HELENA, Mont. -- The Carroll College Fighting Saints softball team's 2019 campaign begins down in the Golden State this weekend.
The Saints (RV) are set to compete in the NAIA So Cal Classic, playing seven games over three days in Lake Elsinore, California.
"It will be a big test for us," Saints coach
Aaron Jackson said. "We've done it in the past and come through it pretty well. We're trying to improve on the Saturday performance we had a year ago."
A season ago, the Saints went 4-3 at the classic. Carroll's three losses all came on Saturday. Yet, it was a start that propelled the Saints toward a school-record in wins (28).
While the temperatures continue to dip below zero in Montana, the Saints will finally get a chance to get outside and work in the dirt. By game time, the Saints will be playing in about 50 degrees warmer weather.
"That's going to feel nice," Jackson said. "Advantage for us. The Southern California teams, Arizona teams, that weather will feel cold for them."
This season, the Saints return its entire pitching staff and a large chunk of their offense from a season ago. Carroll graduated three seniors from that school-record-setting squad. Also returning are all-conference selections
Tess Eaton (second team), Ali Williams (second team)
Anna ApRoberts (honorable mention) and Gold Glove winner
Kendall Mooney.
Carroll kicks off the classic playing St. Katherine. Over the course of the weekend, the Saints will play Vanguard, San Diego Christian, Hope, Arizona Christian, Aquinas College and La Sierra.
The Saints are entering the season by receiving votes in the NAIA Top 25 poll for the first time ever. While the Saints have always had expectations to be one of the top teams in the country, now other programs are starting to notice the Saints.
"There are no secrets," Jackson said. "The expectations haven't been any different than in years past. I think the difference is we're getting recognition. We know we're on the right track."
The Saints' first game is scheduled for 10 a.m. Friday.
