The Kentucky Softball team has accomplished a notable milestone in its history by having two of its players, fifth-year catcher Kayla Kowalik and junior shortstop Erin Coffel, earn second-team honors in the National Fastpitch Coaches’ Association All-American list. The two have each earned the honor twice in the program’s history, with Kowalik having received unanimous first-team selection in 2021 and Coffel an All-American last season in 2022.
This recognition brings Kentucky Softball’s total number of NFCA All-America honors to eight, with six different players having received them. Of the eight honors, seven have been awarded since the 2016 season, which indicates the team’s recent success.
Kowalik’s batting average for the season was .442 with 80 hits, ten doubles, three triples, two home runs, and 24 RBI. She successfully stole 15 of 17 bases. Coffel hit 19 home runs during the season, contributing to her chase of the Kentucky home run record. She hit .440 and had 60 runs, 55 hits, ten doubles, and 55 RBI. Coffel walked a remarkable 64 times, leading the nation, and was perfect in her three attempts at stealing bases.
The NFCA All-America honors are determined by a national panel of NCAA Division I head coaches, who meet in Oklahoma City with all players who were awarded NFCA All-Region for consideration. The first, second, and third teams each have 18 members, with a pitcher, catcher, first baseman, second baseman, third baseman, shortstop, three outfielders, two DP positions, and five at-large spots comprising the best players not assigned to the aforementioned roles.
The Women’s College World Series began on Thursday, May 25th, 2023, in Oklahoma City, and the UK Softball team’s two honorees are expected to make significant contributions to their team’s success. This historic accomplishment is a testament to the team’s perseverance and determination, and the players’ exceptional skill and talent in the sport.
