On Feb. 3-5, Union’s softball team played in Youngsville, La., at the Mardi Gras Invitational against five non-conference schools to open their 2023 spring season.
The team dropped all five games, losing to Southern Arkansas University, Drury University, Oklahoma Baptist University, Texas A&M University–Kingsville, and Harding University.
“We are building a culture of grace and accountability,” said head coach Sydney Sturner. “I know that they are going to make mistakes. I have been in their shoes, but how we respond is what will set us apart.”
Coach Sturner was promoted from assistant coach to interim head coach during the summer of 2022 after playing an instrumental role in returning the Union softball team to the GSC Tournament in 2022 for the first time since 2019.
The team is composed primarily of freshmen and sophomores, making this season foundational for the continued growth of the program.
“Having such a young group of girls is a unique experience because there is going to be so much growth with this team on and off the field,” said outfielder and junior biology major Hailey Sipes. “I am most excited to see that growth and to win some ball games!”
A younger team provides the opportunity to establish a solid culture for the years to come. The coaching staff is viewing it as a strength.
“The age of the team brings no major concerns, just helping the freshman with the mental transition into college sports,” Sturner said. “Nerves are natural and because you care. I will not add worldly pressure but bring a spirit of encouragement.”
The team is united by the coaches leadership to pursue excellence in the game and beyond to the deeper well-being of the team. They have been training hard in weight room sessions and practices.
“Both of our coaches are very supportive and encouraging throughout the whole experience of practices, weight training and games” Sipes said. “They looked at the positives of this weekend’s results and encouraged us with the good while still letting us know what to we needed to work on.”
The Lady Bulldogs’ next games will take place Feb. 10-12 in Albertville, Ala., at the Charger Chillout. Home games will begin on Feb. 15th at 2:00 p.m. against Ouachita Baptist University at the Fesmire Softball Field.