KU Softball Back in Action
LAWRENCE, Kan. – Excitement and invigorated energy can be felt around the University of Kansas campus as the new school year begins. The Jayhawk softball team is feeling the enthusiasm and hit the ground running to prepare for the 2014 season on Monday.
“We normally give them a week to settle in, but this year we are so excited and going to jump right in the first week,” said head coach Megan Smith. “It’s always such an exciting time when they are first getting back. We get to see them all together for the first time, with the seven newcomers.”
The Jayhawks were welcomed back to campus and to the new school year with a week full of meetings and events to get ready for the upcoming season. Among the events to kick off the year were traditions night, a team dinner, equipment pick up and a team meeting.
“The new players have a lot of fun picking up their gear for the first time,” Smith said. “It finally sinks in a little bit that they are here and that is probably the most fun. Our team meeting will lay out the ground work and our expectations (for the season). I enjoy doing that and it helps get the team motivated.”
The fall semester started Monday and on Tuesday KU begins individual workouts to start prepping for the 2014 season.
“Our first week of individuals is themed liked basic training,” explained Smith. “It’s going to be a tough and challenging week, but It’s going to be fun to see them competing with their teammates.”
Kansas returns 11 players from the 2013-record breaking roster. Last season, the Jayhawks led the NCAA in hitting, set a new Big 12 batting average and earned their first win over a No. 1-ranked opponent. This year, KU welcomes seven newcomers to the squad including a transfer and six freshmen.
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