University of Georgia Athletics
2007 Q. and A. With Coach Lu Harris-Champer
April 30, 2007 | Softball
Q. Last season you led Georgia to the SEC Eastern Division title en route to its fifth consecutive appearance in a NCAA Regional. What are your expectations for this season?
A. “Obviously, our goal is to win the Southeastern Conference title and advance to the World Series. We have won two SEC and three Eastern Division titles over the past few seasons, but we still are aiming at a World Series berth.”
Q. What are the strengths of this season’s team and in what areas has the squad improved the most from the fall?
A. “The biggest strength of this year’s squad is our six seniors. These individuals have been in the program and they know what it takes to accomplish our goals. We are counting on their leadership this season. Our team camaraderie is the one area where we have improved the most from the fall.”
Q. Kasi Carroll returns for her senior season in 2007 to anchor the Bulldogs’ pitching staff. What are your expectations for her and the rest of the pitchers this season?
A. “I think that Kasi is going to have a great year I’m really excited about watching her this season. She is a leader in the circle for us who is battle-tested. She has worked every season to improve herself and now she is reaping the benefits. Kasi knows what is takes to succeed in our conference. She knows that if you can compete in this conference, you can put yourself in a position to excel in the postseason.”
Q. This 2006 team features six seniors. How important have they been in the program’s success, both on and off the field?
A. “Our group of seniors has provided an immense amount of leadership this fall. They know what we have and have not accomplished here in Athens, and they are determined to fight for a trip to the World Series.”
Q. On paper, this season’s squad has the potential to be one of the better hitting teams you’ve coached at UGA. What can fans expect for this season’s offensive attack?
A. “I am really excited about our offensive lineup this season I think we will be a fun group to watch. It has been a few years since we have had this much speed in the lineup. I think fans will enjoy our style of play this season.”
Q. The SEC continues to become a tougher conference on a yearly basis. What is your outlook for the rest of the league?
A. “The competition in the SEC continues to improve on a yearly basis, and I think that it is evident in the continued success that conference teams are having in postseason play. I am a firm believer that the strength of our conference schedule prepares us for postseason play.”
