Softball | 2/13/2025 3:39:00 PM
DENTON, Texas (Feb. 13, 2025) - As the 2025 softball season gets off to a strong start for the Pioneers, the Texas Woman's softball team is ready to take on competition with a renewed sense of focus and determination. With conference play beginning this Friday against Sul Ross and continuing Sunday against UTPB, the Pioneers are eager to make a strong statement in the Lone Star Conference.
For junior transfer Riley Todd, the offseason was dedicated to establishing communication and camaraderie among teammates.
"Our main focus was learning how to communicate on the field and turning a team into a family," Todd explained. This bond is expected to play a crucial role in the team's success as they prepare to perform under pressure in the coming weeks.
Todd has set a personal goal of stealing 30 bases this season. As a team, they aim for a top-5 finish in conference play, along with hitting at least 15 home runs. Todd is particularly excited about facing defending champion UT Tyler, a team known for its competitiveness.
"I think our team will open eyes this season and prove a lot of people wrong," Todd stated.
Vivica Hernandez echoed the emphasis on hard work and consistency during the offseason. With many new faces joining the roster, the team prioritized outworking their opponents on both offense and defense.
"We wanted every player to be fully committed to putting in the effort, whether that was in practice, during weights, or even working on drills," Hernandez said. This drive to outwork the competition will be essential as the Pioneers navigate a challenging conference schedule.
Hernandez's personal goal is to make her final season memorable and impactful, while also contributing to the team's success. She aims to earn Player of the Week and Hitter of the Week honors, along with making the All-Conference team. In terms of team goals, Hernandez is focused on maintaining consistent hitting and strong defense.
"The ultimate team goal is for all of us to buy into the season, work together, and make it to the top 5 in our conference," she explained.
Like her teammates, Hernandez is excited to compete against nationally ranked teams such as UT Tyler and West Texas A&M. After a strong showing in their season opener, she is confident in the team's ability to compete at a high level.
Lizzie Smith shared a similar sentiment regarding hard work and team culture. She views the motto "Handle Hard Better" (HHB) as a symbol of resilience and determination in the face of adversity.
"No matter the obstacle, you face it head-on and find a way to beat it," Smith explained. She looks forward to contributing offensively this season, with a personal goal of making a meaningful impact at the plate.
Sophomore Marissa Espinoza emphasized the importance of trust and unity within the team.
"Our team has a goal this season of finishing in the top 5 in conference," Espinoza stated. "It's going to take a lot of work and focus so we can see little growth every day." After a dedicated offseason, she is eager to see how the Pioneers measure up against top-tier competition. Espinoza strongly resonates with HHB, viewing it as a reminder to embrace failure with maturity and resilience, which she believes will be key to the team's success in 2025.
With a roster full of committed players focused on personal and collective growth, the Pioneers are ready to take the field and compete in the LSC. Their motto, "Handle Hard Better," reflects their mindset for the upcoming season—facing adversity head-on, staying focused, and working tirelessly toward their goals.
As conference play begins, the Pioneers are confident that their hard work will pay off and elevate them to new heights.
-PIONEERS-
