Alabama Picked To Win SEC West In Softball

Alabama was picked to defend its Southeastern Conference West Division championship in a poll of the league’s coaches released on Tuesday by the conference office.

Florida, tabbed to win the East, earned the most first place votes and was predicted to win the conference title.

“We are all looking forward to another exciting season of SEC softball,” said Alabama coach Patrick Murphy. “Last year saw the back-and-forth battle between Florida and us from start to finish. This year looks to be just as competitive from top to bottom. With three of your 11 coaches already in the NFCA Hall of Fame, you know there is great coaching in this young league. It’s going to be fun to watch what happens in year 13 of SEC softball.” … Continue Reading

OU Tops Big 12 Coaches' Poll

NORMAN, Okla. – The University of Oklahoma softball team received nine of 10 first-place votes and tallied 81 points to receive top billing in the 2009 Big 12 coaches’ preseason poll, as announced today by the league office. The selection the first time the Sooners were chosen a unanimous selection to win the league title since 2000, when OU won its first National Championship.

“I appreciate and respect the opinions of the coaches in the Big 12 and because of that, it makes it very meaningful to me that they view our team in this manner,” said OU head coach Patty Gasso. “One of our goals is to finish at the top. That’s a tough challenge because our conference is competitive and it will take a lot of hard work to get there.” … Continue Reading

Angela Tincher honored by NCAA

BY NATHAN WARTERS
MEDIA GENERAL NEWS SERVICE

Former Virginia Tech softball pitcher Angela Tincher is one of eight recipients of the NCAA Today’s Top VIII Awards. The award recognizes athletes for their success in athletics, academics and in the community after they’ve completed their eligibility.

The honorees will be recognized at the NCAA Honors and Delagates Celebration on Jan. 15 at the NCAA Convention in Washington D.C. … Continue Reading

Ex-Cyclone Coach Crowe Awarded $287,000

A Polk County jury awarded former Iowa State softball coach Ruth Crowe $287,000 in damages late Friday as part of a potentially wide-ranging verdict against Cyclone athletic officials for wrongfully firing Crowe in 2005.

“This issue wasn’t about Ruth Crowe or about what kind of award she might get,” Crowe said Saturday about the verdict. “What was most important was to bring to light the basic issue of inequality that athletes and coaches in women’s sports at Iowa State had to face in the past. I truly hope that the current administration will make the kinds of improvements that need to be made.”

Iowa State officials declined comment, but Bob Brammer, spokesman for the Iowa Attorney General’s office, said: “We will consider all of our options, including appeal.”

A five-woman, two-man jury delivered the verdict after about two hours of deliberation, following a five-day trial in which Crowe’s lawyers painted their client’s dismissal as retaliation for her complaining to faculty members and athletic department officials about inequitable compensation for most Cyclone coaches in women’s sports, as well as a lack of comparable money for recruiting female athletes compared to male athletes.

Attorneys for Iowa State argued that Crowe’s dismissal had nothing to do with her complaints, but rather was prompted by a poor win-loss record (166-244 in nine seasons), failure to attend Cyclone fundraising outings, complaints from a group of athletes about her handling of the team, and failures to act in a professional manner. During her tenure, Iowa State’s softball teams failed to place higher than seventh in the Big 12 Conference.

Former athletic director Bruce Van De Velde dismissed Crowe – who had a controversial tenure that included objecting to a pregame invocation at Baylor and describing Texas A&M fans as “dumb farmers” after a raucous game in College Station – with one year remaining on her contract.

During the trial, Crowe said she wasn’t aware until just before her termination that her job was in jeopardy. She also said she hadn’t been aware of complaints from former players and their parents until after she filed her lawsuit.

Van De Velde did not testify, but Callie Sanders, senior associate athletic director, testified that she made the decision to fire Crowe.

Sanders said she had become concerned about complaints about Crowe as well as her team’s lack of success.

The jury’s verdict awarded Crowe $90,000 in back pay, $160,000 for past emotional distress and $37,000 for future distress from her improper firing. But that might not be the only relief sought in the case, according to Tom Newkirk, Crowe’s lawyer.

Newkirk said the verdict clears the way for Polk County Judge Scott Rosenberg to reinstate Crowe as softball coach or take other steps to provide equitable relief under Title IX. Those steps could include Rosenberg ordering a complete audit of Iowa State’s athletic compliance with Title IX and demanding improvements to the school’s softball facilities.

Newkirk said that a hearing on what kind of relief should be provided is likely to be held next month after motions are filed by both sides.

Elaine Hieber, former senior women’s athletic administrator at Iowa State, described the verdict as “a very fast one and at this point you have to admire Ruth Crowe for standing up in a very difficult time.”

“This is a victory not only for Iowa State female athletes, but for student-athletes around the country,” Hieber said.

Former Cyclone Softball Coach Rowe Testifies In Termination Case

Ruth Crowe’s controversial ending to her nine-year tenure as Iowa State’s softball coach – which included objecting to a pregame prayer at Baylor and branding Texas A&M fans “dumb farmers” – is on trial.

She is now fighting for back pay and damages for wrongful dismissal.

Crowe testified Wednesday that her firing on June 1, 2005, came without warning from former athletic director Bruce Van De Velde, who asked her to resign, then terminated her with one year left on her contract.

“I believe it lacked integrity and it lacked common decency,” Crowe said at a trial before Polk County Judge Scott Rosenberg and a five-woman, two-man jury. “I also thought it lacked the loyalty that someone who had coached for nine years at Iowa State deserved.”

Crowe is seeking back pay of about $125,000 and an undisclosed amount in compensatory damages. If Crowe wins, she could also be reinstated to her job.

But lawyers representing Iowa State made it clear in cross-examination they intend to paint the dismissal as justified based on Crowe’s 166-244 record and complaints from former players that she was unable to control her emotions, cursed frequently and was verbally abusive.

Other members of Crowe-coached teams, including Ashley Kileen Bails and Solon High School star and two-time Canadian Olympian Erin Woods White, disputed that contention.

Also expected to testify this week are Callie Sanders, Iowa State’s senior women’s athletic administrator; former Iowa State assistant athletic director Elaine Hieber; and possibly Jamie Pollard, the school’s current athletic director.

Van De Velde, whose deposition was taken and is expected to be read into the record, is not expected to testify.

The trial is also putting Iowa State’s commitment to gender equity under the federal Title IX law under a microscope.

Crowe claims in her lawsuit that Van De Velde dismissed her not because of problems within the program, but because she raised questions about the school’s lack of commitment to Title IX, particularly concerning what she characterized as substantially lower salaries for coaches of women’s teams and a 3-to-1 difference in money spent on recruiting male athletes.

Crowe said she met in 2004 with Paula Morrow, Iowa State’s faculty athletic representative, as well as members of the influential University Committee on Women raising concerns that the athletic department had failed to maintain comparable treatment of women’s coaches in salaries.

“After I had seen some of the numbers about the inequality, I just said that enough was enough,” Crowe said. “This was an issue about student welfare and I had become increasingly concerned.”

Morrow, a business professor, and Ann Thompson, a professor and then-president of the women’s committee, each acknowledged in testimony that they had met with Crowe about her concerns.

Morrow said she knew nothing of Van De Velde’s decision to fire Crowe until after it took place and that she had not heard any player complaints about Crowe before her dismissal.

Crowe’s lawyers also introduced e-mails from Sanders to Crowe and Van De Velde in which Sanders expressed concern about a growing inequality in salaries, particularly among assistant coaches.

Other e-mails introduced into evidence indicated that Van De Velde had initiated a review of Crowe’s program a month before her dismissal but failed to inform her that her job might be in jeopardy.

“I didn’t know such an evaluation was going on,” Crowe said.

Crowe acknowledged that she had been reprimanded by the school and the Big 12 for her behavior in a game at Texas A&M. Iowa State officials received complaints from fans claiming Crowe called them “dumb farmers.”

Crowe said she didn’t remember saying that directly to fans, but “I may have muttered it under my breath.”

Sun Devils Enjoy Day Of Celebration At The White House

TEMPE, Ariz. – The Arizona State University softball and track & field teams traveled to the nation’s capital Wednesday and met with President George W. Bush to celebrate the national championships each team won during the past academic year. Eleven teams in all were on hand for the celebration, including five representing the state of Arizona.

The men’s and women’s indoor track and field national champions, who were celebrating the women’s third title in two years (indoor twice and outdoor once) and the men’s first indoor crown, joined the first-time champion softball squad by taking a tour of the White House, including much of the East Wing. After seeing many historic artifacts on the tour, the teams readied themselves for their meeting with the Commander in Chief.

The softball team met the President first and presented him with a jersey adorned with his name and the number one on the back. The President then met with other teams before revisiting with the track and field team. After talking and joking with the team, he accepted a gift of a Sun Devil track suit (black and gold) before posing for two pictures; the second showing the President with the pitchfork.

From there, both squads were announced to the crowd on the South Lawn as the Marine Corps Band played the fight song. Selected team captains met with the President and then joined him on stage where he addressed the crowd and posed for pictures with the captains. With the ceremony concluded, both teams headed out to Pennsylvania Avenue for pictures in front of the White House where preparations are underway for the January inauguration of President-Elect Obama.

After a little down time, the Sun Devils made the trip to Arlington, Va., and Crystal City Sports Pub where the ASU Alumni Association National Capital Chapter welcomed the teams for a reception. The Chapter met with the coaches and athletes before Vice President for University Athletics Lisa Love, Head Coach Greg Kraft (track & field) and Head Coach Clint Myers (softball) each addressed the crowd.

