The Cal Poly softball team has been skipped over for the College World Series the past couple of years from what many critics considered a weak schedule.
But head coach Jenny Condon is determined to come back strong this year. “We have an even tougher schedule this year.we’re excited to see how we play,” Condon said.
The road is no easier for the Mustangs this year as they play a pre-conference schedule that features dates with Northwestern, Stanford, Washington, Oregon State (all ranked in the top 25 last year) and a plethora of Southeastern Conference teams.
On top of all that, the Mustangs will tangle with perennial powerhouse UCLA. The Bruins have won 11 national titles and finished third in the polls behind Northwestern and national champion Arizona.
The Mustangs decided to strengthen their schedule last year too, playing five top 25 opponents. However, the results were not good, as the Mustangs went 0-6 in games against ranked opponents.
Condon remains confident this year despite the prospect of such tough competition.
“We have depth everywhere, pitching, hitting and defense, so I like our chances,” Condon said.
Although the team lost some veteran leadership last year, Condon describes the team as experienced due to the fact she started freshman in key spots.
This year’s squad features five seniors, two juniors and the squad of aforementioned sophomores.