The Plattsburgh State softball team has yet to play a conference game, but that will change this upcoming weekend.
The Cardinals (8-8) will host New Paltz (7-7) today at 3 p.m. for a doubleheader and Oneonta (8-7) tomorrow for another doubleheader, with the first game starting at 1 p.m.
PSUC has played 16 non-conference games so far this season, leading up to SUNYAC play, and the Cards are thrilled to compete against their conference opponents.
“I’m excited to get out there and play again,” sophomore second baseman Amanda Tantillo said.
Last weekend, the Cards had both their road matchups postponed due to bad weather. This weekend, PSUC will play in similar conditions, but the team has been preparing.
Head coach Stephanie Conroy believes her team has what it takes to fight the weather and the angst to get on the field by keeping up the routines in practice, working hard every day and maintaining strong focus while keeping the momentum going.
“We were definitely upset that we didn’t get to play, but we were able to have a great weekend practicing,” Conroy said. “We were able to take advantage of that and feel really good coming into this week.”
Even though the Cards were disappointed that their games were cancelled, they were able to still practice outside on the field, which is something they couldn’t do last season.
“It’s a little frustrating since we’re so ready to play,” Tantillo said. “Last year, we didn’t get out on the field at all, so when we did get out on the dirt, it was different.”
Looking at this weekend, PSUC is excited because they don’t have to travel anywhere and can play games at home in front of their fans.
“For us to not have to get on a bus right away is definitely a bonus, but most of all, we get to play in front of our home fans with families hopefully coming up to visit,” Conroy said. “It’s going to be a great opportunity for us playing home right away.”
Regardless of the setbacks they have endured so far due to the inconvenient weather, the Cards still feel ready for SUNYAC play.
The team is excited to showcase its talent on the field this weekend against conference opponents and feel prepared.
“I see where we are now, and we can only get better from here,” freshman catcher Jennifer Groat said, who has been a key bat in the lineup for the Cards so far this season, leading PSUC with a .439 batting average. “It gives me confidence knowing that my team has confidence in me in the lineup.”
Without a doubt, PSUC is excited and eager to get their conference season off to a great start.
“Right now, we’re scrimmaging and doing the little things in order to be prepared for the games this weekend,” Tantillo said. “After these games, we will be back in the swing of things, and I think we’ll be okay.”
Email Ezra Kachaturian at ezra.kachaturian@cardinalpointsonline.com
