UMass' 2011 fall schedule

Katie Bettencourt

UMass had a bit of a rough year in 2011, finishing third at the A10 tournament, failing to advance to NCAA regionals for the first time since 1994, as well dealing with a multitude of injuries, so the Minutewomen are ready to move forward from last year. UMass will play a seven game slate this fall and they will play every game at home.

September 17th vs Sacred Heart vs Boston College

September 24th vs Holy Cross (DH)

October 1st vs Bryant vs Quinnipiac

October 2nd vs Iona (DH)

UMass graduated just two players from 2011 and an impressive recruiting class is coming in, so it would not be a surprise to see the Minutewomen return to their dominating ways. All three pitchers return in the circle for UMass led by Sara Plourde. Caroline Raymond and Lindsey Webster will look to bounce back from injuries that kept them out of the circle for most of last season. On offense, leading hitter Cyndil Matthew returns along with Webster and the Minutewomen will get a huge boost from 2010 A10 co-Player of the Year Katie Bettencourt. 

Coach Elaine Sortino brought in an excellent freshmen class and do not be surprised if a number of them are in the starting lineup by the end of the year. Quianna Diaz-Patterson is definitely one to keep an eye on, as she may be the fastest player on a team that already includes some pretty fast players.