EKU Softball Raises Over $3,000 For Breast Cancer Research

RICHMOND, Ky. – Eastern Kentucky’s softball Breast Cancer Fall Tournament, held last weekend, was a huge success on the field and off. The Colonels went 4-0, but more importantly, more than $3,000 was raised for breast cancer research.

The event was a total team effort. The EKU softball team, Eastern Kentucky University campus recreation, umpires and area fans pulled together for a common cause.

“I would like to send a special thanks to Mark Howard and the rest of the campus recreation department for volunteering to help us run the tournament,” said EKU Head Coach Jane Worthington. “This was one of the smoothest running tournaments we have had. They are also continuing to sell t-shirts in the recreation center and the proceeds will be added to our total donation.”

Each year the Eastern Kentucky University softball team participates in the Annual Breast Cancer Fall Tournament. For the first time since 2006, the Colonels hosted the tournament in Richmond. The 8th annual event ran for two days.

The Colonels sold t-shirts at the field, and in the rec center. To help the cause, umpires volunteered their time.

“We are hoping to team up with campus recreation again next year to make this an even bigger event,” Worthington said. “Our softball program has been affected by breast cancer in the past, and will probably be so in the future; therefore, fundraising for this cause is even more satisfying.”

On the field, the Colonels posted four shutout victories, beating Centre College (16-0), Brescia University (7-0), Lindsey Wilson College (5-0) and Georgetown College (7-0). Four pitchers each earned a win, combining for 27 strikeouts in 26 innings. Sophomore Ashley Dollins led the offensive attack with three doubles and six runs batted in. Junior Shyenne Hussey was the only player in the entire tournament to hit a home run.

Texas A & M Softball Opens Fall Season

COLLEGE STATION, Texas – The Texas A&M softball team opens its fall season on Tuesday with a doubleheader against Temple Junior College at the Aggie Softball Complex. The first pitch is set for 5 p.m. Admission is free of charge.

Tuesday marks the first of an eight-game fall slate. A&M softball had two intrasquad scrimmages already and continues play this weekend in Spring Texas at the Spring Klein College Classic.

“Our players have worked really hard for the past month and it’s going to feel really good to get out there and play a game,” said head coach Jo Evans. “We’re a totally different team from last year and it will give us a chance to see our newcomers and how the team gels. These games are a good gauge to know what we need to work on to be ready for our spring season.”

The Aggies return 10 letterwinners from a national runner-up squad in 2008. The Aggies’ trip to the Women’s College World series was A&M’s second straight and seventh all-time. In addition, A&M earned its second Big 12 regular season title and first ever Big 12 Championship tournament title.

New faces on this year’s roster are freshmen Kelsea Orsak (Pearland, Texas), Eden Morris (Cohutta, Ga.), Taryn Broussard (Lake Jackson, Texas), Rebecca Arbino (Clovis, Calif.) and senior transfer Savana Lloyd (Kirkland, Wash.).

Big 12 Coach of the Year, Jo Evans, and her staff, (Associate Head Coaches Joy Jackson and Mary Jo Firnbach) which was voted the 2008 National Fastpitch Coaches Association Midwest Region Coaching Staff of the Year, remain at the helm of one of the top programs in the nation.

A&M begins its regular season at home on Feb. 6 hosting the Aggie Classic.

Tincher Honored For POY Award At Va Tech Football Game

BLACKSBURG – The Virginia Tech Athletics Department retired the number of former Hokie softball player Angela Tincher in a ceremony on September 13 on Worsham Field before the football game against Georgia Tech, making her just the third female athlete in school history to have the honor bestowed upon her.

Click HERE to read the complete story on the Virginia Tech Website. ASA President Elect Andy Dooley of Bedford, Va. presented the trophy to Tincher during pre-game ceremonies.
In June, Tincher was honored by the Amateur Softball Association as the 2008 National Collegiate Player of the Year.

The USA Softball National Collegiate Player of the Year Award, in its seventh year, is designed to recognize outstanding athletic achievement by NCAA Division I collegiate softball players across the country.

The 2008 ACC Pitcher of the Year, Tincher has put her mark in the NCAA record books this season. At No. 3 for most NCAA career strikeouts (2,121), the senior hurler is currently leading the nation in ERA at 0.62 behind former Player of the Year’s Monica Abbott and Cat Osterman. With 651 strikeouts this season in 329.0 innings pitched, she also leads the nation with 14.0 strikeouts per seven innings.

With a 38-8 record, Tincher has led the Hokies to its first-ever Women’s College World Series appearance. She has 37 double-digit strikeout performances this season and four no-hitters. She picked up her 100th career win at NC State on March 22 and became the ACC’s all-time leader in victories on April 16. On March 26, 2008, she made softball history with a no-hit 1-0 shutout against the USA Softball Women’s National team. Tincher has not only excelled on the field but off as she had made the Dean’s List every semester of College. She recently graduated Summa Cum Laude with a degree in finance, insurance and business law with a 3.84 GPA.

The three finalists for the 2008 USA Softball Collegiate Player of the Year Awardincluding Tincher wereUniversity of Tennessee senior Tonya Callahanand Texas A&M Senior Megan Gibson.
A replica of the award will be placed in a permanent display in the ASA National Softball Hall of Fame in Oklahoma City, along with photos of the winner. An additional replica of the award will be presented to the player’s academic institution at a designated event in the fall.

Abbott won the 2007 award days before she led the Tennessee Lady Vols to its first-ever WCWS best-of-three Championship series.Osterman of the University of Texas became the first three-time winner of the USA Softball National Collegiate Player of the Year Award in 2006 after leading her Longhorns to the Big 12 regular season title and a berth into the NCAA Women’s College World Series. Past winners of the award include Stacey Nuveman (UCLA-2002), Osterman (Texas-2003, 2005, 2006) and Jessica Van der Linden (Florida State-2004).

Texas: Upgrades underway at Softball's McCombs Field

AUSTIN, Texas– The home of The University of Texas Softball team is in the process of undergoing several upgrades that will put Red and Charline McCombs Field among the best facilities in the country. Texas added seatbacks to every seat in the stadium following last season and will have a new LCD scoreboard in place for the 2009 season. Additionally the Longhorns are in the planning stages of adding a covered softball training area to McCombs Field.

“The upgrades at McCombs Field will keep us on par with the premier facilities in the country,” head coach Connie Clark said. “The seating will be more comfortable for the fans and the new scoreboard will be a boost to our game day atmosphere.”

Texas will replace its current scoreboard with a Daktronics LCD video display scoreboard that will have full video capabilities. The new scoreboard will be the same size as the existing scoreboard at McCombs Field, but it will offer features such as video and instant replay.

“Our previous scoreboard was out of date and we are excited about replacing it with a state of the art video board that will really add to the fan experience at McCombs Field,” Associate Athletics Director for Sport Programs Lynn Wheeler said. “McCombs Field was one of the very top softball facilities in the country when we opened its doors in 1998. All of these changes to the facility will enable us to remain one of the top programs in the country.”

UT is also in the process of planning a covered softball training facility that will be situated in the empty lot in the northwest corner of the stadium. The facility will be accessible through the Longhorns’ current bullpen and will feature three indoor batting cages and space for drill stations. Texas’ proposed training facility will allow the Longhorns to practice indoors during inclement weather and will have multi-purpose functionality.

“The planning of the training facility for the student-athletes is significant for player development and is the most exciting piece of the project,” Clark noted. “The hitting area will likely feature batting cages, hitting stations, video capabilities and auto-feed machines. We are blessed to have the support at Texas to produce a facility like McCombs Field. It has amazing amenities which allow us to attract and train the top athletes in the country.”

U.S. Olympian Lauren Lappin Joins 'Cats As Volunteer Coach

EVANSTON, Ill. — Fresh off her medal-winning performance with the U.S. Olympic Team in Beijing, Lauren Lappinwill join Northwestern as its volunteer coach for the 2009 season, head coach Kate Drohan announced today.

“I’m very excited to be here at Northwestern,” Lappin said. “I’m eager to contribute in any way I can to the tremendous softball program NU has built. It will be fun to see all of the talent and great personalities we have here, and I’m looking forward to being a part of Northwestern’s athletic program.”

Lappin knocked in a pair of runs for Team USA at the 2008 Olympic Games, her second stint with the team after being an alternate for the 2004 squad. She also was a member of the 2007 Pan American Gold-winning and World Cup champion teams for USA Softball.

“We are thrilled to have Lauren join the Northwestern family,” Drohan said. “Lauren will enhance every aspect of our program with her great knowledge and the enthusiasm she has for the game. The team can’t wait to get started.”

A standout at Stanford from 2003-06, Lappin was a four-time All-Pac-10 selection and a two-time conference Defensive Player of the Year after playing both catcher and shortstop for the Cardinal. She won two NFCA All-America accolades and batted .337 for her collegiate career. In 2004, Lappin was a member of the Women’s College World Series All-Tournament team.

Professionally, Lappin is in her second season as a member of the PFX Tour.

Missouri Softball Coach Receives Contract Extension

Columbia, Mo. -Missouri Director of Athletics Mike Alden announced today that softball Head Coach Ehren Earleywine has been signed to a contract extension that will have him leading the Tigers through the 2013 campaign.

“We are so pleased with the progress of our softball program under the direction of Coach Earleywine,” Alden said. “He is positioning us for great success both immediately as well as in the future.”

In Earleywine’s two years at the helm, the Jefferson City, Mo., native has guided the squad to back-to-back NCAA Regional tournaments, claiming the program’s first NCAA Regional Title in 14 years in May of 2008. With the win, Earleywine’s squad advanced to Missouri’s first-ever NCAA Super Regional where the team squared off with Alabama.

