The first ever SF State Gators Athletics Spring Media Day was filled with positive and focused outlooks for the upcoming season. Coaches and players from the softball and baseball teams and women’s track and field spoke about the upcoming season.
Two first-year head coaches made their debuts at the media day, poised to lead their respective teams to promising seasons.
Head softball coach Lisa Allen led NCAA Division II Montana State University Billings to 31 wins last season, among other accomplishments, according to the department of athletics website.
Head baseball coach Tony Schifano was the associate head baseball coach at his alma mater, University of California, Davis for seven years.
“[The players] have been working very hard to become a team that’s determined to win no matter what,” Allen said.
Allen sat alongside returning outfielder/pitcher Aryn Guzman and starting pitcher Megan Clark. Guzman said the team has a new attitude and demeanor, giving them the confidence to compete with any team. Clark said she feels the team is more positive.
Beside Schifano at the media day desk was returning starting pitcher Peter Reyers and first baseman Ryan Burke. Schifano said he’s seen his new team be receptive of his system and philosophies.
Burke said this year’s team chemistry might be better than last year.
“I hate to use the old cliché, but they’re buying in,” Schifano said.
Reyes said this season’s team is locked in on the upcoming year.
“Everyone has the drive they want to win this year and that’s what’s most important to us,” said Burke.
Second-year head track and field coach Kendra Reimer said she wanted to build up last year’s team chemistry and set team goals. This season’s goals, like every season, are commitment to winning, to the team and working hard.
“This year we’re seeing the fruits of the labor,” Reimer said.
The coaches are seeing improvement through better team and individual performances, mentality changes, and creating a team culture, Reimer said.
Sophomore sprinter NyErin Buckley said she wants to run a 24 second 200-meter relay as her personal goal. Her team goal is to get to know her team better.
Senior Nicole Uikilifi needs to throw a few inches farther in order to reach a provisional mark in the weight throw. This season will be her first and only season with the team. Even though this is her only season, Uikilifi has set an example by fully committing to the team by showing up on time to practice and study sessions.
“We have quality girls across every event,” Reimer said. “We’re excited with the girls we have here.”