Pitchers Karin Johnson—a  junior—and freshman Rebecca Goins, narrowly missed upset victories over perennial conference powers, Averett and NC Wesleyan, respectively. 
The Pride had many players at the top of the conference in various categories: Meredith Sapp hit .404, and led the Dixie with 32 runs scored and a .487 on-base percentage. She also had 12 stolen bases, good enough for 5th in the DIAC. Junior Abbey Craven hit .386 to rank 6th, and was 3rd in on base percentage, 10th in runs scored, and drove in 24 runs—which tied for 10th.  Johnson was 7th in slugging percentage with  .561, and was 4th with 34 RBIs.

A dual sport athlete, unquestionably the team offensive leader in runs batted in and slugging percentage, Johnson intimidated opposing hitters with a tenacious pitching style. She was voted second team all-conference.  “Karin was absolutely our rock this year. She was a dominating presence on the mound and at the plate. Next year, we expect her to be even better,” said Head Coach Ben Guiliano.

The upstart softball team gained respect in its initial season from all of its opponents.  Nine of The Pride’s losses were decided by a total of 18 runs—many of those games decided by one significant play—and in those instances, literally by inches.

According to Coach Guiliano, “With mostly freshmaen, we  had a grand total of two years of collegiate softball playing experience on our team. This year’s squad accomplished the goal of being capable of competing with the top teams in the conference.  Next year, it’ll be to challenge for a championship.”