“I am honored and excited about the contract extension,” Earleywine said. “I owe the administration many thanks for believing in me and giving me and my family the opportunity to be at home near family and friends. None of this would be possible without the success that we’ve had in the first two seasons. This is a direct result of a talented group of players who have worked extremely hard and have exceeded all expectations.”

Earleywine owns an 87-41 record in his two seasons with the Tigers and is 230-96 overall (six years), good for a .706 winning percentage.

“Coach Earleywine has done a fantastic job at Missouri in his first two seasons,” Associate Athletics Director for Operations Tim Hickman said. “Winning an NCAA Regional for the first time in 14 years this past year is an indication of the direction of our program. Recruits in Missouri and nationally are taking notice. We are excited about the future and are proud to have him in our dugout for a long time to come.”

Eight Tiger softball players have earned All-Big 12 honors during Earleywine’s time at Missouri, with Buford, Ga., native Rhea Taylor receiving Big 12 Freshman of the Year accolades in 2008. In addition five Missouri players were awarded All-Region honors in 2008, while Taylor became the program’s first All-American since 2003.

“There are a lot of coaching jobs across the country, but I can say without hesitation that Missouri is my dream job,” Earleywine said. “I hope that I will be able to retire here when my coaching career ends.In the meantime, I am confident that we can raise the level of the program to new heights and continue to give Missouri Softball fans something to be proud of.”

Red Raiders Sweep Weekend Scrimmages

LUBBOCK, Texas – Texas Tech softball finished its weekend scrimmages with two wins on Sunday at Rocky Johnson Field. The Red Raiders defeated Midland College in game one 7-6 before sliding by Lubbock Christian University 3-1. With today’s wins, the Red Raiders improved to 4-0 on the weekend to complete a sweep of the weekend set.

The Tech bats came alive in game one putting up seven runs on nine hits. Freshman Emily Bledsoe got things going with a triple in the second to bring home Senior Elizabeth Eimen to make the score 1-0. All things remained quiet until Midland College put up five runs in the fifth to take the lead 5-1. The Red Raiders rallied in the sixth off a triple by Eimen to score three runs to pull within one. Tech would take the lead on a single by Sophomore Tye Coats to score Eimen and freshman Ashley Hamada to up the score to 6-5. Midland would tie the game in the seventh at 6-6. The Red Raiders would take the game in the seventh on a sacrifice fly by Senior Alex Watkins to score Senior Megan Shupp to give the Raiders a 7-6 win. Ashly Jacobs pitched four innings striking out four before being relieved by Coats.
Lubbock Christian took the early lead in game two going up 1-0 in the second. Tech would respond in the second when Bledsoe doubled and scored courtesy of a single by Hamada. In the seventh the Raiders got on the board again when Eimen doubled to score freshmen Stephanie Drewry. Fellow freshman Skyler Peterson singled to bring home Eimen to make the score 3-1 and ensure the victory for the Red Raiders. Senior Alex Watkins pitched four innings and struck out three and was relieved by freshman Karli Merlich.

Fall games, which also include a tournament in the Houston area on Sept. 27 and 28, do not count as part of the NCAA schedule of events; therefore official stats were not kept. The complete schedule for 2009 has not yet been released but will be posted on www.texastech.com as soon as it is made available.

Catching Up With Coach Gardner As Fall Season Approaches

Indiana head softball coach Michelle Gardner, who is entering her first season at the helm of the Hoosier program, took some time out of a busy start to the year to provide some insight into what she is looking for during her inaugural campaign in Bloomington.

What have been some of your top priorities here since you were hired in June?
“First and foremost was to get out and see the recruited athletes and other kids that are committed to the program. And to try to learn as much as I can about the current players on the roster because I have never seen them play before. That, along with hiring a staff were my top priorities. First, I needed a hitting coach, which is why I hired Amanda Rivera right off the bat. Those were the first types of things that I needed to do to get started.”

Coming in as a new coach, having never seen these players play before, what are you going to do to try to get a handle on what they can do?
“I had an opportunity to see all of the incoming freshmen play but one. I had the chance to see Sara Olson play and I spoke with numerous coaches in the Big Ten and other schools that had played Indiana to try to get a feeling for what I have on the team. And that was critical, considering I very little knowledge about the current players in the program.”

What has the recruiting been like as the head coach at Indiana?“I think it is different in that my mindset has to change. I have been a West Coast dominant recruiting person and now I’m in the Midwest and have to broaden my horizons. Although I am from the Midwest, I have not recruited in the Midwest for a very long time. Not that there were not players in the Midwest that I would have loved to have at Nevada, but the players in California were easier to access. So that has been the biggest change for me, getting back here to rekindle some old ties and develop some new ones.”

What is the one thing you are looking forward to the most this fall season?
“What I’m looking forward to the most this fall is just getting the team out on the field to see what types of players I have and to put a finger on our capabilities and how I can build around those from the fall season to the spring season.”

Have you been able to do some of the same things here as you did at Nevada, from a coaching?
“I think throughout all of my coaching experiences, I have been able to pick up a number of different things. The one thing that I know about myself is that I have to work within the strengths of the student-athletes that I have. And I think that’s why this fall is so critical for us. I’m going to determine what kind of game I’m going to play this spring by how we react to different situations this fall.”

Have you been able to take advantage of being closer to your family?
“Absolutely. A five-hour drive in a car is completely different than two plane flights from Nevada to Michigan. Realistically, I could get in my car right now and be there in five hours. My sister and niece have both been down here to visit, my aunts have been down and I actually got to spend some time up there before I began working here officially. And the time difference is the biggest factor for me; we are not three hours behind anymore. It used to be that by the time I got home and got the kids settled for the night, it would be midnight or later and you are not calling people that late because the wouldn’t get up. And they wouldn’t call me in the morning before they go to work because it would be three or four in the morning out there. So the time change is enormous in that regard, with my family and my husband’s family being in the Eastern Time Zone.”

When you get some free time, what do like to do?
“I don’t have too many hobbies. My extra time is spent with my kids. As they are getting a little bit older now, we are getting a little more involved with some other things. But they are little enough right now that this is really quality time, because once we get in season, quality time gets harder and harder to come by. Coaching what I do and it’s a passion for me, but my family is also my passion so it is being able to balance that.”

Aggie Softball Volunteers with Habitat for Humanity

COLLEGE STATION, Texas – The Texas A&M softball team is back on campus and already involved in the community as it partnered with Bryan/College Station Habitat for Humanity’s Women Build project on Saturday.

The team and coaching staff volunteered with Habitat for Humanity to build a home for the Searcy family in Bryan, Texas. Glenda Searcy and her children, the future homeowners, were on site and worked with the Aggies. A&M softball raised the walls and trusses on the first day of the construction project.

“This was a great experience,” said head coach Jo Evans. “We wanted to get out and work as a team in an environment where we were giving back to a community that shows Texas A&M such great support. We couldn’t think of a better chance to give back than to work with Habitat for Humanity. We fully support Habitat’s mission of providing the opportunity of housing to everyone in our community and we really enjoyed being able to work with the Searcy family in building their future home.”

The Aggies helped with the Circle of Women build, which is an annual project community involvement and philanthropy for women in the BCS community. Local women pledged over $55,000 and will work on the construction site over 12 weeks to complete the Searcy home.

A&M softball is set to begin fall practices on Tuesday, Sept. 16. The Aggies ended their 2008 season with a school-best 57 wins, earning their second Big 12 regular season title and first ever Big 12 Championship tournament title en route to a second consecutive, seventh all-time Women’s College World Series appearance.

For more information about Aggie softball, please log on to AggieAthletics.com.

Lady Vol Olympians Scheduled To Be On Oprah

Five University of Tennessee Lady Vol 2008 Olympians were scheduled to be in Chicago, Ill., today to tape an upcoming segment for the “The Oprah Winfrey Show.”

UT gold medalist basketball players Tamika Catchings, Kara Lawson and Candace Parker along with swimming double silver medal winner Christine Magnuson and softball silver medalist Monica Abbott joined over 175 other medalists at Pritzker Pavilion in Chicago’s Millennium Park for a “Welcome Home Team USA” taping to open Oprah’s 23rd season premiere talk show which will air on Monday, Sept. 8. In Knoxville, “The Oprah Winfrey Show” is televised on WATE (channel 6) at 4:00 p.m.

“Other Olympians including Michael Phelps, Nastia Luikin, Shawn Johnson, Dara Torres, Kobe Bryant, Dwyane Wade, Lisa Leslie, Misty May-Treanor, Kerri Walsh, Jennie Finch and many more will be on hand to answer the questions on the minds of Americans: how does it feel to have achieved their Olympic dreams? What does it take to be the best in the world? What’s next for these world-class athletes? Then, Oprah will go behind the headlines for the incredible Olympic stories that you haven’t heard,” according to Harpo Productions’ Tuesday press release.

“The Oprah Winfrey Show” has remained the number one talk show for 22 consecutive seasons, winning every sweep since its debut in 1986. It is produced in Chicago by Harpo Productions, Inc. and syndicated to 212 domestic markets by King World and to 135 countries by CBS Paramount International Television.

Marist Names Ausanio Interim Head Softball Coach

POUGHKEEPSIE, N.Y. – Marist Director of Athletics Tim Murray announced the hiring of former New York Yankees pitcher Joe Ausanio as interim head softball coach for this season on Wednesday. Ausanio served as an assistant coach for the Red Foxes in the 2007 season, in which Marist advanced to the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference Tournament championship round.

