Kentucky Softball Season Preview: Coach Lawson's Take at Media Day

The Kentucky Softball program has had its ups and downs over the past few seasons, but head coach Rachel Lawson is looking forward to what’s in store in 2024. At Kroger Field on Tuesday, Lawson, who has been in charge since 2007, spoke to the media about the Wildcat’s upcoming season.

In the 2023 season, the Wildcats finished with a 31-22-1 (10-14 SEC) overall record. Last season got off to a solid start until the Wildcats’ star pitcher Stephanie Schoonover went out with a forearm injury. Although Kentucky was able to get things back on track at the beginning of May with a 2-1 series victory over the No. 16 ranked Florida Gators, the team’s postseason run was cut short after dropping an elimination game to Miami (OH) in the first round of NCAA Tournament play.

With the loss of Kayla Kowalik to graduation — a “once in a lifetime player,” Lawson said — she is excited about the returners and newcomers that this offseason has brought to the program. Lawson also went over various topics including players who have stepped up, new rules for college softball, and what fans should expect from the squad this season.

The ‘Cats kick off the season on Friday, February 9 at the San Diego Tournament against UC Santa Barbara (1:00 p.m. EST). Kentucky will play its first home game of the 2024 season against Bellarmine on March 6 (5 p.m. EST) at John Cropp Stadium.

Coach Lawson’s full presser can be seen below.

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