UCSD’s 2004 softball season begins Jan. 31, and in spite of the loss of a graduated senior and a couple nonreturners, the team is ready and waiting.
“”We started practicing on Jan. 5, and we’ve been practicing very hard,”” Triton head coach Patti Gerckens said. “”The girls are starting to get to know each other, and even though we’re a ways from where we need to be, we’re right on track to get there.””
Former catcher Kristin Hunstad, who graduated last year, will be missed behind the plate, but last year’s first baseman, junior Jamie Hurst, will take over Hunstad’s duties .
The Tritons’ pitching staff includes returning senior Jodie Bland, freshman Tina Rowe and transfer student Kelley Bryant.
The remaining positions are not yet solidified due to injuries and a need to wait and see how the new players develop.
“”We’re very optimistic about this year; the girls can’t wait for the season to start,”” Gerckens said.
UCSD will open the season with the longest homestand that the team will play all year. The Tritons will play their first eight games at Triton Softball Stadium, starting off with a game against California Baptist on Jan. 31 at noon.
