A History of Excellence: The University of South Florida Softball Program

The University of South Florida (USF) Bulls softball team has a rich and storied history, marked by conference championships, NCAA tournament appearances, and individual accolades. From its humble beginnings to its current status as a competitive force in the American Athletic Conference, the program has consistently strived for excellence. This article delves into the history of the USF softball program, highlighting key moments, influential figures, and the traditions that have shaped its identity.

Early Years and the AIAW Era (1973-1982)

The USF softball team's journey began in 1973, well before softball became an officially sanctioned NCAA sport in 1985. During this formative period, the Bulls, then known as the Lady Brahmans until 1987, competed in the Association for Intercollegiate Athletics for Women (AIAW) and the American Softball Association.

While comprehensive records from this era are scarce, it is documented that the team reached the AIAW Quarterfinals in both 1976 and 1981. Hildred Deese served as the program's first head coach, guiding the team through these early years. Deese also held the position of head coach for the USF volleyball team from 1979 to 1983.

Transition to the NCAA and Continued Growth (1985-1995)

Following the dissolution of the AIAW in 1982, the American Softball Association (now USA Softball) assumed the role of the primary collegiate governing body for the sport. In 1983, USF's softball team won the first team national championship in school history. The year 1985 marked a significant turning point as USF softball officially joined the NCAA.

Hildred Deese remained at the helm, leading the team through its initial years in the NCAA. During this period, USF competed without a formal conference affiliation, as its primary conferences did not sponsor softball.

The Southern Atlantic Softball Alliance (SASA) Years (1995-1999)

In 1995, USF joined the Southern Atlantic Softball Alliance (SASA), a softball-only conference that included prominent programs such as Florida State. This move provided the Bulls with a more competitive landscape and increased exposure.

The Ken Eriksen Era: A Legacy of Success (1996-Present)

A new chapter began in 1996 with the arrival of Ken Eriksen as head coach. Eriksen, a former USF baseball player (1981-1984), brought a new vision and energy to the program. He is the winningest coach across all sports in USF history.

Under Eriksen's leadership, the Bulls experienced a period of sustained success. They captured SASA titles in 1997 and 1998, with the 1998 team achieving an impressive .803 winning percentage, the highest in program history at the time.

Conference USA and NCAA Tournament Mainstays (2000-2005)

With Conference USA's decision to sponsor softball in 2000, USF transitioned out of SASA. While the Bulls did not win a CUSA title, they became consistent contenders in the NCAA Tournament, earning berths in 2001, 2003, 2004, and 2005.

Big East Conference and Super Regional Appearance (2006-2012)

In 2006, USF joined the Big East Conference, marking another step forward for the program. That same year, the Bulls reached their first NCAA Super Regional, where they faced UCLA.

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The Bulls won their first Big East title in 2008, solidifying their position as a top program in the conference.

The USF Softball Stadium and a College World Series Berth (2011-Present)

The opening of the USF Softball Stadium in 2011 provided the Bulls with a state-of-the-art home field advantage.

The 2012 season was a watershed moment for the program. Pitcher Sara Nevins threw a perfect game in March, the Bulls hosted a Super Regional for the first time, and they secured their first-ever NCAA Women's College World Series berth.

Sara Nevins threw another perfect game in 2014 en route to another NCAA tournament appearance.

American Athletic Conference Dominance (2013-Present)

Following the Big East Conference realignment in 2013, USF became a charter member of the American Athletic Conference (AAC). The Bulls have continued to thrive in the AAC, winning conference crowns in 2016, 2018 and 2019.

Read also: Legacy of Fordham University

Milestones and Individual Achievements

Throughout its history, the USF softball program has celebrated numerous milestones and individual achievements.

In 2021, Coach Ken Eriksen achieved his 1,000th career win, becoming the first USF coach in any sport to reach this milestone. The win was highlighted by a no-hitter pitched by Georgina Corrick.

Corrick is considered one of the greatest college softball players ever. She holds USF's all-time records in numerous categories, including wins, strikeouts, innings pitched, complete games, shutouts, and opponent batting average.

Despite an injury that limited her participation in the 2022 conference and NCAA tournaments, Corrick had one of the most dominant seasons in college softball history, posting a 37-5 record with 21 shutouts, 34 complete games, 418 strikeouts, and an ERA of 0.51, along with two perfect games.

Perfect Games in USF Softball History

The USF softball program has a rich history of outstanding pitching performances, including several perfect games. These flawless outings showcase the skill and dominance of the Bulls' pitchers. Here's a list of perfect games thrown by USF pitchers:

Leigh Ann Ellis, March 11, 2003, vs. St.
Sara Nevins, March 11, 2012, vs.
Sara Nevins, May 4, 2014, vs.
Georgina Corrick, March 6, 2022, vs.
Georgina Corrick, April 30, 2022 vs.

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