UofL posted a combined 3.466 GPA last season among the 16 players on the roster. Between academics and athletics, Coach Kelly led her team to a high level of success. I expect to see we'll see the team this coming season just as smart and just as impressive on the court.
The Red and Black scrimmage is exactly one month from today. It is the only event that is free admission for volleyball. They kick off the regular season at home on August 24 in the Cardinal Classic.
My Thoughts on Holly Aprile
Had UofL delayed the announcement of the new softball coach one more day I would have had the privilege of writing about it. However, Paulie did a fine job yesterday introducing us here at Cardinal Couple to Coach Aprile in his article. She will be formally introduced at a media conference today at 12:30 p.m. at the "Little" YUM Media Room.After following the program pretty heavily the last few years I thought I would give my thoughts on the hire:
Coach Aprile is familiar with Louisville. The Cards and Pitt were foes in the Big East and ACC, where the two teams would play a series each year. Aprile has had plenty of time to observe Louisville and the players on the roster.
Aprile also has post-season experience. She led the Panthers to a Big East Championship in 2015 and an ACC Runner-Up in 2018. The veteran coach also made it as far as the Regional Finals in the NCAA Tournament. Post-season success is no stranger for Aprile, and she should bring that tradition with her to Louisville.
Catch Paulie's article tomorrow. I'm pretty sure he'll bring the highlights and recording of Coach Aprile meeting with the media and it should be a good one!
Other News and Notes
I happened to drive past our three new women's basketball players on campus last night. Between the time they graduated high school to this point there is a noticeable difference in added muscle. The coaching staff is already preparing them for the upcoming season.Women's soccer is less than a month away and one of the biggest questions remaining is the recovery process of many of the players who faced injuries last season. Allison Whitfield, Emina Ekic, Taylor Kerwin, and Sarah Feola all missed substantial playing time at some point last season. Even if cleared to play are they up to date on conditioning and have they gotten a chance to wipe the dust off of their boots (cleats)?
Paulie interviewed Coach Karen Ferguson Dayes on Monday and you can hear that interview in the Tuesday edition of Cardinal Couple if you missed it.
What Day Is It?
It is also Nelson Mandela International Day, one of the greatest heroes in the world. For others, today might be a good day to not talk and see what others have to say in observance of National Listening Day.
Happy Wednesday and Go Cards!
- Jared -
Hoping Holly can build a strong ACC squad in Softball. A look indicates that Louisville has plenty of pitching returning but will they be healthy, unlike last year? Also, some spots to fill in the infield, catcher and replacing Pufahl in center.
ReplyDeleteQuite willing to give her a "pass" for a few years while she builds the team her way.
Curtis "Good field, no hit" Franklin
Good points Curtis. One thing I'd like to see return is a fall scrimmage schedule instead of inter-squad games. Louisville used to take on Bellarmine and som other local/regional schools.
ReplyDeletePaulie
She had several positive comments about the university and facilities during her press conference today!
ReplyDelete