University of Minnesota Athletics
Golden Gopher Softball Adds Five
9/2/2009 12:00:00 AM | Softball
Minneapolis - The University of Minnesota softball team has added five newcomers for the 2009-10 season. Two freshmen, a pair of transfers and a familiar face around the University of Minnesota makes up the new additions, that solidify the roster, and have the Golden Gopher coaching staff excited about the upcoming season.
After a standout career on the ice, Kim Hanlon will conclude her career as a student-athlete on the diamond. Hanlon was a member of the Golden Gopher women's hockey team for four years, appearing in 68 games between the pipes in her career. She opened her career in 2005-06 by landing on the WCHA All-Rookie team when she led the league, and the nation, in goals against average and save percentage. As a senior in 2008-09, she was a part of the Golden Gopher team that won the WCHA Championship. Hanlon will be a catcher and utility player on the softball field this season.
"It will be a change, but a great opportunity for her to leave the ice arena and get back on the dirt," Coach Lisa Bernstein said. "Her positive attitude and being a total team player will find her as a great fit for the Gophers right away."
A freshman from North St. Paul, Minn., Kari Dorle can play behind the plate, at third or in the outfield for the Golden Gophers. A strong performer as a prep athlete at North St. Paul High School, Dorle has the ability to step in and be an impact performer right away. She was an All-State performer for three seasons, in addition to earning three All-Section accolades and four All-Conference honors. She also led her team to a state championship and was twice named to the All-State Tournament team. After her stellar high school career, Dorle is excited to wear the maroon and gold, while the coaches are equally as excited.
"She will add power to our line-up and be a RBI producer," Coach Julie Standering said. "The transition from high school to college will be an exciting challenge and we have 100% confidence that she will step up and get the job done. It will be a pleasure to see her wear maroon and gold for the next four years."
Another freshman is Jessie Hathaway, from Honolulu, Hawaii. Hathaway is slated to be a shortstop and utility player for the Golden Gophers, and will bring a great attitude and tough demeanor to each game. As a senior last season, Hathaway led her team to a third place finish in the Division II State playoffs, while earning Team MVP and league Impact Player honors.
"Jessie is a team player that is willing to play anywhere and take on any role that is asked of her," Standering said. "After every game, she usually has the dirtiest uniform and always a smile on her face. She is a competitive player and I can't wait to start working with her."
Coming to the Twin Cities from Tucson, Ariz. and transferring from Pima Community College is Lisa Stensby. A shortstop and third baseman, Stensby will add power to the offense, as well as immediate depth and experience to the infield. She has already earned a host of honors including multiple All-Conference, All-Region and All-America accolades.
"She has a strong arm, good foot speed, and game instincts that will help us immediately at shortstop," Bernstein said.
The final addition is Whitney Erickson, originally of Danville, Calif., who transfers from the University of Toledo. Erickson started 53 total games at Toledo, including 38 in the 2008 season when she led her team with eight homeruns and 25 RBI. Last season she suffered a season ending injury on the opening game but is eager to return to the ballfield.
"Whitney is a leader both on and off the field," Bernstein said. "Her maturity, softball IQ, and work ethic will add value and elevate the players around her. Whitney has found a home here with the Gophers that will allow her to reach her full potential as an athlete and as a student."
The Golden Gopher softball team will get their first action this October with their annual Fall Invitational.
-UM-
