Fastpitch Opens Fall Ball Sunday, Sept. 16 at 10:00 AM Against Osceola Overdrive

September 14, 2012

SF FASTPITCH – 9/14/2012

Gainesville, FL – Coach Chris Ahern and the Santa Fe Saints open up their fall 2012 scrimmage schedule on Sunday, September 16 against travel ball team Osceola Overdrive at 10:00 AM at SF Field.

The Saints return four players from last year's FCSAA Atlantic District runner-up team. All-State first baseman and pitcher Karla Claudio leads a talented, albeit small group of sophomores. Catcher Layne McDermond, outfielder Paige Sandiford and centerfielder Aileen Fiallo join Claudio as veteran leaders for 2012-13.

"We are looking to our sophomores to help lead the team and bring their experience to the table," said Ahern. "The team is anxious to get on the field, even though we've had a lot of 'rain out' practices, so they can start putting it together. The coaching staff is excited at their enthusiasm and level of play, and looking forward to working through the fall to get better, and ready for the spring."

Santa Fe will take on a challenging fall schedule, including four games against the University of Florida, two against the University of North Florida and one against the University of South Florida, all coming on the road.

Seventeen freshman join the Saints and will be put to the test right away as they face top NCAA Division I talent throughout the fall. Coach Ahern believes the newcomers are up for the task.

"Although our team is very young this year, there are quite a few highly talented athletes who have come in and who can do multiple things," said Ahern. "Right now we have a few players "sidelined" but we are working toward getting everyone healthy – one day at a time."

For complete schedules and more information on Saints Fastpitch, please visit santafesaints.com. To see game photos and other updates, follow Santa Fe College Athletics on Facebook.

-30-