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Florida Atlantic University Athletics
Softball Picked to Win Conference USA
1/20/2016 12:00:00 AM | Softball
Jan. 20, 2016
BOCA RATON, Fla. -- Coming of its first NCAA Regional appearance since 2006, the Florida Atlantic University softball team was picked to win the Conference USA title in a poll of the league's head coaches, the conference office announced Wednesday. The Owls went 16-7 in C-USA play last season and were runners-up to WKU in both the regular season and at the Conference USA Tournament.
"We know that being voted to win the conference means we'll get everyone's best shot and we're looking forward to the challenge," FAU Head Softball Coach Joan Joyce said.
Kylee Hanson was named Conference USA Preseason Pitcher of the Year. It's the second year in a row that an FAU pitcher has received the honor. Samantha Messer was named Preseason Pitcher of the Year last season. Hanson, a junior from Jupiter, ended the 2015 season with an 18-5 record and a 1.56 ERA, including six shutouts and a save. She was named First Team All C-USA as well as Second Team NFCA All-South Region.
"Kylee had a terrific sophomore season and we expect her to continue that this year," said Joyce.
Senior outfielder Christina Martinez and sophomore shortstop Emily Lochten were also named to the preseason team. Martinez, who was named preseason All-Conference for the second straight year, ended last season with a .348 batting average, 12 stolen bases and a team high 71 hits.
"It's a testament to Christina that she was able to make the all-conference preseason team at a position that is absolutely loaded," said Joyce.
Lochten, a Lake Worth, Fla. native started all 52 games for the Owls at shortstop, hitting a team best .363 with 44 runs scored, 14 doubles and 33 RBI. Her .534 slugging percentage, .480 on-base percentage and 30 stolen bases also bested the Owls. Lochten was named to the all-conference second team and all-freshman team at the end of last season.
"We had high expectations for Emily when she got here last season and she certainly lived up to them," said Joyce.
The Owls open up the season at home against SIUE on Friday, Feb. 12 as part of the FAU Kick-Off Classic. For tickets, call 1-866-FAU-OWLS or visit FAUSports.com.
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