The California Lutheran University (CLU) baseball team, also known as the Kingsmen, is a collegiate baseball team that competes in the Southern California Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SCIAC) of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division III. The team has a rich history of success, with multiple conference championships and postseason appearances.
Early Years and History
The CLU baseball team was established in 1963, just a year after the university was founded. The team quickly gained recognition as a competitive force in Southern California, winning its first SCIAC championship in 1967. Over the years, the Kingsmen have continued to experience success, with multiple conference championships and postseason appearances.
Conference and Postseason Success
The CLU baseball team has won numerous conference championships, including 12 SCIAC titles. The team has also appeared in several postseason tournaments, including the NCAA Division III Baseball Championship, where they have finished as high as third place. In recent years, the Kingsmen have continued to be a dominant force in the SCIAC, winning conference championships in 2014, 2017, and 2019.
Notable Players and Coaches
The CLU baseball team has produced several notable players and coaches over the years. One of the most successful players in program history is pitcher Eric Winter, who was drafted by the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2011. Another notable player is outfielder Jake Petersen, who was named the SCIAC Player of the Year in 2017. The team has also been led by several successful coaches, including Marty Slimak, who led the team to multiple conference championships and postseason appearances.
Facilities and Equipment
The CLU baseball team plays its home games at Ullman Stadium, a state-of-the-art facility that features a natural grass playing surface and a seating capacity of over 1,000. The team also has access to a state-of-the-art training facility, which includes a weight room, batting cages, and a pitching area. The team's equipment is provided by several top brands, including Rawlings and Louisville Slugger.
Recruitment and Scholarships
The CLU baseball team is committed to recruiting top talent from across the country. The team offers several scholarships to prospective players, including the CLU Baseball Scholarship and the NCAA Division III Baseball Scholarship. Prospective players can apply for these scholarships by submitting their athletic and academic credentials to the team's coaching staff.
Community Involvement
The CLU baseball team is committed to giving back to the local community. The team participates in several community outreach programs, including the CLU Baseball Clinic, which provides instruction to local youth players. The team also partners with several local organizations, including the Boys and Girls Club of Ventura County.
Conclusion
The California Lutheran University baseball team is a highly competitive program with a rich history of success. With multiple conference championships and postseason appearances, the team is a force to be reckoned with in the SCIAC. The team's commitment to recruitment, community involvement, and academic excellence makes it an attractive option for prospective players. Whether you're a fan, a player, or just a supporter of the team, the CLU baseball team is definitely worth watching.
Gallery of CLU Baseball
Frequently Asked Questions
What conference does the CLU baseball team compete in?
+The CLU baseball team competes in the Southern California Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SCIAC) of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division III.
What is the name of the CLU baseball team's home stadium?
+The CLU baseball team plays its home games at Ullman Stadium.
Does the CLU baseball team offer scholarships?
+Yes, the CLU baseball team offers several scholarships to prospective players, including the CLU Baseball Scholarship and the NCAA Division III Baseball Scholarship.