Maddie Kluna is in the midst of one of the finest seasons posted by a Saint Joseph's College pitcher. As of May 12th, the junior right-hander is 14-3 with a 2.06 ERA and 122 strikeouts - against just 19 walks - in 112 innings. Her 2011 K total ranks as the fourth-highest single-season mark in program history and she is fifth in the softball career annals with 227 punch-outs. A two-time All-GNAC honoree, Kluna's efforts this spring have helped the Monks make their first-ever NCAA DIII Softball Tournament appearance.
Head Coach Jamie Smyth '92:
"Maddie is on her way to becoming one of the elite pitchers to play here at Saint Joseph's College. I'm not sure that I have ever coached a pitcher that has more drive than Maddie. She throws a wide variety of pitches with great control making her very tough to hit. Maddie is never satisfied with what she has accomplished and continually works on becoming better in each and every start."
Full name: Madylan Frances Kluna
Born when and where? July 27 1990 in Houston, Texas
Year: Junior
Major: Accounting
Hometown: Bellaire, Texas
High School: Bonny Eagle High School
Sport(s) and position(s): Softball / Pitcher
Favorites
Song: "Cowboy take me away" by the Dixie Chicks
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Professional Sports Team: Boston Red Sox
Athlete: Craig Biggio, Alyssa Dunn
Food: anything my mom cooks
T.V. Show(s): I don't watch much television, but when I do it's usually sports or Sports Center
Movie(s): Toy Story, Giant, The Fighter
Book: To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
Feature Questions
Why did you choose Saint Joseph's College?
I chose St. Joe's because of its small community atmosphere, its small class sizes, and close interaction with professors.
What is/was your favorite class at St. Joe's and why?
My favorite class at St. Joe's is Economics with Professor Zerillo. It's a course that is very useful in any major.
What was your first job (actually received a paycheck)?
My first job was at a horse farm in Gorham; I gave lessons and did a lot of the routine work to be done on a horse farm.
Who would you like to trade places for a day with and why?
If I could trade places with anyone, I would like to trade places with my grandmother when she was younger and living in Cuba. The way she describes her childhood makes me want to see what it was like for her. She is one of the strongest and sweetest people I have ever known.
What is on your "Bucket List?"
To travel as much as I can before settling down. I would take memorable experiences over possessions any day.
Talent you'd most like to have:
I would love to be able to draw, write poetry, or play an instrument, just to be more creative.
What do you drive?
99' Volkswagen Jetta
What is your motto?
Other things may change, but we start and end with family
Do you have any superstitions before you go into a big game?
Not really any superstitions - just to get into a very focused state of mind.
Why did you choose your jersey #?
I chose #13 because it is my mom's favorite number.
What is your most memorable moment as an athlete at SJC?
My most memorable moment so far has been winning our 23rd game straight and tying the longest winning streak in St. Joe's history in our 2010 season.
Who has had the greatest impact on your life?
My parents and my brother have had the greatest impact on my life. My parents have sacrificed a lot for me to be able to reach my goals. They always support me, and have never missed a game. My dad even went so far as to take a bus all the way to Florida to watch my game when his flight got cancelled due to weather. They have been there for me every step of the way and I will never forget that. My brother has made a huge impact on my life as well. I have always looked up to him. We have always been close as he is only a year and 12 days older than me. He has shown me that no matter what you do, if you work hard at it, you will succeed. My best friend, Alyssa Dunn, who I love like a sister, has been someone that I have looked up to since I have met her back in the youth softball days. She is an incredible student and athlete. It's going to be hard to see her graduate this year knowing it's our last year playing together.
Can you tell us something about you that most people don't know?
Most people don't know that Craig Morgan, the country singer, is my third cousin.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
In five years I see myself with a masters degree, my CPA, and saving to buy my first house.
If you could meet anyone (past or present) who would it be and why?
I would like to meet the 1994-1995 Houston Rocket's with players like Hakeem Olajuwon, and Clyde Drexler. They became the lowest seeded team to ever win the NBA finals.
What are your hobbies?
Sports, working out, listening to music, reading books, watching sports, being outdoors, fishing, shooting sporting clays, etc.
What is your ideal day away from athletics?
An ideal day away from athletics would be a day on the lake relaxing with friends and family.
Do you plan on playing sports or coaching after you graduate?
I would love to coach after I graduate, I would find that very rewarding. I know I'm going to miss being around the sport.
What are your personal and team goals for this season?
My personal goals for the season would be to win my starts and stay healthy throughout the season. Our team goals are to host and win the GNAC tournament.
Anything else you'd like to add?
Our team is like a family, I would love nothing more than to share a GNAC win with them. We have tons of talent and if we all play hard we are unstoppable! To my catcher, Maria Labbe, it's been great working with you (thirteen & fourteen). Thank you to Coach Smyth, Coach Moll, Coach Ash, Coach Bailey, and Anna! We have an incredible coaching staff, and it's been an honor to play for them.
