We're bringing back our Friday Focus and kicking it off with the No. 14 player on our Hot 100 list for 2016. 

Jaimie Hoover is the classic power-hitting catcher/corner infielder, batting .426 for her high school career and breaking her high school's RBI and home run records with 106 and 17, respectively. 

The Georgia Elite-Hoover standout is one of the top players in the Class of 2016 and just recently signed with two-time defending NCAA champion the University of Florida.

Speaking of the Gators, we are proud to announce that our first premium documentary series will feature Florida and their rise to SEC and national dominance. Mark your calendars — the trailer drops November 25!

Now back to future Gator Jaimie Hoover!

Signing Day: big production or quiet?
I had a little bit of both. First and for most I had a small celebration with my family. I really wanted to thank them for their support, time and gratitude.  We are planning several bigger productions later to celebrate the exciting moments with my friends.

Unlike most states in the country which play in the spring, your high school career wrapped up this fall. What was the highlight of your senior campaign and of your varsity career overall?
I have to say the highlight of my softball senior year was most definitely growing with the select group of teammates I had. After last season we lost a total of eight seniors, and received a new head coach. No one thought we would get as far as we did. Seeing how dedicated and tough our team came through felt unexplainable. We finished in the sweet 16 in a region that contained the eventual state champions, so it was a rewarding year for me. My leadership skills developed quite a bit.

Looking back on your great club and high school careers, what’s the one accomplishment you’re most proud of?
I am most proud of growing not only as a softball player but as a person. I was able to show a lot more maturity on the field and I believe it helped me accomplish what I was able to accomplish. If I could pick a second accomplishment, breaking my school’s home run record and being at the top of the county records for my career was pretty cool too.

What do you do now until travel ball starts towards Nationals?
I am currently focusing on my schoolwork and training until travel starts towards Nationals.

Your father has been your club coach.. What have been the pluses and minuses?
Honestly, having my father as my travel coach has not been problematic. On the field he is Coach, and off the field he is Dad. Just like any other player, I respect my coach and treat my coach like a coach—as he deserves to be. My teammates often remind me how they forget Coach Australia is really my father. I think that's the way it should be.

You have the skills to play behind the plate or in the infield — which position and what position(s) have the Florida coaches talked to you about playing?
Coach Tim Walton has talked to me about both catching and infield positions, I'm willing to do whatever he asks of me, and whatever I can do to help the wonderful program. One of the reasons why Florida felt like such a natural fit for me was because of how the coaching staff seeks to bring out the best in each player. I feel like I can be successful in that way.

It has to be exciting having committed to your future program and watching them win back-to-back National Championships. What has that been like? 
It's been a true blessing to know that I am going to be a part of such a high performing school. I am grateful for having such a huge opportunity to help the Gators continue having future success. It is also flattering to know that I have the chance to be looked up to, just like the current players at UF now.

Let’s talk about you as a player on the field: what would you say are your top three strengths?
I would have to say my top three strengths are hustling, athleticism, and offensive skills.

And what’s an area you’ll want to improve before you hit Gainesville next year?
I definitely would want to improve my consistency on both defense and offense before I go to Gainesville next year. I know the pitching in the SEC is phenomenal.  I’m working hard with my instructors to prepare mentally for the ups and downs that are going to come. I want to come in with the right mindset.