Division III Week Profile: Tori Haag
This week marks the fourth annual NCAA Division III Week, and SimpsonAthletics.com is here to highlight three of Simpson's finest student-athletes. These individuals not only excel on the field, but in the classroom, on campus and in the community. Some have multiple majors. Some play multiple sports. Whatever their niche, these student-athletes represent the best of what Division III has to offer.
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Today, we share the story of swimmer and softball player, Tori Haag.
A junior from Waukee, Iowa, Haag has taken advantage of the opportunity to excel in multiple sports. She began her Simpson career as a softball player, but decided to add swimming to her resume as a junior. Competing in the pool for the first time since high school, Haag immediately made an impact, establishing herself as one of the top swimmers on the team. At the season-ending Liberal Arts Championships, she broke a 13-year old school record in the 200 IM. On the diamond, she is a three-year starter and is the top hitter for the 22nd-ranked Storm. Her 10 long balls this season rank third in Division III.
Bio Blast
- Name - Tori Haag
- Major/Minor - Global Business major with minors in German and computer information systems
- Activities - Softball, intramurals, German Club
- Awards/Honors - NFCA All-Midwest Region 2nd Team (2014), All-Iowa Conference First Team (2014), All-Iowa Conference Academic (2014), Dean's List (5 times)
- Future Plans - Attend law school
Why did you choose Division III and Simpson in particular?
I played softball and swam through high school, and I knew I wanted to continue playing softball at the collegiate level. I knew a Division III school would provide the most opportunities to me as an athlete and a student. From there, I chose Simpson because of its location and because its softball team has a great tradition.
What opportunities have you had as a Division III student-athlete that have made your experience special?
During my sophomore year, I started to consider going out for Simpson's swim team because of how much I missed the sport. By my junior year, I decided to take the plunge, so to speak, and go out for the team, which was such a great experience. I would not have had that chance at a bigger school or even at most Division III schools because of the conflicting schedules.
What is your favorite memory as a Division III student-athlete?
My favorite memory so far has been when I had a cut and stitches above my eye from being hit with a ball at practice [in 2014]. The next day we had our first conference game against Wartburg. I was unable to assume my usual catching position because of the contact of the helmet on my cut, so I played in the outfield. I then had one of the best hitting performances of my life, and that memory still stands as one of my proudest moments on the field at Simpson.
In your own mind, what does it mean to be a Division III student-athlete?
Being a Division III student-athlete means that you are an extremely dedicated student who also wants to prove something in athletics. Because playing a sport at this level will be a challenge, you have to really love it.
How has Simpson helped you succeed in the classroom?
Simpson has allowed me to be the best athlete possible without it taking over my life. I have been able to do every activity I have wanted, and every intramural sport, all while playing two sports and being a good student.
