COUGER—Abilene’s Alise Murray signs a letter of intent to attend and play softball at Colorado Christian University next season. She is seated with her mother Kari Porter-Murray (left) and sister Brie Murray. Standing are Abilene head coach Don Nebelsick (left) and her dad Pat Murray. (Photo by Tim Horan)
Last spring, the program’s first coaches were hired, months later the first players on the roster.
Next fall Abilene’s Alise Murray will be in a uniform as she signed a letter of intent to attend the school and play softball.
First meetings, first practices, first uniforms – all firsts that were cherished by a group thrilled to be part of something special at CCU.
Last month, more firsts for the records as Colorado Christian traveled to Greeley, Colo., to compete against DI opponents Northern Colorado and Colorado State.
Excitement swelled throughout the week, finally overflowing when the group stepped onto the field at UNC to play what would certainly be a memorable game. First pitch – Genevieve Reyna. First hit - Melanie Lusi. Each of Sunday’s moments was special, shared by a special group of players, coaches and their fans.
“We were so excited to get on the field for the first time,” remarked head coach Daven Bond. “It was a beautiful day for softball and the opportunity to play two NCAA Division I softball programs in one day was a dream start for our program. The girls played well the entire day and I was certainly pleased with the effort. We know we have a lot to work on, but the girls are encouraged and excited to see the progress.
“With a new program, you never truly know what you have until you take the field for the first time,” he added. “After 14 innings of ball, we are definitely excited to get to work, with the goal of making an impact on the RMAC in 2012.”
CU will continue their fall ball schedule, with practices and more contests scheduled. The first official game for the group is scheduled for February 10 at Eckerd College in Florida. By www.ccucougars.com.