DURHAM, N.C. – WKU Softball has been named one of five mid-major programs to watch
in 2021 by Softball America, the organization announced on June 23.
Head coach Amy Tudor’s program was joined (in alphabetical order) by James Madison,
Fresno State, Louisiana and Troy.
“…Western Kentucky had the makings of a team that could compete for the 2020 crown
and a trip to the NCAA Tournament. Although COVID-19 ended those chances, Western
Kentucky has the talent returning to be a major threat within its conference next
year,” the release states.
In 2020 WKU Softball was off to the best start in program history after five weeks,
owning a record of 20-5 when play was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The
team reached the 20-win milestone quicker than any other in program history. WKU was
3-0 in Conference USA and 12-2 at home when the season ended. The Tops were
predicted to finish second in the C-USA Preseason Coaches Poll, receiving two
first-place votes while earning their highest preseason ranking in their time in the
league.
After opening the season with a 20-4 record and starting Conference USA action 3-0,
WKU Softball ranked No. 31 in the first RPI of the 2020 season. The squad posted
eight top-75 wins, including a victory at No. 26 Troy and a series sweep of No. 73
Middle Tennessee. Three of WKU’s wins came over teams in the top 50 of the RPI with
aforementioned Troy coming in at 26th, Lipscomb ranking 43rd and North Florida at
No. 45. Additional top-100 wins by the Tops include a pair of victories over No. 67
Illinois State. WKU has outscored top-100 opponents 53-27, allowing just two
opposing teams to score more than three runs in a game.
The Softball America announcement concludes by saying “with a full, healthy roster
next season, Western Kentucky should be in prime contention to make a trip to the
NCAA Tournament next season”.
