ORLANDO (UCFKnights.com) – The 2019 softball season is just around the corner and after graduating two student-athletes, the Knights have welcomed many newcomers to the squad. Five freshmen will suit up for the Knights as they make their collegiate debuts on the diamond.
The young group will battle to make their presence known early for UCF with a pair of pitchers, a catcher, and two outfielders fill the gaps in the Knights lineup.
The Freshmen:
Damaria Cannon
A quick-on-the-bases lefty slapper from California, Cannon will be an offensive threat for opponents’ defenses. She hit over .500 in her last year of high school and scored over 30 runs. Originally an infielder, Cannon will spend the majority of her defensive time in the outfield showing off her strong arm.
Karissa Ornelas
The Knights get a positive boost behind the dish as Ornelas will join Cassady Brewer as a catcher. Ornelas comes to Orlando from Southern California where she was a led the Vista Murrieta Broncos to a league title and paced the team in RBI. Ornelas has a strong work ethic and will look to learn a lot from the veteran Brewer.
Ashley Stephenson
One of two new additions to the pitching staff, Stephenson is a right-handed flame-thrower that will complement junior Alea White. Stephenson will be a threat in the circle after her impressive career in high school where she was a two-time All-State selection at Rockledge High School and led the Raiders to three district titles. Stephenson will be a one of three starting pitchers for UCF.
Tera Testa
The outfield will get a talented young bonus this season in Testa, who also hails from California. In high school, Testa posted a .400 batting average with a .551 slugging percentage for her 20th nationally-ranked team. Testa will be a robust plus in the outfield with her athletic arm.
Breanna Vasquez
Another prime addition to the pitching staff, Vasquez brings a great deal of ability. At her high school in California, Vasquez was voted MVP for three consecutive years along with being named to All-State First Team her sophomore year. Vasquez has been a workhorse in the fall and looks to make plenty of starts in her first season with the Knights.
TICKETS FOR 2019
Fans can purchase tickets for the 2019 UCF softball season by calling (407) 823-1000 or online here: https://ucfknights.co/2RYIOhq. Single game tickets go on sale February 1.
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