Softball: RedHawks Tabbed as TranSouth Preseason No. 1
PULASKI, Tenn. (1/27) - The Martin Methodist College Softball team was picked No. 1 in the 2010 Preseason Coaches Poll. The RedHawk softball program is coming off of a great 2009 campaign, concluding the season at the NAIA Softball National Tournament as one of the Elite Eight teams in the nation and with a top 10 ranking.
Union University is in the No. 2 spot in the preseason poll, followed by Bethel University at No. 3 and Freed-Hardeman University is rounding out the top four. Trevecca Nazarene University was chosen No. 5, Lyon College No. 6, Cumberland was picked No. 7 and Mid-Continent is in the No. 8 position. These eight teams will be fighting for the 2010 TranSouth Athletic Conference Regular Season and Tournament Championships.
With the loss of the five senior leaders from the 2009 Martin Methodist squad the returning players and new comers have worked hard in the off-season to fill those big shoes. The dedication of this year’s team is paying off and things are starting to take form.
With the addition of nine new players, six of which are true freshman the RedHawks will be young this season. The three returning seniors have stepped up to the challenge of leading this fresh squad. A lot of emphasis will be placed on 2009 TranSouth New-Comer of the Year, catcher Maria Robinson behind the plate as the commander on the field. Nicole Curtis, two time 2009 TranSouth pitcher of the week, will be looked to as a mentor for the new members of the pitching staff. Second baseman Nicole Velez also a First Team All-Conference selection will be the anchor for the infield.
Two junior college transfers Outfielder Karina de Los Santos (Miami Dade Community College) and infielder Misti Alston from Truitt-McConnell College, coupled with returning juniors Nicole McWhorter (shortstop) and Carrie Morris (1st base) will be looked upon to make strong impacts on the season.
Sophomores Tiffany McCormick (outfield) Samantha Queen (designated player) and 2009 TranSouth Freshman of the year Chrissy Worth (pitcher) will be more seasoned now and will take on additional leadership roles while continuing to grow as well rounded players.
The talented group of freshman have done a great job coming in ready and willing to work hard as they look to make their own name as a Martin Methodist College softball player.
With the opening of the 2010 season less than a month away and the tough TranSouth Athletic Conference awaiting; the team is training hard to prepare for their first test February 17th at home against NCAA Division III Huntingdon College, Coach Brandie Paul’s alma mater.