Eastern Kentucky University’s Softball Team is on a 16 game winning streak, after an impressive 5-0 weekend at the Black and Gold Invitational hosted by Alabama State, and two wins at home this past weekend.
What makes the streak even more impressive? Only two of those games were played at the Colonels' home park, Gertrude Hood Field. It's currently the longest streak in Division I softball.
“I’ve told them from the very beginning, I’m focusing on their energy, effort, and attitudes. If a streak happens and we maintain it, that’s awesome. But I’m focusing on if they’re out there having a good time,” said Colonels head coach Jane Worthington.
The 16 game streak shatters the record for the longest winning streak in school history. Worthington's Colonels are in the midst of a remarkable 20-2 season as they prepare for a midweek double header against Bethune-Cookman on Wednesday
“We just work hard. We have a good group, they’re cohesive, we’ve had a good culture for quite a few years, this is just what they do,” said Worthington.
EKU lost key players after last season, making this a younger team with four starting freshmen. But the Colonels relative youth have not let that get in their way, and the streak is due in no small part to the youngsters.
“They’ve been up to the challenge, they came in and started contributing right away to pick up where we left off,” Worthington said.
Without a specific vote for captains, the team is well-rounded with multiple natural leaders who step up to rally the team when needed, Worthington said.
Sammi Miller leads the way at the plate with a team-best .400 batting average, five doubles, two triples, 10 RBIs and five stolen bases (as of March 6).
Mollie Paulick continues her senior season after going 4-0 last weekend in the circle. Paulick was named OVC and Division I Softball Pitcher of the Week. The Centerville, Ohio native is 9-1 on the season with a 1.29 ERA.
For more information on the Lady Colonel’s Softball Team, visit https://ekusports.com/sports/softball.