Softball picked to win ASC East in preseason polls

The University softball team opens its season Jan. 19, clearing last year’s record of 38-9 off the books.

Last season, the Patriots ended with a conference record of 20-4 and the American Southwest Conference East Division title for the first time in the University’s history.

After making it through the ASC tournament, the Patriots fell short of the regional title, ending their post-season play.

Head coach Mike Reed has high expectations as in previous years, a trip to the national tournament.

“Our team is more focused on the day-to-day process of winning the right way,” Reed said. “If we do that, the wins will come.”

The Patriots have more utility players than ever, along with 10 returners this season including some that went to the World Series two years ago.
“One of our biggest strengths is all of the players that can fill multiple positions,” Reed said.

The Patriots have three returning seniors who were named First Team All-Conference last year: Brittanni Hanna, Stacy Shepherd and Whitney Wyly.

“From the seniors all the way down to the freshmen, everyone has an invested interest in the team and an equal share in the leadership and roles of winning,” Wyly said.

D3softball.com once again picked the Patriots to win the east- division title.

The 2011 NFCA Division III Top 25 Poll tabbed the Patriots  11th in the nation.

Home games will dominate this season’s schedule.

The Patriots will open away against Mary Hardin-Baylor, followed by the first home game the 25th against Trinity (Tex).