AU softball opens season with home doubleheader against Catawba

By Britt Kelly | Sports writer

The Augusta University softball team is back in action and will open its season this Saturday, Feb. 4, at home against Catawba College and Sunday, Feb. 5, on the road at Francis Marion University.

After a 16-28 season last year, the Jaguars are excited to move forward. Lauren Barrett, a senior outfielder from Jefferson, talked about her anticipation for the season-opening weekend.

“We’re excited for sure,” said Barrett. “We have a lot of talent and we’re looking forward to putting it to use. The team as a whole has good vibes, and we all work really well together, so finally getting to see it in action will be really exciting.”

The team’s starting pitchers will be Ansley Gibson, a freshman from Evans, and Alissa Bolinger, a junior transfer from Ave Maria University. This duo will look to lead the Jaguars to a successful season.

Shelbie Summerlin, a junior infielder from Dallas (Ga.), talked about what the team is most excited for in the season.

“We’re a special group this year,” said Summerlin. “I think this year everyone brings something to the table. Everyone’s selfless and hardworking. They go all out and lay it all out on the field.”

Summerlin says the camaraderie on this year’s team will help motivate the Jaguars to perform this season.

“Our returners help guide our freshmen and transfers and make them feel apart of the family, because if we don’t have that bond, then everything would just fall apart,” she said.

Lauren Evens, a sophomore utility player from Auburn (Ga.), was asked about how the team is embracing the underdog mentality and how the team is going to stay motivated throughout the year.

“I feel like some people have already counted us out,” said Evens. “I’d say every player on the team has a chip on their shoulder, especially the returners after what we went through last year.”

Evens said the preseason predictions for the Peach Belt Conference has helped motivate the Jaguars.

“Being ranked last in the preseason polls just adds fuel to our fire,” she said. “We’re hungry and want to compete for a PBC title. I think as long as we play for each other we will get to where we want to be,” said Evens.

The Jaguars will open the season with Catawba at 1 p.m. Saturday, followed by the second game at 3. Sunday’s doubleheader at FMU will also begin at 1 p.m. with game two at 3.

Contact Britt Kelly at bkelly1@augusta.edu.