“I am confident that Joe will do a great job with our softball team in the upcoming season,” Murray said. “His familiarity with Marist and the program will be beneficial.”

A native of Kingston, N.Y., Ausanio enjoyed a 10-year professional career. He pitched for the New York Yankees in the 1994 and 1995 seasons, compiling a 4-1 record with one save in 41 appearances, all as a reliever.

Ausanio has served as a softball official for the last seven years, umpiring local high school and Pony league games. He also works for the Hudson Valley Renegades, the New York-Penn League affiliate of the Tampa Bay Rays, as Director of Food Services.

Ausanio has also been contacted by the Yankees in recent years to throw a knuckleball for batting practice prior to when the team would be facing knuckleballer Tim Wakefield of the Boston Red Sox.
“I am excited to be a part of Marist softball,” Ausanio said. “I know that we have a great nucleus of returning players, and some exciting freshmen who are going to continue the standard this program has set. I’m very happy to have the opportunity to coach here.”

The Marist softball team has advanced to the championship round of the MAAC Tournament each of the last three years, capturing the conference crown in 2006. The Red Foxes return six starters from last year’s team, including senior Melissa Giordano (Stamford, Conn.), a First Team All-MAAC selection last year.

Bridget Fournie Named Assistant Softball Coach At Butler

Bridget Fournie, a former collegiate and professional softball player with seven years of coaching experience, has been named assistant softball coach at Butler. She joins the Bulldogs’ staff after spending the past two seasons as an assistant softball coach at Bradley University.
Fournie was an accomplished player at Illinois State University, 1998-2001, and she began her coaching career as a student assistant coach with the Redbirds in 2002. She served as an assistant coach at Belleville (Ill.) High School for one year (2003), at Maryville University in St. Louis, Mo., for two years (2004-05) and at Western Illinois University for one year (2006), before assuming her position at Bradley.
“Bridget has a tremendous passion for the game, and will be able to make an immediate impact. Her work on the field and her administrative talents, combined with her passion to make a difference in a college program, made her a perfect fit for Butler University and our softball program,” said Butler head softball coach Jeanne Rayman. “I am excited at what she will be able to contribute with offense, defense and recruiting.”
Success has followed Fournie as both a player and as an assistant coach. She was part of two conference championship teams as a player at Illinois State, and she helped the Redbirds to a third Missouri Valley Conference title as a student assistant coach. She helped Belleville High School to a state championship in 2003 and then was part of two conference championship teams at Maryville. In her one season at Western Illinois, the Westerwinds finished runner-up in the conference tournament.
A four-year letterwinner at Illinois State, Fournie was named All-Missouri Valley Conference as an outfielder for three straight years, 1999-2001. She set a school record with 217 career starts, every game of her collegiate career! She also finished third on Illinois State’s all-time list for runs scored with 117. She helped the Redbirds to a conference regular season title in 2001, back-to-back conference tournament championships in 2000 and 2001 and back-to-back NCAA Tournament appearances in 2000 and 2001. Over her final three seasons, the Redbirds posted 95 wins.
A three-time ASA Softball All-American, Fournie played one season of professional softball with the PFX Tour (2006). She also participated in the U. S. Olympic Team Tryouts in 1998 and 2002. She has served as a softball camp/clinic instructor at Bradley (2 years), Western Illinois (1 year), Maryville (2 years), Illinois State (6 years) and Belleville East High School (8 years).
Fournie earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Education and Kinesiology from Illinois State in 2002.

Mark Ryal Joins Auburn Softball Staff

Auburn, Ala. – The Auburn softball program has added former Major League Baseball player Mark Ryal as an assistant coach to work with hitters and outfielders, announced head softball coach Tina Deese.

Ryal joins the Tigers’ staff after spending the previous season as the head coach at Carl Albert State College in Poteau, Okla. Prior to that, Ryal served as head coach of the Inola (Okla.) High School softball program from 2003-2006.

“Mark brings a wealth of experience and poise to our program,” Deese said. “He will be a good fit and really help solidify our offense. I believe his experience is something that will translate well to our student-athletes.”

Ryal began his collegiate coaching career as the hitting coach for the University of Oklahoma in 1995, helping the Sooners to the College World Series. Oklahoma finished second in the Big Eight Conference in hitting in 1995.

As a player, Ryal broke into Major League Baseball in 1982 with the Kansas City Royals after beginning in the Royals’ minor league system in 1978. Ryal also played for the Chicago White Sox (1985), California Angels (1986-87), Philadelphia Phillies (1989) and the Pittsburgh Pirates (1990).

Ryal hit .375 as he helped the Angels to the American League Western Division title in 1986. The following year, Ryal led the American League in pinch-hits. His final year in MLB came in 1990 as he helped the Pittsburgh Pirates win the National League Eastern Division title.

Ryal also served one season as a scout for the Royals in 2005.

The Tigers finished the 2008 season with a 38-22 overall record and a 13-14 record in SEC play. Auburn advanced to the College Station Regional, marking the fourth postseason berth in the last five years.

Christy Hebert Named Assistant Coach With Hoosier Softball Team

BLOOMINGTON, Ind. – Indiana head softball coach Michelle Gardner rounded out her coaching staff on Tuesday, announcing the hiring of Christy Hebert as an assistant coach. Hebert has Big Ten ties, as she was a two-time All-American shortstop at Iowa and an assistant coach at Northwestern for two seasons.

“I am extremely excited to add Christy to my staff here at Indiana,” Gardner said. “She was a two-time All-American at Iowa and was an assistant at Northwestern so she has some tremendous connections to the Big Ten. And her head coaching experience at Northern Iowa will also be an asset not just to the coaching staff but to the entire program.”

Hebert (pronounced HEE-bert) was an assistant coach for the 2007 season with the New England Riptide of the National Pro Fastpitch league before moving on to be an instructor for Perfect Game USA in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, where she helped with developing hitting mechanics and defensive skills for players ranging from 10 to 17.

“I am really excited to be back in the Big Ten Conference and to coach at such a successful and wonderful school like Indiana University,” Hebert said. “I’m looking forward to working with Coach Gardner and Coach Rivera to bring success to the IU softball program.”

With the Riptide, she coached the league’s player of the year and pitcher of the year while also getting involved in the community through numerous camps and clinics.

Prior to moving on to the Riptide, Hebert coached at the University of Northern Iowa for seven seasons, the last five as the head coach. With the Panthers, Hebert coached the school’s only first team All-American as well as 15 All-Missouri Valley Conference selections and five Academic All-Conference selections.

Before joining Northern Iowa, Hebert was an assistant coach at Northwestern for the 1999 and 2000 seasons, helping the Wildcats collect three All-Big Ten selections and three NFCA All-Mideast Region selections in addition to an NFCA Academic All-American and a handful of Academic All-Big Ten honorees.

Upon the completion of her collegiate career at Iowa, Hebert played three summers, from 1998-2000, as a shortstop with the North Carolina Diamonds of the Women’s Professional Softball League and was named to the WPSL All-Star team.

During her career at the University of Iowa, she played shortstop for NFCA Hall of Fame head coach Gayle Blevins where she was an All-American in 1996 and 1997 and All-Big Ten from 1995-97. She was named team MVP in 1996 and a member of the Women’s College World Series All-Tournament team in 1997 while the Hawkeyes participated in the World Series in each of her final three seasons in Iowa City.

Memphis Adds Former All-American Catcher to Coaching Staff

MEMPHIS – Former LSU standout All-American catcher Killian Roessner begins her coaching career with the University of Memphis softball program, joining the team as an assistant coach.

“It’s what I’ve always dreamed of doing; I’ve always wanted to be a coach,” Roessner said. “I love working with the pitchers and catchers, and this job just seems like the perfect opportunity.”

Memphis head coach Windy Thees said Roessner is the perfect person to complete her staff, and she is thrilled for what she brings to the table.

“We’re really excited that Killian’s coming to our program,” she said. “She brings that youthful excitement that you have when you finish college and are ready to coach. It’s something that she’s always wanted to do.”

A four-year starter with the LSU Tigers (2005-08), Roessner finished her collegiate career batting .288 with 21 home runs, 109 RBI and 64 runs scored. The Manasquan, New Jersey, native started 214 of her 236 games played and holds the school record at LSU for most runners caught stealing and lowest stolen base percentage against.

Roessner was named a 2007 NFCA First-Team All-American after hitting .354 with six home runs and 23 runs scored as a junior. Roessner was named the 2007 Diamond Sports National Catcher of the Year for NCAA Division I catchers. She also ranks fourth in LSU history in sacrifice flies, seventh in doubles, 10th in home runs, 11th in hits and total bases and 12th in RBIs.

As a senior in 2008, Roessner was named the SEC Player of the Week on March 17 after hitting .500 with six RBIs, three doubles and two home runs for a 1.063 slugging percentage. In her final season at LSU, Roessner hit 10 home runs and recorded walk-off two-run homers to defeat Auburn and Pacific. She was named a preseason ESPN first-team All-American and was a member of the USA Softball Player of the Year Watch List heading into the 2008 season.

Roessner spent four seasons (2004-07) as a catcher/designated hitter on the Stratford Brakettes, one of the premiere softball dynasties in the Amateur Softball Association of America’s highest division. The summer program out of Stratford, Conn., has won 28 Women’s Major Fast Pitch national championships. The team had three alumni and a coach on Team USA at the Summer Olympics in Beijing, including Cat Osterman who Roessner caught while playing for the Brakettes.

With the Brakettes, Roessner hit .351 in 147 games played with 10 home runs, 102 RBI and 75 runs scored.

