Danielle Richard pinch hits against Tennessee during the College World Series in Oklahoma City. | Jeri Gulsby: UA Student Athletic Photographer

What did it feel like being a member of the Crimson Tide team that made history recently when it became the first SEC women’s softball team to win a NCAA title?

“It was exciting and very emotional.” said freshman infielder Danielle Richard of Priceville. “We all rushed out of the dugout when the game was over exchanging high fives and hugs and congratulating each other. It was an emotional high that I hadn’t experienced before.

“But perhaps the best part came after all of the photos, awards and media interviews when we left the field to seek out our families, friends and fans and thank them for their strong support.

“When our plane arrived back in Tuscaloosa the next day it was doused with water from fire hoses after it came to a stop, and several hundred fans were there to offer congratulations and welcome us back home.

“I’m not sure what we did has fully sunk in,” she added. “I think about it every day. I know it will always be special to me because it’s a first for the University of Alabama and a first for the SEC.”

Richard, the daughter of Harold and Michelle Richard, saw action in 41 games for the Tide, starting 10 games. She had 11 hits in 43 at bats with 15 runs scored, two home runs and five RBIs. She was also a perfect 9-for-9 on stolen base opportunities and had a .906 fielding percentage, turning one double play.