JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — With preparation complete and readiness evident, the Edward Waters Head Softball Coach, Mike Ellison, emphasized the heightened stakes faced by his team.
"The stakes are definitely higher. The biggest reason is because we're the hunted, not the hunter. We're not sneaking up on anybody. We're getting everybody's best effort," Ellison said.
In their first season in the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference, the Edward Waters Softball team clinched the national title. Now, entering their second year within the conference, they aim to leverage the pressure of being targets as motivation for a back-to-back victory.
Senior second baseman and catcher, Katie Goodin, echoed this sentiment, expressing how the pressure drives the team's daily motivation. "It's driving us more and more each day. We come to practice more motivated than the day before," Goodin stated.
Reflecting on their unforgettable triumph in 2023, the Edward Waters Tigers now set their sights on securing another national title.
Brooke Rice, catcher, reminisced about the jubilant celebration following their victory. "We got an out, we all ran out on the field, iced out coach, went out to the outfield to the cameras and just all hugged each other. We were so happy," Rice recalled. "Hey, you win again, this is what you're going to get. Who wouldn't want bling?"
Mike Ellison attributed the Tigers' recent success to selflessness, noting their never-give-up attitude and relentless competitive spirit. "It's a never give up attitude. They'll compete every pitch, they'll compete every inning," Ellison remarked.
The team's chemistry, characterized by scrappiness and an insatiable hunger for success, has been a driving force behind their achievements. "We're scrappy. We want every out we can get. We're always diving and going all out," Goodin affirmed.
As the Tigers continue to pursue excellence, Goodin emphasized the importance of unity and growth. "Stick together, keep growing. We have yet to hit our peak which is super exciting to think about," she stated.
Fans can witness the Lady Tigers in action this Friday as they face Allen University in a doubleheader. The first game starts at 1 p.m., followed by the second game at 3 p.m.
For their full schedule, click HERE.