Roessner earned three letters in softball at Lawrenceville Prep School before transferring to Wall High School, where she earned one letter. She was named the 2003 Prep Player of the Year and was a first-team all-state selection for three years.

After catching some of the top pitchers in softball with the Brakettes and LSU, Roessner will work with the pitchers and catchers at Memphis.

“I’m excited to hand over a lot of the pitching responsibilities to her and put my focus more on the entire team,” Thees said. “With someone like Killian, I have no problem doing that.”

UT Arlington: Courtney Zinks Heads Recruiting Class Before Fall Practice

ARLINGTON, Texas – Before stepping onto the diamond this season for the start of Fall practice, recently signed infielder Courtney Zink has added numerous awards to her trophy case.

The Baytown Sterling High School product collected TXSWA (Texas Sportswriters Association) Second Team All-State laurels, was a TGCA (Texas Girls Coaches Association) All-State award winner, earned TGCA Academic accolades, and was selected to play in the 4A/5A All-Star Game this past summer.

During her prep career, Zink led her team to a 68-21 overall record, where she earned Second-Team All-District honors her junior season and followed that with First-Team laurels as a senior.

Zink joins Kingwood shortstop Courtney Enocksen, Pasadena Dobie infielder/outfielder Kelsey Kaiser, Frisco outfielder/infielder Kari Karr, Forney catcher Erica LeFlore, Deer Park outfielder Lissette (Liz) Lopez, and Houston Clear Lake outfielder Charne Office as part of the seven-player recruiting class.

Yale Tied for 9th in Division I NCSA Collegiate Power Rankings

NEW HAVEN, Conn. – Yale tied for ninth among all Division I schools in the National Collegiate Scouting Association Collegiate Power Rankings released on Monday. The Collegiate Power Rankings rate colleges and universities comprehensively based on student-athlete graduation rates, academic strength and athletic prowess of the university. The institutions posted in the 2008 Power Rankings are in an elite group of less than 6% of colleges and universities across the nation.

“For a school to be at the top of a list of more than 1,000 NCAA schools with athletic programs is remarkable,” said Chris Krause, Founder and President of NCSA and the originator of the NCSA Collegiate Power Rankings list. “Yale has made it to the top 2.5% overall in the rankings because of its commitment to academic and athletics, as well as its commitment to graduating its student-athletes. NCSA’s power rankings objectively help prospective student-athletes compare each of their collegiate opportunities so they can make the most educated decision possible when it comes to their future. To be listed as one of the top schools in the 2008 NCSA Power Rankings shows dedication and commitment to running a first-class program, and deserves to be recognized.”

The Collegiate Power Rankings from NCSA are calculated for each college and university at the NCAA Division I, II and III levels by averaging the U.S. News & World Report ranking, the U.S. Sports Academy Directors’ Cup ranking and the NCAA student-athlete graduation rate of each college/university. The U.S. Sports Academy Directors’ Cup rating evaluates the strength of NCAA athletic departments, while the U.S. News & World Report rating recognizes institutions of academic excellence. The student-athlete graduation rates are based on those provided by the NCAA.

In addition to its ninth-place showing in the Division I category, Yale was 21st in the NCSA’s overall rankings, which include schools from all divisions. The Yale Athletics Department has received numerous honors for its overall performance this past year, leading the nation for the third year in a row with 28 teams receiving NCAA Public Recognition Awards for high Academic Progress Rate scores.

In addition to the collegiate power rankings, NCSA publishes recruiting guidelines and provides education to the nation’s top clubs, camps and combines to high school athletic directors, coaches and families of student-athletes who are interested in competing at the next level.

“The backbone of NCSA is education,” said Krause. “The NCSA staff consists of more than 70 former collegiate athletes and college coaches whose focus is to match college coaches with qualified and committed student athletes, maximizing their collegiate recruiting potential.”

More than 35,000 college coaches and more than 1,700 colleges and universities use NCSA to meet their recruiting needs. NCSA annually tracks more than 100,000 of the top student athletes in 25 sports who will be making their way on to college rosters with the ultimate goal of earning a college degree.

Division I NCSA Collegiate Power Rankings

1. Stanford University
2. Duke University
3. Princeton University
4. Harvard University
5. University of Notre Dame
6. Johns Hopkins University
7. University of Pennsylvania
8. Northwestern University
9. (tie) Yale University, Cornell University

Complete Rankings at NCSA Website

Texas Announces Fall Exhibition Schedule

AUSTIN, Texas – The Texas Softball team has released its fall exhibition schedule, which is a five-game slate that features five home games at Red & Charline McCombs Field. Admission for all fall home exhibition games is free.

Texas will kick-off its fall calendar on Wednesday, Oct. 15 when it plays host to Odessa College at 7 p.m. The following week the Horns will host Western Texas College on Oct. 22 and they will wrap up the month of October with a game against Alvin Community College on Oct. 29. All of Texas’ fall games are scheduled for a 7 p.m. start.

The Longhorns play two games in November, starting with a tilt against Temple College on Nov. 5 and they conclude the fall schedule against McLennan Community College on Nov. 12.

Texas returns 14 letterwinners from last year’s squad which went 29-23-2 and earned a trip to the NCAA Houston Regional.

Purdue: Summer Ball Success

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. – After helping the Boilermaker softball team to its first-ever NCAA Tournament berth in May, a trio of Purdue players continued their softball escapades into the summer and found even more success on the diamond.

Pitcher Suzie Rzegocki, who posted a 15-9 record with 125 strikeouts in 167 innings for the Boilermakers during the spring, guided her Lemont Rockers squad to the ASA Girls’ 18U Class A Fast Pitch National Championship.

The Rockers went 8-0 en route to the 2008 USA/ASA title, including a 5-1 victory against the Minnesota Sting Elite in the championship game on Aug. 3. The experience was invaluable to the sophomore-to-be, but it came with some challenges.

“My experience at nationals was indescribable,” Rzegocki said. “Our team had lost one of the greatest coaches that our organization had ever had that week, and we decided that we needed to win the tournament for him. After we decided to play for DiDi (Jim “DiDi” DiGregorio [Feb. 27, 1949-July 30, 2008]), we went undefeated and won the tournament. That was one of the best feelings in the world. Knowing that we pulled it off and won the tournament for him was awesome, but at the same time sad because we all wished he could have been there to share that moment with us.”

Despite the hardship, Rzegocki said the experience has molded her into the kind of player that can help her Boilermaker squad excel, as well.

“This experience will help me at Purdue because there were a lot of young girls on the team, so the other college girls and I needed to step up in this time of need and be leaders,” Rzegocki said. “We needed to show them that we were going to fight for the win no matter what. And that is exactly what we did.”

Third baseman Ashley Hall (2005-08) and shortstop Candace Curtis garnered national honors as their St. Louis Saints squad finished tied for fifth in the ASA Women’s Major Fast Pitch National Championships in Amherst, N.Y., from Aug. 7-10.

Hall, who batted .298 with 36 runs scored, eight triples and eight stolen bases in her final season as a Boilermaker, was named to the Women’s Major Fast Pitch National Championship first team as a utility player. Curtis, who posted a .333 average, including a team-best 44 RBI and 11 home runs in her junior campaign, earned second team honors as an infielder in the Women’s Major Fast Pitch division.

Curtis said her time with the Saints kept her in action, which will only continue to help her improve her skills.

“ASA Nationals was a great experience,” Curtis said. “I got to play a lot of good teams and face good competition in the offseason. Whenever you can face live pitching and strong competition, it keeps you on your game. Not everyone gets that kind of game-like experience in the offseason, so it definitely will be beneficial for me this year.”

The 2008 Boilermakers posted a 35-23 record, including a fifth-place Big Ten finish, en route to its inaugural NCAA Tournament berth and victory.

Michelle Summers Returns to Team as Assistant Coach

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. – (Friday, August 22, 2008) Redhawks head softball coach Lana Richmond has announced the addition of Redhawks great Michelle Summers to her coaching staff for the upcoming season. Summers joins sixth-year assistant coach Jeannine Soncini to round out the team’s coaching staff.

“I’m really excited to continue to be a part of the Redhawks softball program,” said Summers. “this is a tremendous opportunity for me and I want to thank Coach Richmond and Southeast Missouri State for allowing me to follow my dream.”

Summers, a native of Glendale, California played for the Redhawks this past season after coming to Cape Girardeau as a freshman in 2004. She was a four-time All-OVC selection including being named to the All-OVC First Team three times including her final two seasons.

One of the OVC’s most prolific power-hitters in history she finished with a team-high 13 homeruns this past season which tied for third in the OVC standings. It was her fourth-straight season hitting 10 or more homeruns in her career as she owns the school’s career record with 48 homeruns. The 13 homeruns ranks second on the all-time list as she owns four of the top-five single season homerun marks including the No. 1 spot with 14 homeruns during the 2007 season.

She batted a career-high .376 in 2008 which was third in the OVC behind teammate Megan McDonald. She feasted on OVC pitchers as she batted a team-best .386 and hit nine of her 13 homeruns against her conference foes. She led the team with 39 runs, 114 total bases (a new school record), .472 on base percentage and a .691 slugging percentage. Her 13 doubles and 21 walks were second on the team. She also led the team and the OVC with 20 multi-hit games on the year.

She owns seven school records in career at bats (670), runs (161), doubles (47), homeruns (48), RBIs (132), walks (80) and total bases (423). She ranks second in hits (228), games played (208), games started (208), hit by pitch (24) and slugging (.631) while ending her career with a .340 average which ranks sixth all-time.

