TCNJ because of it's great academics and beautiful campus. I am also far enough from home to feel on my own, but close enough for my parents to be able to come and watch our games. Dr.June Walker Field is a nice little bonus!
 
What made you want to become a DIII collegiate athlete? 
I wanted to be a Division III collegiate athlete because I would be able to focus on both academics and athletics. I wanted to be able to tackle a challenge both in the classroom and on the field.
 
What was your first memory of playing your sport?
My first memory of playing softball stems back to t-ball, where my biggest concern was not wearing bright undergarments that could be seen through my softball pants. Because when that happened, it was mortifying!
 
What has been the greatest or most memorable moment of your experience as a collegiate athlete?
My most memorable moment that I have experienced as a collegiate athlete happened on our way to Florida last spring break. We were on our way out of the airport going to wait for the vans. I had my suitcase in one hand, a Gatorade jug in the other, and my bat bag on my back. I thought we needed to go down another level on the escalator, to find out I was wrong. Just as I stepped on the second escalator, my teammate said "no!" but it was too late. I started running up the down escalator trying to get back to the platform, when Coach comes walking around the corner and yells "DEANNA!" At that moment, my suitcase hits the escalator and I wipe out, riding down the rest of the way on my knees. I get up to see Coach crying of laughter and an entire collegiate baseball team pointing and laughing at me. I did not know that my face was capable of turning that shade of red, haha.
 
Do you have any pre-game rituals? If so, what are they?
I do not have any pregame rituals. The only thing I do the same before every game is put a bow in my hair.
 
What famous athlete do you look up to?
I look up most to Derek Jeter. Not only was he an amazing athlete, he was also an outstanding leader. It was obvious that he was always pushing himself to improve and not settling for mediocre. It is easy to take a practice or even a little natural talent for granted, but after watching Jeter play, it is even easier to get back to work and work harder than ever before.
 
Where do you see yourself in five years?
In 5 years I see myself graduated from graduate school, with my Doctorate of Physical Therapy. I'd like to be working in an outpatient clinic and eventually practicing physical therapy for War Veterans.
 
What is your favorite part of competing in the NJAC?
My favorite part about being an NJAC student-athlete is the competition that we face in this conference. No game is ever a guarantee, and it is crucial to come out bringing your A game every game if you do not want to be disappointed at the end of the day.
 
What is your biggest accomplishment OFF the field, court, etc.?
My biggest accomplishment off the field is making Dean's List for 4 semesters.
 
Quick facts about Deanna:
Can't live without:  Family (including friends and dog), chocolate and laughter.
Favorite movie: A League of Their Own, pretty cliché I know!
Favorite class you've ever taken: I really enjoy all my major classes, but my favorite class that I have taken was Anatomy and Physiology. The professor was awesome and I loved learning about topics that I could apply to my everyday life.
Favorite food: I'm going to have to go with chicken franchaise. I love my mom's! I'll eat it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. It's that good!
Biggest Fear: Masks! They terrify me. You can always count me out for any haunted Halloween festivities.
Favorite musical artist: I honestly do not have a favorite artist, I'm more of a song by song girl. I either like the song or I don't. I enjoy dancing, so if a song allows me to do that, I like it!
 
*The NJAC Student-Athlete Spotlight deadline is every Friday by 10:00 AM. Fill out the survey and you could be selected!