Allison Hinton

University of Houston-Victoria student Allison Hinton came to the university to combine two of her passions. A softball player since age 7, she now plays third base for the Jaguars, and she’s pursuing a degree in history.

“Softball has been a part of my life since I was very young, and I’ve always enjoyed learning about the past and how it’s led us to where we are today,” she said. “With my degree from UHV, I can become a certified history teacher and coach softball at the same time. That’s my dream, and I get to spend my time in Victoria playing ball.”

With one season under her belt with the Jaguars, Hinton is proving to be a team asset. She recently was selected for the 2010 Louisville Slugger/National Fastpitch Coaches Association National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics All-American second team. She also savored her first grand slam against Faulkner University during the Orange Beach Classic tournament in March in Alabama.

“The bases were loaded, but we were behind 7-2 for the game, so when I hit that grand slam, it brought us within one run,” she said. “All my teammates ran out to the plate to cheer me on. I was so excited I couldn’t even talk.”

Hinton also was voted to the 2010 Louisville Slugger/NFCA NAIA All-Southwest Region first team. She maintained a .368 batting average throughout the season.

“My first season with the Jaguars was really good,” she said. “They’re a great team, and I was able to help them out when they needed it. That was the best feeling knowing I could do that.”

Now Hinton wants to share that experience with younger students through coaching.

“I don’t know what I’d do without softball, and I just want to help other kids who want to play this sport feel the way I do now,” she said. “Athletics are so important. Sports keep you involved in school and motivate you to work hard in your classes. There are so many benefits to being an athlete.”

Hinton said one of her favorite experiences since joining the Jaguars has been mentoring young students. Once a week she spends time with local students at Hopkins Elementary in Victoria, reading to them and helping them with their homework.

“The kids get so excited because you’re a softball player,” she said. “It really brightens their day, and it’s just a great experience getting to help them.”

Hinton, whose hometown is Matagorda, will graduate in the spring of 2012. She said she’s looking forward to her next season of softball. Her goal is to help the Jaguars make it to the national championships.

The UHV Outstanding Student is an online feature highlighting the exceptional students who attend the University of Houston-Victoria. To nominate a student, contact UHV Communications Manager Paula Cobler  or call 361-570-4350