She continued her hot-hitting this summer as she was named First Team All-American while playing in the Amateur Softball Association of America (ASA) Women’s Open.

“I’m very pleased to have Michelle as a part of our coaching staff,” said Coach Richmond. “She wants to explore a career in coaching and this presents her the opportunity to gain valuable experience at the Division I level.”

Summers duties will include assisting the team in defensive assignments and hitting. Her additional duties include scouting and administrative work.

Irish Softball Set To Host Fall Clinic In September

NOTRE DAME, Ind. – The University of Notre Dame softball program will be offering instructional hitting and pitching clinics for athletes ages six and older Sept. 21 and Nov. 16. Each hitting and pitching session spans two hours at a cost of $65 per registered athlete. Three hitting sessions will be held on Sept. 21 while four sessions will take place on Nov. 16. The pitching clinic is only being offered on Sept. 21.

The clinics will be conducted by Irish head coach Deanna Gumpf, assistants Kris Ganeff and Lizzy Lemire, and members of the Notre Dame softball team. The September session will take place at the newly constructed Melissa Cook Stadium, with the November clinic at the Eck Indoor Facility.

Participants must send a completed camp brochure to the softball office with appropriate payment by Sept. 28.

For more information, please contact assistant coach Kris Ganeff at ganeff.2@nd.edu or call 574.631.9125.

Kentucky Hosts Louisville Wednesday

LEXINGTON, Ky. The University of Kentucky softball team will meet in-state rival Louisville for the 20th time in program history riding a seven-game winning streak Wednesday, March 5, at the UK Softball Complex.

Kentuckys stretch of seven wins is the second-most in school history. The record is eight-straight set in 2005. The Wildcats have been riding high since taking third place at the Hawaii Shootout and have strung together six wins since returning to the main land, outscoring their opponents 54-19. The Blue and White have also totaled double-digit scoring figures in three of those games.

This past weekend UK went undefeated in four contests at the Chattanooga Frost Classic. The Wildcats got wins over Wright State (5-1), Marshall (10-4), Eastern Illinois (5-1) and Indiana (10-5). Sophomore pitcher Amber Matousek was a perfect 2-0 for UK in the circle, striking out 10 batters to move her season total to 44 in just nine appearances. She has now amassed more strikeouts this season than in 23 appearances in all of last season.

Sophomore Natalie Smith was a big factor in two UK wins. Against Wright State she belted her second career home run to help stretch a thinning Kentucky lead in the sixth inning. Smith was a perfect 3-for-3 at the dish against Wright State which also included a double.

Kentucky is outscoring its opponent 22-12 in the sixth inning and is a perfect 7-0 when leading through six. The 22 runs scored in the sixth frame are more than in any other inning. Trailing by one run the Kentucky softball team plated six scores in the top of the sixth inning to earn a 10-5, win over Indiana. Smiths double and freshman Annie Rowlands first career home run ignited the six-run inning securing the fourth win of the weekend.

The Wildcats also used a bit of power-ball as four Wildcats sent their first career home runs over the fence in Chattanooga. Freshmen Meagan Aull, Samantha DeMartine and Annie Rowlands and senior Ashley Dimkich all recorded their first round tripper.

Adding to the successful weekend, Head Coach Rachel Lawson won her 100th career game when UK took a 5-1 win over Eastern Illinois in the second game Saturday. Kentucky and Louisville have previously met 19 times on the softball field, with UK holding a 12-7 advantage. The first meeting between the two schools was March 29, 2000, in Lexington, where the Cardinals took a 2-0 victory. UK has twice had a three-game winning streak over their state rivals in the series.

Complete coverage and live stats of the game against the Cardinals will be available at www.ukathletics.com.

Softball Elects 2009 Captains

Seniors Angela Pandolfo, Danielle Pandolfo and Renee Ramos have been elected 2009 Boston College softball captains, according to an announcement made by head coach Jen Finley.

Angela Pandolfo, a fifth-year outfielder, returns for her second consecutive season as team captain. Over her career, Pandolfo has seen action in 101 games, starting in 66 contests.

Danielle Pandolfo, also an outfielder joins Angela – her older sister – as team captain. Pandolfo missed most of last season because of a knee injury. She has played in 58 career games, making 36 starts.

Ramos earned second team All-ACC honors after a breakout season in 2008. She registered team highs in batting average (.341) with hits (58), home runs (10) and RBI (45).

The Eagles open their fall season on Sept. 20 at UMass-Amherst.

Gomez Brings Olympic Experience to Lee (Tenn.)

CLEVELAND, Tenn. — Johana Gomez is scheduled to arrive on the Lee (Tenn.) University campus on Aug. 30 and softball coach Emily Russell can’t wait to see the right-handed hurler in action.

Russell, like millions of others around the world, watched on TV as the Venezuelan toed the rubber in softball Olympic competition against the powerful United States, Taiwan, Japan and Australia teams. All totaled, Gomez, who is transferring to Lee from Iowa Southeastern Community College, pitched in 13.1 innings during the Beijing, China action. She was used as the starting pitcher against the multi-talented American squad, and like most other teams, did not fare well. In four Olympic outings, Gomez allowed 12 earned runs and finished with a 6.30 ERA. She gave up 19 hits, struck out five and walked five.

It was the first appearance in Olympic competition for the Venezuelan team. Gomez was one of three hurlers used by Venezuela and she enjoyed the lead against a very good Japan team when she was lifted for another pitcher. Venezuela did go on to whip Canada, a club which reached the medal round in the rugged competition.

Gomez will join Venezuelan shortstop Hernanza Ruiz on Russell’s squad for the upcoming season. Ruiz was a key member of the Lee’s 2008 team and was named all-conference and all-region.

“I think the Olympic games were very important experience for Johana,” said the Lee coach. “She has challenged the best in the world and now she will get to play the final two years in college. That should give her a mental edge as we are going through the season.

“I have seen from Hernanza (Ruiz) a unique perspective on the game and I am excited to see how Johana’s joining our team will add to that intensity and competitiveness. I think it is a huge maturation process to train and play the way Johana and Hernanza have been since they were young. They play with poise and confidence beyond their years,” Russell added.

“I know they both will be a huge strength for our team,” she noted. “We have three freshmen pitchers that will be joining the staff as well. They are talented and she’ll be a help to all three. I think it is amazing that Johana has gotten to take part in the Olympic experience,” said Russell.

Russell admits she will be disappointed if Gomez doesn’t turnout to be something special. “I am so thrilled that she will be here with us and that we don’t have to face her somewhere down the road. Seriously, she is a dynamic player that is fun to watch. She truly enjoys playing softball and it shows in her attitude and intensity. Even though she will only be here for two seasons, I think she will find her place in the record book,” stressed Russell, who set a number of records during her pitching days for the Lady Flames.

While Gomez was playing in the Olympics, Ruiz was a member of her state team. She was cut from the Olympic selection process late in the spring.

Halle Popson 2008 Nan Harvey Sportsmanship Award Winner

OXFORD, Ohio – OXFORD, Ohio – Halle Popson was named the Nan Harvey Sportsmanship Award winner on Tuesday by the Mid-American Conference (MAC).

Nan Harvey was a part of the University at Buffalo family for over two decades as a student, coach and administrator before passing away in 2003 after a three-year battle with cancer. Her hard work and never give up attitude for pushing forward were all self driven and qualities that cannot be taught or coached. The Nan Harvey Sportsmanship Award is given to a softball player who demonstrates the various qualities that Harvey possessed.

“Halle had all the great qualities you look for in an athlete and teammate,” Miami head coach Kelly Schoenly said. “She was tenacious, competitive, intense, and she thrived under pressure. But what I will remember Halle for as a student-athlete here at Miami is what she brought us as a person and leader. She was compassionate, dedicated, generous, and had a tremendous positive spirit. She is so deserving of the Nan Harvey Award and we are thrilled that our opponents saw in her what we saw every day. She will be hard to replace, but she has left a standard for those that follow.”

Popson can add this can add this honor to a trophy self already loaded with hardware as her many awards in her time at Miami include 2008 Leann Grimes Davidge Award, 2008 Women’s Leadership Award given by Miami University Women’s Center, 2008 Miami University President’s Distinguished Service Award, and the 2008 Miami University Senior Service Leadership Award. On the field she was named to the All-MAC Second Team (2008), All-MAC First Team (2007) and All-MAC Tournament Team (2005).

What the MAC Coaches had to say about Popson:

“I had the pleasure of watching Halle as both a high school and college athlete and was always impressed not only with her overall athletics ability, but also her ability to naturally lead her team and serve as a good teammate. Halle has overcome tough situations and was still able to succeed in all aspects of college life. For a kid to have that kind of internal fortitude is impressive and deserving of acknowledgement.” – Julie Jones, Akron University Head Softball Coach

“Popson is a student athlete that speaks volumes about our game. From the outside looking in I think she has a great personality, is a fierce competitor, and I know that she does things right away from the softball field. She had a great career, and I’m sure there are bigger things ahead for her.” – Craig Nicholson, Ball State University Head Softball Coach

“Halle was an incredible competitor, as an opposing player she displayed great leadership and sportsmanship on and off the field. She was an outstanding first baseman and was a threat at the plate and on the base path.” – Karen Baird, Eastern Michigan University Head Softball Coach

Smith Promoted To Associate Head Coach

CHAPEL HILL, N.C. – North Carolina assistant softball coach Beverly Smith has been elevated to associate head coach as announced by head coach Donna J. Papa Tuesday. Smith is a 1994 alum of UNC where she was named the ACC Player of the Year in 1994. Smith spent the 1998-2002 seasons in Chapel Hill before returning again in 2004 to lead the pitching staff. A pair of pitchers have earned All-America honors under Smith’s tutelage including rising junior Danielle Spaulding in 2008.

