SAAC Spotlight: Western Washington's Joie Baker
Baker pitched 80 innings and 63 strikeouts in the 2022 season.
Baker pitched 80 innings and 63 strikeouts in the 2022 season.

Friday, November 11, 2022

Part of a regular series.

Throughout the year, GNACsports.com uses this space to profile conference student-athletes who are members of their respective institutions’ Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC). In addition to providing feedback on the student-athlete experience, conference and institutional SAAC members also offer input on the rules, regulations, and policies that affect student-athletes’ lives on NCAA member institution campuses.

Name: Joie Baker
Sport: Softball
Institution: Western Washington
Year: Sophomore
Major: Biology
Hometown: Mililani, Hawai'i

Why did you choose to attend WWU?: I chose to attend Western Washington because of the athletic team and academic program offered here. I just felt that the school was very welcoming and promoted a positive atmosphere.

What is your favorite class you have taken in college and why?: American Sign Language because it was a different experience and overall a nice change in comparison to my regular classes.

How many years have you been involved in SAAC?: This is my first year.

What made you want to be involved in SAAC?: I thought it would be a good idea to get more involved in athletics and represent my team as a whole.

How do you feel participating in SAAC will help you in life after you graduate?: I feel that it will further improve my leadership skills as well as my involvement in conversations. I feel this role will promote good speaking habits as well and encourage me to step outside of my comfort zone.
 
What is the most important thing you've learned from balancing the demands of athletics and academics?: The importance of time management and keeping up with your school work. With the amount of traveling and extensive practice schedules, it’s important to stay organized and on time with completing assignments.
 
What is the biggest obstacle you have overcome during your collegiate career?: Mental blocks and a negative mindset. Currently, I wouldn’t say I’ve totally overcome the idea of a mental block but I’ve seen improvements in my mental strength throughout the year that makes me a better player today. I’ve struggled with low confidence and throughout the year I’ve been able to find a sense of strength.
 
What does it mean to you to be a Division II student-athlete?: It means everything. From a young age, I’ve been aiming to play softball at a collegiate level, and to finally accomplish that is a huge achievement. Nevertheless, it just means I need to work harder to prove myself.
 
What is the best advice you would give to an incoming freshman?: The best people to be around are your teammates. They bring out the best in you and encourage you to be your best self. Make memories and enjoy the program.
 
What is your most memorable sports moment so far?: Being able to play in our fall season game at the University of Washington in October 2022.
 
If you could spend the day with one person (past or present), who would it be and why?: My grandma. She was my No. 1 supporter and I feel that’s the only person that would seem appropriate to spend my day with.
 
Favorite Sports Team: Los Angeles Angels
 
Favorite Athlete: Manti Te’o

What is one thing that people don't know about you?: I enjoy grocery shopping.