Youth was once again the key word when describing the 2002 softball team. With 10 first or second-year players in the starting lineup at any given time—and no seniors on the squad— inexperience played a big role.  The Pride finished 14-18, but GC was in many close ball games with the top teams in the conference. 

According to Coach Ben Guiliano, “We won most of the games people thought we should win; the next step will be to beat those teams that are favored.”
 
Pride batters were third in the Dixie with a .321 batting average. GC led the conference in RBIs with 187—nine more than the next closest club. Individually, freshman Mara Sharpe was third in DIAC batting with a .448 average. Sharpe also tied with teammate Rebecca Ashley for third in RBIs with 32.  Meredith Sapp was tied for the conference lead with 35 runs scored.

“Our players spent a lot of time individually in the off-season honing their softball skills.  That, along with a seasoned nucleus returning for the 2003 campaign, should put us in a position to challenge for the top spot in the conference,” said Guiliano.

The Most Improved Player award went to Sharpe. She started the season as a reserve and took advantage of a few early opportunities at the plate. Sharpe evolved into the team leader in most offensive categories. “Mara was a great clutch hitter who delivered consistently,” said Guiliano. “She has a great future at GC.” 

The team MVP, Meredith Sapp, is virtually an institution in Greensboro softball. She was GC’s leadoff hitter and the cornerstone of the Pride outfield. “She displays a reckless abandon and made numerous ‘highlight reel’ diving catches,” Guiliano said. “Three years ago when I recruited Meredith out of Western Guilford, I knew she’d get this award.”