“I am pleased to elevate Beverly to Associate Head Coach, she has been an integral part of the Carolina Softball program over the last 10 years as my assistant as well as distinguishing herself as an outstanding softball player here,” Head Coach Donna J. Papa said. “Her recruiting efforts have helped us put together six NCAA appearances in the last seven years and under her direction, our pitching staff had one of our most outstanding seasons to date last year.”

In 2008, the Tar Heels turned in the fifth-best earned run average in the nation at 1.12 en route to leading the team to its first 50-win season in school history. Carolina went on to host the first-ever NCAA regional at Anderson Stadium as a number two seed in the NCAA Tournament.

Tar Heels Welcomes Class of 2012

The North Carolina softball team held its annual Rookie Brunch this past Sunday in Rams Room in the Kenan Fieldhouse to welcome their incoming freshmen class before starting their fall workouts. The gathering gave the freshmen and their families an opportunity to visit with the coaches, players and support staff while also looking back at the successful 2008 season and look ahead to the upcoming 2009 campaign.

The class of 2012 includes:

Leah Francona – INF – Brookline, Mass.

Francona is a middle infielder from Brookline High School and plays her summer ball for the Polar Crush. She was First Team All-Bay State League and earned league MVP honors as a sophomore. During her time in Pennsylvania she was named Second Team All-Southeast Pennsylvania, Courier Times and Suburban One League as an outfielder. Francona was also named to the inaugural Carpenter Cup All-Star team. She will join her sister, Alyssa, who will be a senior in 2009.

Kelsey Green – SS – McLean, Va.

Green is a shortstop who hails from Langley High School where she has been a three-time first team all-district selection. Along with a first team all-region honor, Green has been named to the all-region second team twice and was named Washington Post All-Met Honorable Mention. A Gatorade Rookie Player of the Year, Green, plays her summer ball for Shamrocks who placed fifth at the ASA Gold Nationals in 2007.

Constance Orr – 1B/P – Charlotte, N.C.

Orr a pitcher/first baseman from Charlotte, N.C. helped lead her Butler High School team to the 2008 4A State Championship for the third consecutive year. A right-handed pitcher, Orr finished the season with a perfect 22-0 record with 231 strikeouts in 140 innings. Orr finished the 2008 season with a 0.02 ERA, the second-best mark in state history after allowing just four earned runs. She was named the 2008 Southwestern 4A Player of the Year as well as the Charlotte Observer 2008 Player of the Year after her stellar year in the circle.

Kelli Wheeler – OF – Marietta, Ga.

Wheeler is an outfielder from Lassiter High School, which captured the 5A state championship in 2007. Wheeler is a two-time all-state honoree in Georgia and has been named the Cobb County Player of the Year the last two seasons. A four-time all-region selection, Wheeler plays her summer ball for the East Cobb Bullets.

ECU Softball To Hold Walk-On Tryouts

The East Carolina University softball team will hold open walk-on tryouts on Sept. 18 at the ECU softball field, starting at 5:00 p.m., head coach Tracey Kee announced Tuesday.

All interested students should bring cleats, a glove, a bat, a helmet and catching gear if you are a catcher.

All participants must complete a try-out health history questionnaire prior to Sept. 15. The form can be downloaded on-line or picked up in the ECU Athletic Training Room, which is located on the first floor in Ward Sports Medicine Building. If the form is not completed and returned to Athletic Training personnel, students may not try out.

Students also need to e-mail Coach Kee at keet@ecu.edu to confirm attendance at this try out. Included in the e-mail needs to be the participant’s name, local phone number, permanent address and position.

Likely activities at the tryout will be offensive drills, defensive drills, timed base running, pitching/catching drills and an aerobic fitness test.

For further information, students can contact Coach Kee by phone at 252-737-1428 or by e-mail at keet@ecu.edu.

Layton Named Head Softball Coach

KINGSTON, R.I. – Erin Layton has been hired as head softball coach at the University of Rhode Island, it was announced today by director of athletics Thorr Bjorn.

“We are excited to have Erin join the University of Rhode Island athletics family,” Bjorn said. “She has a passion for the game of softball and will provide URI with the work ethic and determination needed to put our softball program in position to compete for a conference championship, year in and year out. Erin possesses the skills necessary to move our program forward.”

Layton comes to Kingston after spending two successful seasons as the head coach at Marist College in Poughkeepsie, N.Y. This May, Layton led the Red Foxes to the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference championship game. In her two years at Marist, her teams earned back-to-back trips to the league championship tournament, while averaging 22 wins per season.

Prior to her stint at Marist, Layton served as head coach at Saint Francis (Pa.) in Loretto, Pa. from 2005-06 and the College of Saint Elizabeth in Morristown, N.J. in 2004. She also served as an assistant coach at Furman (2002-03) and Brown (2001).

A four-year letterwinner during her playing career at the Connecticut, Layton earned first-team All-Big East accolades as a junior and senior and was a member of two Big East Championship teams. Layton compiled a .297 career average as a catcher and ranks among UConn’s Top 10 in five career categories, including games played (209), runs batted in (100), and base hits (211). The Huskies posted a composite record of 127-83-1 during her collegiate career, including a 55-15 mark in Big East play, and advanced to NCAA Regional competition in 1995 and 1996.

After graduation, Layton played professionally for the New Jersey Diamonds of the Ladies Professional Baseball League. In 1999, she was selected as the softball Player of the Decade by the Trenton Times.

Layton earned a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education in 1998 and a master’s degree in sports management in 2000, both from Connecticut.

Deb Smith Named Maine's Head Softball Coach

ORONO, Maine–University of Maine Director of Athletics Blake James announced today that Deb Smith has been named head softball coach. A former softball standout for the Black Bears from 1991-1994, she was named America East Coach of the Year in 2002 and led Maine to an NCAA Tournament berth in 2004.

“I am thrilled to have Deb back in Maine leading our softball program,” said James. “Deb understands the important role athletics plays within our University and state, and embraces our vision of academic achievement, athletic excellence and positive community representation. She has experienced success as a student-athlete and as a head coach, and I am confident that under her leadership, our softball program will once again be at the top of the America East Conference both academically and athletically.”

“I am extremely excited for the opportunity to come back to the University of Maine where I was fortunate enough to be both a student-athlete and coach,” said Smith. “I look forward to working with the softball program, returning it to America East and regional prominence, and most importantly, to working with such a promising group of young women.”

Smith comes to Maine from the University of Rhode Island, where she served as head coach for the past three seasons. Last season, she mentored senior pitcher Jill Anderson, who was named the 2008 Atlantic 10 Female Student-Athlete of the Year for the school.

Prior to Rhode Island, Smith served as head softball coach of the Black Bears from August 1999 through June 2004. The 2004 squad finished as America East Champions and competed in the NCAA Regional for the first time since the 1994 season. Under Smith’s guidance, Maine advanced to the America East Tournament in each season from 2002 through 2004.

Smith was named America East Coach of the Year in 2002, marking the first time in league history that a former America East Player of the Year was also honored with coach-of-the-year honors. The 2002 squad made the America East Tournament for the first time in four seasons, and the Black Bears brought home nine individual honors.

Smith also coached 2000 America East Player of the Year Sara Jewett. Prior to serving as head coach, Smith was an assistant coach at Maine for five seasons under Janet Anderson.

Smith excelled on the field and in the classroom at Maine. She was named the North Atlantic Conference Co-Pitcher and Co-Player of the Year in 1994. She was also selected as the North Atlantic Conference Tournament Most Valuable Player that year after winning back-to-back games in the final day of the competition as Maine advanced from the loser’s bracket to winning the championship. The NCAA appearance for the softball team was the first NCAA appearance for a women’s team in school history. Smith still holds three school records, including most career doubles (39), most career innings pitched (582.1) and most career victories (50).

Smith was named a 1994 GTE/CoSIDA Academic All-American and received the 1994 M Club/Dean Smith Award as Maine’s top scholar-athlete. In 2001, Smith was inducted in the University of Maine Sports Hall of Fame.

A native of Munnsville, N.Y., Smith is a 1994 graduate of the University of Maine with a B.S. in Health Fitness/Athletic Training with a Science Concentration.

U.S. Olympian Stacey Nuveman Named Aztec Assistant Coach

SAN DIEGO – San Diego State softball head coach Kathy Van Wyk announced Wednesday the hiring of three-time U.S. Olympian Stacey Nuveman as an assistant coach at SDSU. Nuveman brings a host of softball experience and accolades to The Mesa, and is currently going for her third gold medal as the starting catcher for the 2008 U.S. Olympic team.

In addition to her two Olympic gold medals (2000 and 2004), Nuveman has helped the United States National Team to a World Cup champion (2006), two World Championships (2002 and 2006) and two Pan American gold medals (1999 and 2003).

Nuveman will be the recruiting coordinator and will predominantly be working with the Aztec hitters.

“We could not be more excited to have Stacey on our coaching staff,” Van Wyk said. “She brings a wealth of experience at every level of our game and will help us continue our rise up the rankings. Our players can’t wait to get started, but for now they will have to settle for watching her hopefully bring home the gold.”

“I am thrilled with the opportunity to work at San Diego State University,” Nuveman said. “Coach Van Wyk and her staff have done an incredible job with the program and I look forward to helping to continue that trend. I feel privileged and honored to be an Aztec.”

