Friends University, a private Christian university located in Wichita, Kansas, has a rich athletic history, and its softball team, the Falcons, is no exception. The team has been a part of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) and has competed in the Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference (KCAC) since 1997. In this article, we will delve into the world of Friends University Falcons softball, exploring the team's history, achievements, and what makes them a force to be reckoned with in the NAIA.
The Early Years
The Friends University Falcons softball team was established in the early 1980s, and since then, the team has undergone significant transformations. In the early years, the team struggled to find its footing, but with the hiring of new coaches and the recruitment of talented players, the team began to show promise. The Falcons' first conference championship came in 1995, and this marked the beginning of a successful era for the team.
Achievements and Accolades
The Friends University Falcons softball team has achieved numerous accolades throughout its history. Some notable achievements include:
- 7 KCAC Conference Championships
- 5 NAIA National Tournament appearances
- 2 NAIA Region IV Championships
The team has also produced several talented players who have gone on to achieve great things in their softball careers. Some notable alumni include:
- Jenny Gorges, who played for the Falcons from 2001-2004 and was a 2-time NAIA All-American
- Ashley Seidel, who played for the Falcons from 2007-2010 and was a 3-time KCAC Player of the Year
Coaching Staff
The Falcons' coaching staff is led by Head Coach, Caleb Miles. Coach Miles has been at the helm of the program since 2015 and has led the team to 2 KCAC Conference Championships. He is assisted by a talented group of coaches, including Pitching Coach, Rachel Hardy, and Assistant Coach, Taylor Rodriguez.
Home Field
The Falcons play their home games at the Friends University Softball Field, located on the university's campus. The field has undergone several renovations over the years and features a state-of-the-art playing surface, seating for over 200 spectators, and a concession stand.
Fan Engagement
The Falcons have a dedicated fan base, and the team encourages fans to get involved in various ways. The team's social media accounts are active, and fans can stay up-to-date on the latest news, scores, and highlights. The team also offers several promotions and giveaways throughout the season, including "Spirit Night" and "Youth Softball Night."
Future Prospects
As the Falcons look to the future, they are focused on building a strong team culture and developing talented young players. The team is committed to excellence, both on and off the field, and is dedicated to making a positive impact in the community.
Recruitment
The Falcons are always looking for talented young players to join their roster. The team's coaching staff attends numerous recruiting events throughout the year, and prospective players can contact the coaches directly to inquire about the recruitment process.
Gallery of Friends University Falcons Softball Team
What is the Friends University Falcons softball team's conference affiliation?
+The Friends University Falcons softball team is affiliated with the Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference (KCAC).
How many NAIA National Tournament appearances has the team made?
+The Friends University Falcons softball team has made 5 NAIA National Tournament appearances.
Who is the current head coach of the Friends University Falcons softball team?
+The current head coach of the Friends University Falcons softball team is Caleb Miles.
We hope you've enjoyed this in-depth look at the Friends University Falcons softball team. Whether you're a die-hard fan or just discovering the team, we encourage you to stay up-to-date on the latest news and scores. Don't forget to share your thoughts and opinions in the comments section below!