Softball Inks Three For 2004-05
December 01, 2003 | Softball
University of Wisconsin softball coach Karen Gallagher has announced the signing of Joey Daniels, Alexis Garcia and Ricci Robben to National Letters of Intent to begin playing for the Badgers during the 2004-05 season.
'What I love about all three is that they're really good kids and have great character,' Gallagher said. 'They're all good students and they'll bring a wealth of experience. They're all from top-notch Junior Olympic programs that are ranked in the top 20 nationally. They 're going to make our program much better and stronger and I look forward to working with them. They are all very consistent players and are team leaders.'
Daniels (Oakley, Calif.) played catcher and third base for Freedom High School and the San Jose Strikkers club team. She batted .576 with 12 RBI and three home runs in 33 at-bats to earn first-team all-league honors while leading Freedom High to a league title in 2003. In five years of ASA experience, Daniels helped her teams to three ASA Nationals appearances. She was also named Best Catcher each of the past two seasons. Daniels played with current Badger freshman Stephanie Chinn on the Strikkers team.
'Joey is going to be an excellent catcher for us,' Gallagher said. 'With a year under her belt at this level, I think she is really going to be a great leader for our program. She is one of those hard-core type of kids that I think is going to get better and better with time, not only physically but mentally as well.'
Garcia (N. Hollywood, Calif.) batted .491 with 17 doubles, five triples and six home runs as a junior at Faith Baptist High on her way to being named first-team All-CIF. A first baseman and catcher, Garcia's CIF-leading 55 RBI helped lead Faith Baptist to a state championship. She also played for the Orange County Batbusters club.
'Alexis is a very solid hitter who will bring more power to our lineup,' Gallagher said. 'I think with the people that we'll be losing after this year, she'll be able to step right in and do a very good job. '
Robben (Napa, Calif.) played outfield and pitcher for Vintage High School in earning two first-team all-league honors while being named a three-time Napa County Player of the Year. As a senior she was named the league's pitcher of the year. Robben joined Daniels in playing for the San Jose Strikkers during the club season.
'Ricci is a very versatile player,' Gallagher said. 'I think she is really going to add to the mix of our pitching staff. She has really done a great job at the ASA level.'
The Badgers open their 2004 season Feb. 13-15 when they travel to Las Vegas to compete in the UNLV Classic.
