Preview: Pitchers and Catchers

ORLANDO (UCFKnights.com) - The 2018 season will be a year of continuity in the circle and behind the plate for the UCF softball team. An all-conference battery returns with sophomore pitcher Alea White and junior catcher Cassady Brewer looking to build on their league recognized performances last year.
 
Joining White on the Knights' young pitching staff are fellow sophomores Demara Begin and Kamryn Toney. Brewer will have a backup behind the plate from Seminole State transfer; sophomore Alyssa Oakes.
 
White stepped up and became a mainstay last year for the Knights. She led the bullpen in games played with 37 appearances and led the American in innings pitched by a freshman with 199 frames spent in the circle.
 
"It was huge for her to get her feet wet like she did last year. She pitched the majority of our games and did a phenomenal job as a freshman," UCF head coach Renee Luers-Gillispie said. "Knowing where we need to go this season and understanding how to become stronger, more competitive, and more focused as a pitcher is why she's going to come in and be one of our keys this year." 
 
Striking out 92 batters on the season, White won the most games by a UCF freshman pitcher since Mackenzie Audas in 2012. White was named to the All-Conference Second Team and was a unanimous selection to the league's all-rookie team. When speaking about the experience she gained last year, White echoed her coach's sentiments.
 
"I think playing that many games last year made me stronger and more prepared for this season," White said.
 
With a young pitching staff in the circle, it's beneficial having a veteran behind the plate to help control the game. Junior catcher Cassady Brewer was able to fill that role last season, forming a connection with White in the process.
 
"Alea and I have created a special bond," Brewer said. "We know each other's thinking throughout the game, and she's one of my best friends off the field. I look forward to catching her every single day and enjoy watching her get better."
 
Brewer, a member of The American's All-Conference First Team, had a phenomenal season for the Knights in 2017. The Apopka, Fla., native recorded a .351 batting average with 35 RBIs; a mark good enough for fourth in the conference.
 
"She's one of our best hitters," assistant coach Trena Prater said. "She's just a great all-around kid. With her behind the plate, she's going to run the infield and set the tone on both sides of the lineup. I'm just excited to see her blossom into her junior year."
 
The Knights open up the 2018 campaign on Feb. 9 at the Friends of Jaclyn Invitational. UCF plays Louisville and Butler to get things going on Friday in Winter Springs, Fla.
 
SEASON TICKETS
Season tickets for the highly-anticipated 2018 softball season are currently on sale. General admission tickets to all 21 home games are priced at $50 for adults and $25 for ages 2-17. Click here or call (407) 832-1000 for additional ticketing information.
 
WATCH LIVE ALL SEASON
All UCF softball games are broadcast live on UCFKnights.TV for only $7.99 a month! Sign up here to catch every pitch from the Knights' 21 home games.
 
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