Nuveman has worked at a variety of camps and clinics, and is highlighted in the instructional video entitled, “The Fundamentals of Catching.” In addition, Nuveman has worked color commentary for ESPN, CSTV (now CBS College Sports Television) and FOX Sports.

Nuveman was a standout at UCLA, finishing her four-year career with four NCAA records – 90 home runs, 299 RBI, .945 slugging percentage and 240 walks. She was a four-time first-team NFCA All-American (1997, 1999, 2001-02) and a three-time Pac-10 Player of the Year (1999, 2001-02). Nuveman is also ranked first in school history in games played (264), total bases (653) and on-base percentage (.600).

In 1999, Nuveman led the Bruins to a national championship, batting .446 during the season with 31 home runs and 91 RBI. For her efforts in the national title run, Nuveman was named to the all-Women’s College World Series team.

In addition to her on-field accomplishments, Nuveman also works with several organizations, including the Visalia Miracle League, the Women’s Sports Foundation, and the Make-a-Wish Foundation.

La Salle Appoints Brianne Brown Head Softball Coach

Philadelphia- La Salle Director of Athletics, Dr. Thomas Brennan, announced the appointment of Brianne Brown as head softball coach. Brown was an assistant under former coach Joe DiPietro during the 2008 season.

“We were very impressed with Brianne’s knowledge of the game and commitment to advancing the program,” said Brennan. “Brianne’s relationship with the players is also a valuable asset that we are sure will help make the transition as the new coach a smooth one.”

Brown is a former softball standout at Drexel University, where she played third base and was a two-year captain along with a Colonial Athletic Association (CAA) second-team All-Conference selection her senior year. She batted .312 in her final season and led the team in homeruns. She still holds two Drexel softball records including career homeruns and career walks. She also ranks third in career doubles, seventh in career runs and 11th in career hits.

“I am looking forward to La Salle softball’s future with Brianne at the helm. Her youth will bring plenty of energy to the program, and her previous experience with the team will add stability and continuity,” said La Salle Assistant Director of Athletics Christopher Kane, who has administrative oversight of the softball program.

In her role as assistant coach under former La Salle Head Coach Joe DiPietro, Brown’s responsibilities included working with infielders and outfielders. She also has previous coaching experience with the Newtown Rock Gold- a tournament softball team.

The Levittown, PA native majored in Corporate Communication at Drexel and is enrolled in La Salle’s Master of Business Administration (MBA) program.

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La Salle Appoints Head Softball Coach

Philadelphia, PA- La Salle Director of Athletics, Dr. Thomas Brennan, announced the appointment of Brianne Brown as head softball coach. Brown was an assistant under former coach Joe DiPietro during the 2008 season.

We were very impressed with Briannes knowledge of the game and commitment to advancing the program, said Brennan. Briannes relationship with the players is also a valuable asset that we are sure will help make the transition as the new coach a smooth one.

Brown is a former softball standout at Drexel University, where she played third base and was a two-year captain along with a Colonial Athletic Association (CAA) second-team All-Conference selection her senior year. She batted .312 in her final season and led the team in homeruns. She still holds two Drexel softball records including career homeruns and career walks. She also ranks third in career doubles, seventh in career runs and 11th in career hits.

“I am looking forward to La Salle softball’s future with Brianne at the helm. Her youth will bring plenty of energy to the program, and her previous experience with the team will add stability and continuity, said La Salle Assistant Director of Athletics Christopher Kane, who has administrative oversight of the softball program.

In her role as assistant coach under former La Salle Head Coach Joe DiPietro, Browns responsibilities included working with infielders and outfielders. She also has previous coaching experience with the Newtown Rock Gold- a tournament softball team.

The Levittown, PA native majored in Corporate Communication at Drexel and is enrolled in La Salle’s Master of Business Administration (MBA) program.

Diamond Desires?

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. – Tryouts for the 2008-09 Purdue softball team are just around the corner. As the new school year begins, head coach Kim Maher announced a few important dates for prospective Boilermaker softball players.

All individuals interested in walking onto the Boilermaker softball team this season, must attend a mandatory team meeting from 5 to 6 p.m. on Friday, August 25. This meeting will take place in the King Conference Room located in the basement of Mackey Arena.

On-field tryouts will take place at 10 a.m., Sept. 7 at the Varsity Softball Complex. Those participating in the tryouts should bring all of their own necessary equipment.

All potential walk-ons must be enrolled full-time at Purdue University this fall and are required to provide proof of a pre-participation physical exam. This exam must have been conducted within the last 12 calendar months. Failure to provide documentation of a physical exam will result in omission from the tryout process.

Please call the softball office at 494-3217 with any additional questions.

Kansas Softball Walk-On Meeting Scheduled For Aug. 25

LAWRENCE, Kan. -A mandatory meeting for students interested in trying out for the 2008-09 Kansas softball team will be held on Aug. 25 in the Dolph Simons Room.

The Dolph Simons room is located on the first level of the Wagnon Student-Athlete Center. Individuals who attend the meeting must bring a copy of their insurance card and a copy of a physical that they have had within the last six months.

If you are interested in trying out but can not make the meeting, please contact head coach Tracy Bunge at 785-864-4737 or email at bunge@ku.edu.

Worth Named Official Softball of the NAIA

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – The National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) announced today it will use the Worth Sports NAIAFP softball ball at the NAIA Softball National Championships beginning in 2009 through 2013. In addition to its ball sponsorship Worth Sports will host the fellowship breakfast and the women’s symposium at the NAIA national convention through 2013.

“Worth Sports is committed to providing great products to use in competition,” said Mike Campbell, NAIA Vice President for Marketing and Corporate Partnerships. “We are thrilled to partner with a company that is a leader in the industry and an avid fan of the NAIA student-athlete experience.”

“The new partnership offers a win-win situation for both NAIA student-athletes and Worth Sports,” said Mike Thompson, Worth Sports Senior Vice President of Sports Marketing and New Business Development. “Top performing players deserve high performance products, and Worth Sports is proud to partner with the NAIA advisory board on product development and customer satisfaction.”

About the NAIA
The National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA), headquartered in Kansas City, Missouri, is the governing body for athletics programs at its nearly 300 colleges and universities throughout the United States and Canada. The long-held mission of the NAIA is to promote the education and development of well-rounded students and productive citizens through intercollegiate athletics. The Association offers equitable access and opportunities for participation in its 23 national championship events held annually throughout the country.

Today, the NAIA strengthens its commitment to student-athletes and strives to enrich their college experience by supporting academic achievement and character development. NAIA Champions of Character is the association’s innovative flagship program designed to instill character values in student-athletes, coaches and youth in the communities it serves.

Softball's Assistant Coach Jocelyn Forest Resigns

UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. – Penn State softball assistant coach Jocelyn Forest is leaving the program immediately due to her and her fiancé relocating. Forest served as the pitching coach the last two seasons helping guide the team to a 60-47 record during her tenure.

“Jocelyn will be greatly missed,” said head coach Robin Petrini. “She has been a tremendous asset to our program. We wish her all the best in her future.”

Forest joined the staff in July of 2006 after serving one year as the assistant at Boston University. The search for a new assistant coach will begin immediately.

Flyer Softball Finalizes Recruiting Class

University of Dayton head softball coach Cara Clark today announced her completed 2009 recruiting class – her first since taking over the program last season. Paige VanHoose (Worthington, Ky.) and Sarah Wedel (Salina, Kan.) signed National Letters of Intent and will join the Flyers in the fall of 2008.

“We are extremely excited to complete our first recruiting class with the Flyers softball program. Our team is bolstered by the addition of talented athletes such as VanHoose and Wedel,” said Clark. “We expect each of them to have a significant impact on this year’s success.”

VanHoose is a versatile athlete who pitched and played outfield for Raceland-Worthington Independent High School. She was selected as the Region16 Pitcher of the Year in 2007 and 2008, while also earning a spot on the all-Area team for three consecutive seasons (2006-08). VanHoose led her high school to back-to-back Regional championships and a state runner-up finish in 2007. She was twice named to the all-District and all-Region Tournament Teams, in addition to being selected to the all-”A” State Tournament team in 2007.

As a senior captain, she led the Rams with a .390 batting average and earned her 50th career win. The 2008 U.S. Army Reserve National Scholar Athlete Award winner was also a standout volleyball player.

Wedel was a standout pitcher at Salina South High School where she holds the single-game record for strikeouts with 21. She was a three-time Kansas 5A all-State pitcher, earning the honor from 2006-2008. Wedel was a first team all-Arch Valley Chisholm Trail League pitcher four consecutive years and was named Salina South’s MVP in 2007 and 2008.

She was named to the adidas® Top 100 Softball Athletes in 2006. Like fellow incoming freshman VanHoose, Wedel was honored with 2008 U.S. Army Reserve National Scholar Athlete Award. Wedel also played for the Wichita Mustangs Gold, a nationally renowned club team that consistently sends teams to Nationals.

Clark and her staff inked Brandy Brown (Fortville Ind.), Raime Cronkhite (Grand Rapids, Mich.) and Kristina Ortiz (Burbank, Calif.) all to letters of intent during the early signing period last fall and signed Courtney Kutsulis (Homer Glen, Ill.) and Lauren Nacke (Greenwood, Ind.) in April.

“This complete recruiting class, in combination with our returning players, will help this program take a big step toward our overall goals,” said Clark.

In her first season at the helm Clark guided the 2008 edition of the Flyers to their first 20-win campaign in three years and more than doubled their Atlantic 10 win total from the 2007 season. In addition, Clark’s 20 wins was the most by any first-year head coach at UD.