Name: Kathryn to my family, but most people call me Katie!
Nickname: Squirrel
Where were you born: St. Louis MO
Hometown: St. Louis born and raised!!!
High School: Nerinx Hall High School, GO MARKERS
College: Saint Louis University
Major: Health Management and Public Health
Tell us how you became a FOX Sports Girl
During the initial search for a FOX Sports Midwest Girl, I met the Midwest team and really hit it off with them! We stayed in contact while I finished a year of school then an opening came up to add another Girl! My love of St. Louis sports opened the door to joining the FOX Sports Midwest Girls and I am thankful for the opportunity every day.
What has been your favorite experience as a FOX Sports Girl?
I LOVE everything about being a FOX Sports Midwest Girl, it is so hard to narrow down! My favorite experience so far has been traveling to the Special Olympics in New Jersey to help participate in the medal presentation ceremonies. I am truly thankful to have played a small role in such an amazing event.
What is your favorite sports memory?
I think I fell in love with sports all over again during the 2012 MLB season. After supporting the Cardinals through every single game as a member of Team Fredbird, I was lucky enough to be there to celebrate the NLCS division win and to throw out the confetti! I don’t really even have words to describe that experience! I get chills thinking about it still!
For the ultimate sports fan, what are the three things you recommend them to experience in your city?
How can I pick just three?! First, I would recommend any baseball fan, not just Cardinal Fans, to check out Ballpark Village! The atmosphere is all about sports and there is a Hall of Fame museum that is hard to pass up. Second, I would recommend actually attending a Cardinal's game. There is so much energy inside of Busch and the fans are unbelievably dedicated, there is nothing like it! Finally, the ultimate sports fan needs to check out Scottrade center for a Blues game! The Blues do a wonderful job of involving fans in the festivities and there is not a bad seat in the house!
Who has been the greatest influence on you being a sports fan and why?
I would have to say my grandpa. For as far back as I can remember, he was always watching baseball and talking about his days of playing on a farm team himself. Whenever we would go to Cardinals games, he never missed a play and was cheering louder than anyone else there! I definitely inherited those traits from him. For us, it has always been more than just knowing the statistics. It is about sticking by your teams season after season, regardless of their record.
If you could play any position/role on any team what would it be and why?
I would probably make a decent running back! I am small enough to hide behind my blockers and can use my speed when I need to. Don't worry, I already have a touchdown dance ready to go!
Girls are involved in many community and charitable initiatives. Please tell us about your experiences and if you have a favorite charity or group that you work with.
One of the main reasons I aspired to be a FOX Sports Girl was their impressive commitment to charity. Recently, we ran a 5k for Girls on the Run. I was blown away by the continual growth of the Girls on the Run community. At every point in the race, the route was lined with supportive parents and coaches; all of the runners were so determined! I am lucky to just have been a part of it all. Those girls ROCK and I can't wait to spend a day with them again!
The FOX Sports Girls participate in the annual Spring Training to the Troops trip. What ties to the military do you have? (Family, friends?)
Both of my grandfathers are veteran. My grandpa who I share a love of sports with has a purple heart! Two very close friends of mine are in the Air Force and I am so proud of them! I pray for them and our men every day!
First game you ever attended?
My mom has a picture of me around 10 months old wearing a diaper and a Cardinals hat watching the baseball game in pure fascination! I was destined to be a fan!
Are you superstitious? If so, what are some of your pre-game/during the game rituals?
I have a lucky bandana! Every time I wore it when I worked for the Cardinals as a headband, we won!! Looks like I may need to test that accessory out again soon!
What sports did you play growing up?
I tried just about every sport growing up! I loved to play outside, especially wiffle ball! I was a gymnast for a very long time then in high school, I was a cheerleader, dancer, and diver. In college, I was a cheerleader for the St. Louis Cardinals which most people refer to as Team Fredbird.
What’s your favorite sports rivalry?
Cubs and Cards or Auburn and Alabama!
What is your go-to super bowl dish?
Buffalo Chicken Dip! I hosted a super bowl party this year and it was a hit! I could really go for some right now.
Do you have any sports events on your bucket list?
YES! I would love to go to an Iron Bowl. My family has alumni from both Auburn and Alabama so what a fun-loving rivalry to attend together after Thanksgiving!
What is your favorite sports movie?
The Blind Side! No question.
What # would you wear if you played sports?
10. It's my mom's birthday and it was my number growing up.
What would your walk up song be?
My Body by Young the Giant.
Name the local sports heroes from your hometown.
David Freese, Max Scherzer, Paul Stastny and Jimmy Connors are a few of my favorites but ST. LOUIS is full of heroes and I am so proud to be supporting them!
