MSU Billings Softball Player to Play in Australia (12/8/05)

BILLINGS, MT – Yellowjacket junior third baseman Megan Moeller is busy readying for finals in her first semester at Montana State-Billings.  She’s also busy raising money for a two-week trip to play softball in Australia this summer.

The junior transfer from Mount Hood Community College is in her first year at MSU Billings majoring in Psychology.  An Ontario, Ore., native, Moeller was an all-conference second team selection at MHCC after earning all-state honors at Ontario High School, where she graduated in 2003.

Moeller will play for USA Athletes International in the Invitational Friendship Softball Series in Australia this summer.  The tournament runs June 30 to July 12.  Athletes are responsible for raising or paying $4,298 to cover their share of the team’s expenses as set forth by the NCAA with respect to foreign tours guidelines.  Moeller will be raising part of her funds by selling USA International Softball t-shirts.  Those wishing to assist her can buy a shirt or donate money by calling 541-889-2272 or 208-739-1614.

“I love the game, and I love competition,” said Moeller.  “People told me I wouldn’t be able to play this caliber of softball.  I want people to know me as the player who wouldn’t take no for an answer, and that no matter what the situation, I gave it my absolute best without any regrets.”

The Yellowjackets begin spring practice in January and play their first official games during a seven day trip to Phoenix in early February.  Moeller will be playing for first year head coach Sean McGary, who took over the program this summer.  The Yellowjackets were 36-14 last year and qualified for the NCAA Tournament where they finished third in the West Region.

“Megan brings extremely solid defense to our team, and I feel she will be one of the conference’s best third basemen,” said McGary.  “We are fortunate to have Megan come in and solidify third base, which was a concern after losing all-conference third baseman Sara Hanley.  Megan’s work ethic is tremendous.  She is one of those players who’s first to arrive, last to leave, and just can’t get enough instruction to satisfy her mission to be the best player she can be.  The unique thing about her is she carries the same attitude in the classroom.  She’s extremely dedicated to finishing her degree and working with young children.”