George Washington University Athletics
GW Softball Begins Preparations for 2016 Season
1/13/2016 12:00:00 AM | Softball
GW Softball's First Day of 2016 Practice
WASHINGTON - The George Washington softball team began preparations for the 2016 season on Tuesday with the first practice of the New Year at the newly-renovated GW Softball Field on the Mount Vernon Campus.
"On the first day of practice we picked up where we left off in the fall," said sixth-year head coach Stacey Schramm. "Our players were responsible enough to put in the work over the winter break, understanding that they needed to put in the effort as individuals for the good of the whole team."
Taking advantage of the mild winter weather, the Colonials took to the outdoors for defensive work, as infielders and outfielders broke into small groups to complete a series of skill-sharpening drills. Batting practice began with fundamental tee progressions, working up to bunting and full speed hitting by the end of the session.
Pitchers and catchers took to the new bullpens for their first workout of 2016, focusing on sharpening accuracy and effectiveness of pitch spins on day one, looking to hit the ground running with just one month until opening day.
"There are no 'smoke and mirrors' about what this team wants and what they're committed to do to accomplish their goals," said Coach Schramm. "Our goal for this first week is to get outside on the field as much as possible and practice together as a team!"
Last season GW finished with an overall 25-23 record, reaching the 25-win plateau for the third time in program history. The squad returns six starting field players and three pitchers to the 2016 squad, while adding a trio of freshmen.
The Colonials open the 2016 season on Feb. 12, against Austin Peay at the Gardner-Webb Tournament. GW will host its first game on the new field on March 4, as the Buff and Blue host the three-day District Invite.
