Due to Covid19, the 2020 athletic season was canceled in early March. The soreness of losing an important turn around season for the Cowgirls brought them back to campus this fall with a new attitude and determination to show what they're made of.
The Connors State Softball team returned to campus mid August, immediately starting crossfit training and hit the dirt for the first time in 5 month. The Cowgirls had to battle amongst numerous new safety regulations while prepping for their seven-date fall schedule, all while competing for a spot on the field. Instead of their normal routine from the year before, then girls were split into multiple groups for workouts, were socially distanced during practice, as well as following new restrictions and protocols for game days and traveling. However, regardless of these new restrictions changing how they approach their sport, the team kept a positive outlook and held an appreciation for being able to come together once again. Sophomore centerfielder Kyzia Whisenhunt said the season "showed us what we're capable of but also showed us what can happen if we don't give 100% every play. It was a good learning season".
The Cowgirls played four dates away at Mid-America University, Oklahoma Christian University, Carl Albert College, and Seminole State College while hosting Carl Albert College and Bethany College. Every time the team took the field coaches saw improvement in each position and competition for spot only grew, making quite a difficult decision for spring season. "This is one of the strongest teams I've fielded and competition for each position has gotten better and better. Definitely a problem we like to have when we look into solidifying a starting lineup," Coach Howard said.
With a strong returning sophomore class leading the way, the freshman class has a great example of what the standard is at the Connors State Program, "the fall season was one to remember. With everything happening in the world right now we were lucky enough to have a season and I will never take the ability to play for granted again," said freshman Lillian White. Even though the team has been sent home for the remainder of the semester, the work doesn't stop. The softball team is still training from home getting ready for what certainly be a season to remember.
The Cowgirls kick-off the 2021 campaign in Galveston, Texas February 5, 2021.