Southern Connecticut State University Softball Team

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The Southern Connecticut State University (SCSU) softball team has been a staple of the university's athletic department for decades, providing students with a platform to compete at the highest level while pursuing their academic goals. As a Division II institution, the Owls have consistently demonstrated their prowess on the field, showcasing their skills against top-tier opponents from across the country.

History of the SCSU Softball Team

Established in the early 1970s, the SCSU softball team has undergone significant transformations over the years, with notable achievements and milestones that have contributed to the program's growth and success. From its early days as a club sport to its current status as a NCAA Division II competitor, the team has consistently demonstrated its commitment to excellence, both on and off the field.

Conference Affiliations and Championships

The SCSU softball team has been a member of the Northeast-10 Conference (NE10) since 2000, competing against top-ranked teams from across the region. Throughout its tenure in the NE10, the Owls have claimed several conference championships, including regular season titles and tournament crowns.

Notable Players and Coaches

The SCSU softball team has produced several notable players and coaches throughout its history, many of whom have gone on to achieve great success at the collegiate, professional, and international levels.

Players

Some notable players who have donned the Owls' uniform include:

• Stephanie Sullivan: A four-time All-American and two-time NE10 Player of the Year, Sullivan is widely regarded as one of the greatest players in SCSU softball history.
• Jessica Seaver: A three-time All-NE10 selection and 2015 NE10 Championship MVP, Seaver is one of the most decorated players in program history.
• Lauren Esposito: A 2018 All-NE10 selection and NFCA All-Region honoree, Esposito has been a key contributor to the Owls' success in recent years.

Coaches

The Owls have been led by several accomplished coaches throughout their history, including:

• Jill Criscuolo: A 2015 NE10 Coach of the Year recipient, Criscuolo has been instrumental in guiding the Owls to numerous conference championships and NCAA tournament appearances.
• Lisa Barbaro: A 2007 NE10 Coach of the Year recipient, Barbaro has been a key figure in the development of the SCSU softball program, leading the Owls to several conference titles and NCAA tournament berths.

Facilities and Equipment

The SCSU softball team competes at Pelz Field, a state-of-the-art facility that has undergone significant renovations in recent years. The field features a natural grass playing surface, dugouts, and a press box, providing an ideal setting for both home games and tournaments.

Training and Support Staff

The Owls have access to a range of support staff, including:

• Athletic trainers: Providing medical support and care to ensure the health and well-being of student-athletes.
• Strength and conditioning coaches: Developing and implementing training programs to enhance player performance and reduce injury risk.
• Sports information directors: Handling media relations, statistics, and game day operations.

Academic Excellence

The SCSU softball team has consistently demonstrated a commitment to academic excellence, with numerous student-athletes earning recognition for their academic achievements.

Academic Awards and Honors

Some notable academic awards and honors received by SCSU softball student-athletes include:

• NE10 Academic All-Conference: Recognizing student-athletes who have achieved a minimum GPA of 3.0 and participated in a conference-sponsored sport.
• NFCA All-Academic Team: Honoring teams that have achieved a minimum GPA of 3.0 and participated in a collegiate softball program.

Community Engagement

The SCSU softball team is committed to giving back to the community, participating in various outreach and service programs throughout the year.

Community Outreach Programs

Some notable community outreach programs supported by the Owls include:

• Youth softball clinics: Providing instruction and mentorship to young players from across the region.
• Charity games: Participating in fundraising games and events to support local organizations and causes.

Gallery of Southern Connecticut State University Softball