Softball | 12/18/2020 8:50:00 AM
Kaiya Sundeen is not only a key contributor on the softball diamond for Minnesota State University Moorhead — she also plays an active role off the playing field as a Dragon, too.
Sundeen is the president of MSUM's Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) and the group is looking to have an active role on campus. She's part of the leadership team that includes co-vice presidents Rachel Schumacher, Brooklyn Liegel and Clay Jackson.
The MSUM held a Mental Health Awareness week in November, with plans to do a Make-A-Wish event, a food drive and a joint campaign regarding social justice with Dragons Stand Together during the spring semester.
"I really like it," Sundeen said of the leadership role. "I get to work with a great group of athletes and people. We can make a big difference and that's what makes me so excited about it."
She joined SAAC as a sophomore in 2019-20 after attending a meeting after encouragement from MSUM head softball coach Amanda Reckamp and then-teammate Madison Paige.
"I was really excited," Sundeen said. "I said this sounds like something I'd like to be a part of it."
On the softball field, Sundeen is versatile. She's able to play every position from outfield to catcher to second base to short stop, among others. In two seasons at MSUM she's started 55 of the 61 games the Dragons have played.
"My freshman year I played every position besides pitcher," Sundeen said. "I love playing wherever I'm needed."
A native of Hudson, Wis., she found MSUM appealing, both in atmosphere and because of the chance to play softball.
"I wanted to go somewhere further away from home and meet more people," Sundeen said. "I liked the campus and how it looked and felt. I enjoyed the Dragon community.
"I'm very glad (I came here). I would not have had the experiences and friendships I have if I didn't come here. I'm very thankful for MSUM."
Originally, Sundeen planned to major in pre-physical therapy to work with children with disabilities, but found an interest in medicine. Her goal is to attend medical school to become a pediatrician after obtaining her degree in biology: health and medical sciences, emphasis in pre-med. She plans to graduate in May 2022.
Regarding softball, the 2020 season was abruptly halted because of the Covid-19 pandemic after the Dragons had played 14 games.
"We took advantage of still getting work in when things weren't normal," Sundeen said. "We were able to meet over Zoom and do workouts, That was huge for our team."
The good news is the team was able to practice outdoors in the fall and is hopeful for a full 2021 season.
"Our big goal make it to conference tournament, make it in the top 10. That's our big team goal," Sundeen said.
"Honestly, we're willing to do whatever it takes to get to play. Whatever takes, we'll do it."
