Softball Set to Begin 2014 Season
After six consecutive years in the top 25, head coach Devon Thomas knows the challenges that each year brings to remain a top program in the NAIA. Graduating five players, including two All-Americans and four All-Conference selections, from last year's #20 NAIA ranked squad, the Brenau Golden Tigers softball team looks to continue their winning ways with young team.
Leading the way for the Golden Tigers are seniors Katie Bolin (Danielsville, Ga.) and Jenny Shepherd (Martinez, Ga.). Bolin, a four year starter, provides leadership behind the plate, while Shepherd, a 2013 SSAC All-Conference selection, will anchor the pitching staff.
Two juniors, Madison Strickland (Gainesville, Ga.) and newcomer Jenny Willis, (Auburn, Ga.) will provide depth and experience in the infield and on the mound respectively.
A talented sophomore class will be asked to carry a large responsibility for the Golden Tigers. Liz Schneider (Smyrna, Ga.), who was named as an NAIA All-American and SSAC East Division Freshman of the Year in her first season, will hit in the middle of the order, while Katie Cole (Tupelo, Miss.) will look to build off of her strong first season by providing power and pitching.
Six other sophomores will provide versatility to the team as infielders Andrea Bentley (Augusta, Ga.), Landon Farrow (Martin, Ga.), Cheyenne Marsh (Richmond Hill, Ga.) and Annie Ranus (Auburn, Ga.), pitcher Taylor Causey (Covington, Ga.) and outfielder/catcher Caitlyn Glenn (Watkinsville, Ga.) will each be asked to contribute.
Three newcomers- Victoria Fontana, Allison Gunn and MacKenzie Oliver- will also provide talent to the already deep team. Fontana, an outstanding athlete, will contribute in the outfield, while Gunn and Oliver, will provide speed on the base paths.
In addition to the always tough SSAC schedule, the Golden Tigers play a rigorous non-conference schedule, facing several NCAA Division I and II, plus other NAIA nationally ranked teams.
Brenau opens the season on February 7th at the Hamp Jordan Classic versus Fayetteville (N.C.) State University.