Get to Know Val Pero
February 04, 2020 | Softball
Meet the final newcomer to the 2020 roster, Val Pero. Val is a freshman catcher that broke her high school's four-year record for home runs in a single season. Val was born in Guadalajara, Mexico before growing up in San Diego, Calif.
What is your favorite thing about Oregon State?
My favorite thing about OSU has to be my teammates and my coaches. It seems like the average answer but I have a new sense of motivation and belonging in a completely new atmosphere which has been amazing!
How would you describe what it's like playing for Coach Berg and her staff?
Playing for our coaching staff has been really eye opening. Having coaches that are willing to have us talk things out on and off the field is refreshing. We're treated with full respect and like grown women, which is the idea we have for our program. Coach Berg is endlessly knowledgeable about the game. It's great!
At what age did you know you wanted to play softball in college? What made you realize that?
Ever since my first year of travel ball, I knew I wanted to play college ball. I was 11 and immediately was held to a higher standard and told what I could potentially do with my athletic ability. It was a no brainer from the beginning!
What is your major and what do you enjoy about it?
I came in as a Political Science major with the intent of using it to benefit me in law school. With that being said, I sparked a new interest in pharmaceutical and medical device sales. Because of my change of interest, I changed to Exploratory Studies to give myself a bit more room to explore. My current options are Communications with a minor in Business Administration so I can still pursue some form of law, or Kinesiology with a minor in Business Administration for Pharmaceutical Sales.
Who has had the biggest influence on your softball career?
I have many role models in life but my parents genuinely have been what keeps me striving to do better. I owe it all to them. Every success I will gain in my life will be not only because of them but for them.
What athlete did you idolize growing up?
An athlete I idolized growing up was Manny Machado.
What actress would you have play you in a movie about your life?
Sofia Vergera
What is your favorite zoo animal?
Lion
If you could have dinner with any person, dead or alive, who would it be and why?
If I could have dinner with anyone it would be Mark Campbell. He was a big part of my softball career. I regret not thanking him before his passing. I would sit at dinner and thank him for everything he did for me.
If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be?
Spain
What is your favorite homemade meal?
My favorite homemade meal is Israeli Cous Cous (made by my mom) and a nice steak (made by my dad). They are the best cooks in the world!
Oregon State opens the 2020 season this weekend in Las Vegas, Nev. when the Beavers face Southern Utah, UNLV and CSUN over the course of five games.
For more information on the Oregon State softball team, visit OSUBeavers.com or follow the team @BeaverSoftball on Twitter and Instagram.
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