Softball | 3/3/2023 2:57:00 PM
By Paul Suellentrop
Wichita State softball will play at Wilkins Stadium this weekend and that statement takes on more meaning than in previous seasons.
The Shockers always enjoy playing at home and attendance increased in recent years as the program stacks NCAA regional bids and plays an exciting, power-hitting style. This season is different, because the Shockers play 27 home games, and they are excited about the potential to draw more attention and create more of an atmosphere. In 2022, the Shockers played 11 games at home.
"It's kind of shifting to a softball school," shortstop
Sydney McKinney said. "We're all pumped. Our fan base is growing."
The Shockers, ranked No. 25 in the NFCA poll, are also pumped to see Wilkins Stadium change because of their recent success. Three outfield decks are new since last season, giving the stadium four total. Adding temporary bleachers for big games is a consideration.
The third-base dugout, used by visitors, is complete. New batting cages are in use next to the stadium. Artificial turf is scheduled for this summer.
In January, the university announce a
facility master plan for softball that starts with $7.3-million for a new team complex and indoor facility.
Season tickets are up to 259, an increase of 77 percent.
"it's cool to see the community get behind this team," coach
Kristi Bredbenner said. "We hope they're loud and rowdy."
Games against No. 1 Oklahoma, No. 4 Oklahoma State, No. 9 Arkansas and No. 18 Stanford will give fans a look at the nation's top teams. Nebraska is receiving top 25 votes. USF is a regular in NCAA play and Kansas and Missouri State also visit.
The Shockers noticed the crowds last season, even with the scarcity of home dates. This season offers the potential for more, especially if the weather cooperates.
"The atmosphere last year was so fun," senior
Zoe Jones said. "I think that's what I'm really looking forward to the most, having all our fans out."
The Shockers (12-3) play Western Illinois and Bradley in the Black & Yellow Challenge on Saturday (2:15, 4:30 p.m.) and Sunday (1:15, 3:30 p.m.). Stanford visits on Thursday (3 p.m.)
Wichita State rose into the rankings powered by a seven-game win streak. McKinney is again putting up amazing numbers – a .708 batting average with four doubles, two triples and two home runs. In 15 games, she has six walks and one strikeout.
The pitching staff, an area of uncertainty before the season, is performing well with a 2.25 ERA, nine complete games and five shutouts. The 2022 Shockers compiled five shutouts all season. Junior transfer
Lauren Howell, sophomore
Alison Cooper, who threw a no-hitter against San Diego, and freshman
Alex Aguilar are mixing and matching their way to success so far.
"It's been awesome to see Lauren get confidence back in the circle," Bredbenner said. "We've seen her really develop over these last couple weeks.
Alex Aguilar, our freshman, is starting to really understand how to pitch, how to pitch to high-level athletes."
Paul Suellentrop writes about Wichita State athletics for university Strategic Communications. Story suggestion? Contact him at paul.suellentrop@wichita.edu.
