With a new season on the way, the anticipation for the softball and baseball teams at UNC is higher than ever. After the softball team ended the year with a 27-26 record and the baseball team ended with a 16-38-1 record, both squads have been grinding in the offseason, and the energy is high as they prepare to take the field.
The offseason has been grueling but productive for the softball team, with relentless batting practice, defensive drills and conditioning. Emma Osborne, a redshirt sophomore outfielder on the softball team, is eager to get into the season and cannot wait to see how the hard work will pay off in the next five months.
“We've been putting in tons of work at the batting cages every day," Osborne said. "Working on spin and speed, and we've been doing tons of workouts on the turf, working on our offense, working on communication, working on defense and base running so we've been excited."
The team kicked off its season on Feb. 6 in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, where they faced the Florida State Seminoles. After ending the '23 and '24 seasons as conference champions along with reaching the NCAA Regional Tournament, playing in Mexico is a fitting stage for a squad with its sights set on a three-peat as conference champions. The first home game of the year was the Colorado Classic DI Tournament on Mar. 1.
More than just skill, the team is built on chemistry and a shared love for the game. Fans can expect to see a squad that plays with heart and hustle.
“We just want people to come out and see us working hard and showing everyone," Osborne said. "We just love it here and love our team."
On the baseball side, sophomore shortstop, Brandon Sanchez, shares similar excitement. After a rough start to the season last year, the team still ended with a championship appearance and the team is focused on taking the next step.
“I’m excited, full of energy," Sanchez said. "We’re building momentum into our future."
With fresh motivation, the team is embracing the grind, practicing in the snow and putting in the work wherever they can. Sanchez wants as many students as possible to show up to the games and promises an electrifying season.
“We are going to bring energy," Sanchez said. "We are going to be something to watch here in Greeley. We just want to do good for the team and at the university."
With a roster packed with talent, dedication and a hunger for success, both programs are ready to make waves this season. If all goes according to plan, UNC could be celebrating the first three-peat in softball program history and the 11th appearance for the baseball program at the NCAA College World Series.
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