The UTEP softball team will open its 2005 season on Friday at the Alexis Resort Kickoff Classic in Las Vegas, Nev., as they take on Cal State-Northridge and Indiana University with Utah State and Marshall on Saturday. They wrap up on Sunday against tournament host UNLV.
“It will give us a good idea on where we need to be,” said co-head coach James Rodriguez. “The teams are going to be tough. It will help us see what it is we need to work on going into the season.”
The Miners, who are coming off of a 8-46 inaugural season, are using this tournament to give some of the players experience. UTEP adds 11 new players to the roster, including eight freshmen. They return nine letterwinners from 2004.
Cal State-Northridge will be a test for the Miners. The Matadors are coming off of a 35-19 season, return 11 letterwinners and are picked to finish second in the Big West Conference.
UTEP will also face future Conference USA member Marshall. The Thundering Herd are coming off of a 31-27 season and lose only two starters from the 2004 squad.
“Marshall is a powerhouse in their conference,” said co-head coach Kathleen Rodriguez. “It will help us see what the competition is going to be like and what it is we need to work on before we make the move to Conference USA next season.”
The Miners will head to San Antonio, Texas from Feb. 10-13 for the Fastpitch Express College Classic.
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