2023-24 Softball Preseason Preview
Elgin, IL - It is year two for Head Coach Laura Starkey at the helm of the Judson Eagles Softball program. This year's focus is all about accountability.
In a competitive CCAC conference, and a spring break trip that includes 12 games in an eight day span, the grind of a spring season will have its challenges as they all do, but Coach Starkey's confidence is there that this squad will be ready. "Our goal is to compete to win while adjusting and improving every day," says Starkey.
To start their season, the Eagles will be featured at a couple of Dome tournaments in Rosemont, IL and Davenport, IA. Then, when the calendar flips to March, the team will travel down to sunny Florida for their annual spring break trip with games in Clermont and Kissimmee Florida. For Coach Starkey, the spring break trip is circled for many reasons. "Well it will be nice to be in the warm sunshine for one, but it is also a fun bonding experience for the players. This is a business trip, but it is also a great opportunity to build team chemistry while playing some great competition."
The Diamond Eagles will be led by senior Amelia Jimenez, senior Amaya Chavez, senior Sophie Schomer, and junior Braly Wiser. Those four will lead a balanced roster of returners and newcomers with high aspirations to compete for a spot in the conference tournament.
The conference will feature some tough ball games, including the final season featuring Roosevelt University, who makes the move to Division II next year. Says Coach Starkey, "We want to be in the top 6 at the end to compete for a championship, that is certainly goal number one."
Judson's offense projects to be led by Amelia Jimenez, Tatyana Chavez, Braly Wiser and Amaya Chavez. We expect them to bring tenacity and consistency to our lineup while anticipating great things from our newcomers as well. In the circle, captain Jimenez led the Eagles in innings pitched last season, and projects to do the same this year along with a great staff of pitchers to come along side of her, working together to lead the team to victory!
Getting one percent better everyday is the motto, and for the Eagles they hope to soar above the grind this spring. For JU, Opening Day is February 10th inside the Rosemont Dome against Concordia (MI) and Madonna.