University of the Cumberlands 2008-2009 Softball Preview

The University of the Cumberlands Softball team directs its attention towards preparation and hard work for the upcoming season. Seventeen newcomers add to the roster, bringing the Patriots a wide range of positions, all anxious to contribute their talents to the team. Last season, the Patriots softball team accumulated a record of 21-20 in season play and a conference record of 10-8, finishing third in the Mid-South Conference. Although the girls improved from the previous record of 24-31 in 2007, their mindset is to always strive for better.

The 2009 season will certainly be a rebuilding one. The team lost five key starters due to graduation last year. These ladies include Marie Cordero (London, KY), Whitney Piar (Lancaster, OH), Whitney Kirby (Franklin, OH), Tiffany Meadors (Lancaster, KY), and Jessica Taulbee (Greenville, SC). Piar led the team in pitching, and was honored as the Mid-South Conference Pitcher of the Year. In her senior year, Piar went 12-7 on the mound, pitching 130.2 innings striking out 181 batters. She also recorded five shut outs. Cordero added to the lineup, contributing her catching abilities behind the plate throughout her collegiate career. Kirby held the position of 1st base since her arrival in 2006, transferring from Cedarville University in Ohio her sophomore year. She was also recognized as Mid-South All Conference Honorable Mention. Tiffany Meadors was an outstanding utility player, playing multiple positions including pitcher, infield and outfield, and she was awarded the honor of the MSC Softball Champion of Character. Jessica Taulbee served as the team’s second baseman since transferring in her sophomore year from Erskine College in South Carolina.

The team will be filling in these positions with returners and newcomers, all eager to contribute their widespread talents. There are several players in every class that are expected to have a large impact. From the seniors, Samantha Kooch (Knoxville, TN) and Brittany Turner (London, KY) are expected to be leaders for the underclassmen on and off the field. Last season, Kooch was awarded MSC All Conference and Academic All-Conference. Kooch played in a total of 39 games last season recording 20 runs, 12 doubles, one triple, two homeruns, and 17 RBIs. Turner, who also posted a congratulatory MSC Honorable Mention, serves as the team’s catcher and a strong batter. She competed in 29 games in ‘08 accumulating 11 runs, one double, five homeruns, and 20 RBIs.

Several underclassmen are expected to contribute to the team’s success this year. Returning juniors include Fahlin Pulliam (Hawesville, KY), Mindy Breitholle (Fairfield, OH) and Lacy Walters (Williamstown, KY).

From the sophomore class, Hollie Byrum (Franklin, OH), and Kara Jesse (Bagdad, KY), who both saw playing time in the middle infield, are expected to come in once again and make an immediate impact to the team this year.

Key newcomers include freshmen Angela Steuer (Miamisburg, OH), Erin Sears (Williamsburg, KY), and Lindsey Meadors (Lancaster, KY). Steuer will be a great addition as a pitcher, Sears will fit in perfectly in the outfield, and Meadors can play the corners of the infield. Other freshmen to keep a watchful eye on include Emily McIntire (Bellbrook, OH), Ashely Wampler (London, KY), Kirby Soles (Corbin, KY), Asha Fox (Fairfield, OH), and Carrie Cobb (London, KY).

The ladies’ opening day of competition is right around the corner. The Patriots will travel to Harrogate, TN, where their DII rival Lincoln Memorial University will host a double header on February 14 th beginning at 2pm.

[2008 Season Preview] [2007 Season Preview] [2006 Season Preview] [2005 Season Preview]