The 2012 season was one for the record books for the USF softball team. The ladies made it to their first WCWS appearance in program history and finished the year with a record of 50-14 as the team racked up the huge wins and went down as one of the most successful teams in USF athletics history.
The ladies had so many highlights this season, it is hard to keep track of them. They beat UF twice this season and also upset FSU and Michigan as the team made it a common occurance with the big upsets. The ladies made it to the regionals of the NCAA tournament and took the title in Gainesville and for the first time in program history, were able to host the Super Regionals here in Tampa and were able to beat Hofstra twice in front of record breaking crowds and advanced to the WCWS. The team battled but came up just a little short in a bid for the title but, it made its mark across the campus. The program had record crowds, more fans were talking about the team and the future is even brighter than before.
The team had two incredible strengths this season. The first was the power of the offense. Players such as Kafalas, Richardson, Medina, and others had record setting seasons as they run ruled opponents and got the win total way up. However, the real strength of the team was the pitching staff. Sara Nevins became a dominate force in her sophomore season, recording a perfect game and numerous no-hitters. Lindsey Richardson returned to glory and freshman Sam Greiner emerged on the scene as well. Let's see who won some of our rewards after recapping the season.
MVP reward - There were many players that racked up the numbers this season, but the real offensive MVP this season was senior outfielder Janine Richardson. Richardson showed power and speed this season in her final year with the Bulls. She batted .298 with 7 home runs, 9 doubles, drove in 29 RBIs and stole 13 bases. She is also being invited to try out for the national team, showing her skills could lead to the next level.
Cy Young - Is there any question here? The award goes to Miss Sara Nevins (no disrespect to Richardson and Greiner of course). Nevins capped off her sophomore season, being named 2nd team All American. She finished the regular season at 31-6 (1.03 ERA) and recorded 4 saves. She worked 245.2 innings during the regular season, allowing 163 hits, 61 walks, 323 strike outs and held opponents to a .184 batting average against her. Nevins continued to attack the strike zone with pure heat, but was also continued to develop her off speed pitches that had hitters guessing all season.
Rookie of the year - There were several freshman that made an impact this season, but the award was from RHP Sam Greiner. Greiner (got the first start of the season for the Bulls) finished the season at 10-4 (1.58 ERA) with 2 saves. She worked 97.1 innings, allowing 75 hits, 27 walks, and struck out 64 batters. She became a ground ball specialist and will be a key for the future of the program.
Surprise player of the year - The Bulls landed a great transfer last year in 3rd baseman Jessica Mouse. The senior transfer became a stabilizing force at third place and showcased her defense all season (FEED THE MOUSE). She was also an impact bat, batting .272 this season with 3 home runs, 3 doubles, 28 RBIs and recorded 9 steals on the year (also recorded the first hit in the WCWS).
What the team is losing for 2013 - The team is losing 5 key seniors from the 2012 squad that will be missed last year. Catcher Laura Fountain is leaving , along with outfielders Janine Richardson and Gina Kafalas, 2nd baseman Alexis Nowell, and 3rd baseman Jessica Mouse. All these senior played a key role to the success of the program, but the team has the depth needed to make another run next season.
What returns for 2013 - The Bulls lose 5 seniors, but so much is returning to the team in 2013. The pitching rotation returns Sara Nevins, Lindsey Richardson and Sam Greiner to the roster. The offense returns Kourtney Salvarola as short stop, Stephanie Medina at 1st base, Ashli and Courtney Goff in the outfield, designated player Kenshyra Jackson and D'anna Devine to name just a few to begin with.
Quick outlook for 2013 season - The team will be back in the playoff hunt again next season. USF returns all 3 starters that led the team. The offense will take a hit with 5 seniors leaving, but players like Medina, the Goff sisters, Jackson and others like Sydney Dinelli will all have their chance to play. Many young players got playing time this season which will help them into the future. The WCWS run the team had will also help their impact in recruiting as Coach Eriksen continues to build the team and moves the program to a higher level than ever.
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