By Elijah Alvarado, Sports Editor
Just like any other sport, softball can be competitive and requires full-force effort; however, nothing compares to the collegiate level. This is especially true in the Sunshine State Conference Division II.
The Saint Leo University Softball team is having a season that will go down in the books as history. On Mar. 28, the softball team set a record for the longest win streak in school history at 24, with the previous record of 23, set back in 2016.
Since then, the Lions have yet to lose and have now extended their streak to 34 consecutive wins and counting. When it comes to being successful in a game, it is important to think positively and treat every game the same.
“My mindset going into the game was just going against a faceless opponent. The record does not matter in that moment, and that’s not the focus going into the game,” said Sydney Cline, a junior majoring in Digital Communications and an outfielder for Saint Leo University Softball.
“The focus was we are 0-0, and we are going out there playing SLUSB softball,” added Cline.
When a season is going the right way, it is very easy to overthink it and get too confident, which can lead to a downturn in the season with poor performance; luckily, this team doesn’t have this problem.
“Also staying humble, having fun, and being great fun that we have the opportunity to do what we love,” stated Cline.
The Lions are having the best season yet, beyond the wins. According to the National Fastpitch Coaches Association (NFCA) Division II Top 25 Coaches Poll, Saint Leo Softball is ranked No. 2 in the nation, marking the highest ranking in program history.
Not only is this a feel-good moment for the University, but for those involved in making history.
“It just means the job isn’t done and there is a lot more to look forward to the longer the season goes,” said Cline
The Softball team is led by 14-year head coach, Alumni and former Saint Leo softball player, Erin Kinberger. For a team to have as much success as the Lions are having, it takes strong team chemistry.
“Our depth and sisterhood are what make this team so special. It’s one for all and all for one’. I’m proud of their love, support, and dedication to each other and our program,” said Kinberger.
Many people have something they live by, whether it’s a quote, core values, or anything that brings motivation. The Saint Leo softball coaching staff selects a hashtag or a focus key to push the team to reach their goals, and this season they picked #BetonSLU$B.
“You can’t spell SLUSB without us, and if we continue to put all chips down on US, I think this team can do some damage to whoever steps in front of us,” said Kinberger.
Beyond the win streak, the softball team is ranked No. 1 in Division II for the first time in program history. This milestone has a very positive impact on the athletics department on campus, but the team remains focused on continuing their mission.
“Honestly, we don’t really pay attention or put too much value in those external aspects, records stats, rankings. We stay focused on our standards and each other; we focus on executing our processes,” stated Kinberger.
