Softball Bullpen Club Dinner a Hit
February 05, 2008 | Softball
Feb. 5, 2008
LOUISVILLE, Ky. - - The University of Louisville softball team held its inaugural Bullpen Club Dinner on Friday, Feb. 1 at the Louisville Marriott East. The dinner featured former UCLA coach and National Fastpitch Coaches Association Hall of Fame member Sue Enquist as the keynote speaker.
"What a special event for Louisville Softball!" said associate head coach Carol Bruggeman, who was instrumental in helping organize the event and arranging for Enquist to speak. "The Bullpen Club Dinner was one of the most outstanding events in the history of our program. From the magnitude of positive comments at the dinner to the dozens of emails and phone calls I've received in the past few days from people in attendance, everyone had a wonderful time. The Bullpen Club Dinner was a fantastic way to kick-off our 2008 season. Sue Enquist is one of the top inspirational speakers in the country and a legend in the sport of softball. We were honored to have her make a connection with our Louisville Softball program."
Over 150 guests attended the dinner, including players' families, Bullpen Club members, community supporters, former staff members and alumnae from nearly every graduating class.
Following dinner, the crowd was treated to a highlight video that included a montage of photos and footage from the current team and the 2007 BIG EAST championship season. After attending alumnae were recognized and honored, select members of the 2008 team introduced their teammates. Junior Kassie Stanfill brought the pitchers and catchers onstage, while senior first baseman Sarah Totten introduced the infielders and junior center fielder Kristi Cunningham acquainted everyone with the outfielders.
Head coach Sandy Pearsall received a standing ovation when Associate Athletic Director Julie Hermann brought her to the stage. Under Pearsall's guidance, the Cardinals have won three conference championships, made four straight NCAA appearances, had 40 players earn all-conference honors and seven all-region team members. Pearsall introduced and thanked her staff, third-year associate head coach Carol Bruggeman, and fifth-year assistant coach Karen Marr.
Former UCLA head coach Sue Enquist is one of the most successful softball coaches in history of the game. Coach Enquist won 11 national championships, coached 12 Olympians, and completed her softball coaching career as the winningest coach among all active coaches with a record of 887-175-1 (.835). Enquist drew upon her vast experiences in softball to issue a championship challenge to the team, as well as encouraged everyone in attendance to "prepare, love, and honor" the game.
"Sue Enquist was really inspirational and moving," said junior outfielder Brittney Counts. "She was very moving and sincere with her message and really spoke from the heart. The entire night was a great experience for all of us to be able in a room full of people who support and care for U of L softball."
The defending Big East tournament champion Cardinal softball team will open the 2008 season Feb. 8-10 at the Florida State Early Bird Tournament. The Cards return 12 letterwinners from last year's 37-25 campaign, including four all-conference team members. U of L will also host the 2008 BIG EAST Championship May 8-10 at Ulmer Stadium.
