Kendra Lewis Felt Oklahoma State's Winning Culture Right Away

"I like to win, and winning is fun."

That mentality made Oklahoma State feel like home for new Cowgirls transfer Kendra Lewis.

After two successful seasons at Wisconsin, where she earned All-Big Ten honors as both a freshman and sophomore while hitting over .400 in year one and above .300 in year two, Lewis is ready to begin a new chapter in Stillwater.

Lewis and I go back to my days covering her at Rockridge High School, where she dominated in the circle and helped the Rockets win three state championships. She joined me on Couzin's Conversations to discuss her move to Oklahoma State and what ultimately sold her on Kenny Gajewski's program.

"I like to win, and winning is fun," Lewis said. "I felt a complete connection there."

Lewis said another major factor was the freedom to continue showcasing all aspects of her game.

"I'm encouraged to do everything there," Lewis said. "Hit, pitch, play a little bit, so I'm very excited."

Winning has always been part of Lewis' story. Looking back at her days at Rockridge, she realizes just how unique those championship experiences were.

"Normal people don't get to go to State every single year, let alone win State almost every single year," Lewis said.

Those expectations don't change at Oklahoma State.

Lewis said she and head coach Kenny Gajewski have already talked about the ultimate goal.

"Me and Coach G talked about the goal being Oklahoma City," Lewis said. "We're going to grind it out."

She believes the Cowgirls have the talent and competitive spirit to continue what has become the standard in Stillwater.

"We're all pushing each other to get to the same end goal," Lewis said.

Lewis has already crossed paths with former Oklahoma State ace Ruby Meylan and quickly understood why she became one of the faces of the program.

"I want to be around people like her," Lewis said. "She knows how to win. She knows how to carry herself."

And when asked how she would describe herself to Oklahoma State fans, Lewis didn't hesitate.

"I'm a dog," she said. "I like to compete. I'm gritty. But I'm also a pretty fun person. When I get on the field, I'm a dog."

A competitor on the field and a personality off it, Kendra Lewis is hoping the next chapter of her softball journey brings something familiar.

More winning.

Fans can watch the full interview on the latest episode of Couzin's Conversations in the link at the top of this article.