I chose Ohio Wesleyan because of the science programs here, specifically the close connections with the Columbus Zoo...
Name: Makenna Knisley
Class year: 2026
Majors: Zoology and psychology
Why did you choose Ohio Wesleyan?
I chose Ohio Wesleyan because of the science programs here, specifically the close connections with the Columbus Zoo. I also loved how small and "family-like" the campus felt when I visited. The campus is also beautiful and not too far away from home.
Why did you choose your major?
I have always loved animals and knew since I was very young that I wanted to work with them in my career. I first thought that I wanted to be a veterinarian, but since coming to OWU, I have found an interest in psychology. I find it very interesting how animals think and behave, and think majoring in both zoology and psychology will be useful in my intended career as a zookeeper.
Why did you choose to compete in sports at Ohio Wesleyan?
I chose to compete in sports at OWU because I wasn't quite ready to hang my cleats up and the softball program seemed like a great fit for me. The family atmosphere that this team has was so evident on my visit and I knew that being part of a program like OWU softball would make my college experience that more enjoyable.
Do you have any pre-event rituals or superstitions?
I don't really have any rituals or superstitions. My teammates like to say that I am pretty low-maintenance when it comes to that type of stuff. However, I always have a coffee on game days...sometimes two. If I have time, I like to go to Starbucks the morning of game days to treat myself.
Why did you choose your position?
I got into pitching because of my dad. He coached my rec league team when I was 8 and he didn't have anyone who could pitch on the team. My dad is super-competitive and wanted to win so he took me to pitching lessons so I could pitch for the team. I ended up really enjoying it and stuck with it ever since.
Why do you like your position?
I love pitching because of how complicated it is but also how much control it gives you. When I'm in the circle, I truly feel like I'm in my own little bubble and I feel like I can control the batter's success or failure. I loved learning all of the different spins and footwork of all the different pitches. In high school, pitchers also got a pinch-runner if they got on base, which was always a huge advantage for someone like me who hates running. Pitching is so rewarding because it is very hard and takes a lot of practice but the feeling when you strike someone out on a nasty curveball or a dirty change-up makes it all worth it.
What are your strengths as an athlete?
I feel like my biggest strength as an athlete is my ability to perform well under pressure. I am naturally a very anxious person but when I step into the circle nothing fazes me. I feel the same pitching if we are up by 10 runs or if we have 2 outs with bases loaded in the bottom of the seventh.
If you could have a super power, what would it be?
If I could have a super power, it would obviously be to be able to talk to animals. I feel like they would have so much to say and it would be an awesome power to have in my career field.
What is your favorite place to eat in Delaware, and what is your go-to dish there?
The shrimp tacos from Old Dog Alehouse are amazingggggggg. With the mac and cheese too, oh my goodness, it's so good!!
Which reality show would you like to star in and why?
I would probably say the show Big Brother, although I would probably be horrible at it because I am not a social person. I love the show and have watched it for years so even getting to be on it for a couple weeks would be awesome.
by Michaela Alfano '25
