Baylee Cook Johnson played softball for the Bruins from 2015-2019. During her time as a Bruin, she became of the program's top offensive players. She ranks in the top-seven in program history in six different career statistical categories including holding the school record for hits (197) and runs (132). The Shelbyville, Tennessee native also ranks first in Division I era for single season batting average (.402), hits (70), and runs scored (45). She also helped the program to 114 victories, the most wins of any four-year stretch in the Division I era.
Baylee recently spoke with BelmontBruins.com about her experience at Belmont and her current role as a nurse and wife in southern Middle Tennessee.
Why did you choose Belmont?
The moment I stepped onto Belmont's campus, it felt like home. I grew up in a close knit family and when searching for a college, I wanted a school and athletic program that made me feel like family. I knew from day one that Belmont was just that.
What is your fondest athletic memory at Belmont?
One of my fondest athletic memories at Belmont was making it to the OVC tournament for the first time in school history. In that same year, teammate Lexi Rouse hit six home-runs in six consecutive at bats to now hold the NCAA record. To be a part of this record breaking year will be something I cherish forever.
Who had the biggest influence on you during your athletic career at Belmont and how?
I think my teammates had the biggest influence on me during my athletic career. I spent nearly every day for four years with them. We went through everything together. The good, the bad, and the ugly were spent with these girls. At the end of every day, I knew I could count on them for anything at any time. My teammates were and still are some of my very best friends. Without them, I would not be the teammate and wife I am today.
What is the most valuable thing you gained or learned from your time at Belmont?
I learned so many things and grew so much during my time at Belmont. However, the most valuable thing I gained was my relationship with the Lord. I was fortunate enough to be able to travel and do mission work while playing softball at Belmont. On this trip, I declared my faith in the Lord and took the step of baptism. This was the best decision I have ever made and I am so grateful for Belmont for leading me to this opportunity of a lifetime.
What advice would you give to current members of the softball team?
Don't blink. These are the best four years of your life. I promise no one remembers if you went 4-4 at the plate or made an error in the field. There is life after softball and those statistics do not reflect who you are. So have fun everyday because it all eventually ends one day.
Who was your favorite professor and why?
Tom Halliquist was my favorite professor. He taught speech, everyone's least favorite class. I'm not sure how, but he made giving public speeches fun and so easy! He made it known that he cared about each student, so therefore it made you feel comfortable to stand in-front of a group of people and talk. I overcame my fear of public speaking thanks to him!
Where do you live now?
I now live in Fayetteville, Tennessee. This is about an hour and half south of Nashville.
What is your occupation?
I am a Family Nurse Practitioner for Huntsville Hospital- Fayetteville Medical Associates. I provide primary care to people of all ages. In addition, I am a newborn and pediatric hospitalist at our local hospital.
Tell us about your family.
I met my husband Blake after my time at Belmont and moved to Fayetteville, TN. Blake and I got married in October of 2022 in my hometown of Shelbyville, TN. We now live on a small family farm where we have two horses. We enjoy traveling, riding horses, and attempting to get good at golf. We do not have any children yet but have two dogs who we adore dearly.
