Atlanta in 1996, Sydney in 2000, Athens in 2004; is there any way to say which Olympic victory was the sweetest?
Each one is so different. Atlanta was special because it was the first time medals were awarded in women’s softball. Sydney was emotional because in the first game I threw the first ever solo nohitter in the Olympics, but then in the middle of the tournament we lost three straight games and were on the brink of elimination before we came back and won it all. Athens was especially memorable because it was such a dominant performance.

What is the best part about being an Olympian?
The pride you have for your country. A lot of people here lose sight of how good we have it in America. Listening to our national anthem has never been the same for me since the first time I heard it standing on the podium with a gold medal around my neck and “U.S.A.” on my chest.

What did you miss the most while you were away?
My own bed. I was over there for a month, so I was ready to get home. I was so excited to be landing at night so I could see the lights of The Strip.