For Bridget Pluta and her softball team at the University of Illinois, it has been a year of firsts. As a freshman, she was to start as the first baseman for the Illini -- the team's first season of Big Ten play. And unfortunately, Pluta has the distinction of being the first player on her team to red-shirt.

"It has been hard not being able to play my first year. There really isn't much for me to do, which has helped me to look to the future instead of dwelling on not being able to play," she said. "It's hard to go to all the games and just sit on the bench and watch."

Pluta injured her knee while doing a routine "run-down" drill, a drill she has executed many times in the past.

"I tagged a girl and went to throw the ball in the opposite direction and my knee just popped. It happened so quickly I really didn't think much of it; definitely didn't think it would have changed my plans for the season. It caused me to be out for the rest of the year," the South Bend, Ind., resident said.

Dealing with the injury makes Pluta want to work even harder now to get back on the field for the next season. But, she couldn't be more proud of how well the team is doing. Pluta is happy she was given the chance to be a part of the program and work with the players and coaching staff, in spite of her injury. "I, being the only Hoosier, have found a family here at Illinois." Her injury remains her biggest challenge this year.

When Pluta first found out about starting for Illinois, she was both surprised and excited.

"It is an honor to help build a program from the ground up and being given the chance to start just topped it off," she said. "As a freshman starting on a Big Ten softball program, it was my goal and dream and, I was happy I accomplished it."

A basketball standout in high school as well, Pluta chose softball over basketball because of her love for the outdoors. She also says that her family has had the biggest influence on her softball career and supports all her endeavors. "Softball has always been my greatest love and my family has spent a great deal of time and effort helping me." Her family helped her practice and followed her the last few years while she played on travel teams. "They are my biggest fans."

Pluta wants to major in physical therapy and plans to pursue a career in the medical field with children.

Despite her injury, Pluta still maintains a positive attitude. To young girls pursuing sports, Pluta says, "Work hard and always do your best. Set high goals and strive to accomplish them. The result, in the end, will show desire and dedication."