Athletic Report
March 22, 2001

EASTERN NEW MEXICO UNIVERSITY EARNS FIRST EVER REGIONAL RANKING IN SOFTBALL
PORTALES, NM — The Eastern New Mexico University softball team is ranked 6th in the South Central Region in the first NCAA Division II Women’s Softball Poll of the 2001 season. It is the first ever regional ranking for the ENMU softball team, which is in its fifth season of existence. The Zias, under the direction of Co-Head Coaches Kathleen Rodriguez and James Rodriguez, are currently 16-5-1 on the season.

The Zias have achieved their regional ranking through solid all-around play. ENMU owns a .310 team batting average with 42 extra-base hits, including 11 home runs. The pitching staff has earned a 1.36 team ERA, while limiting opponents to a .213 batting average and no home runs. On defense, the Zias have recorded a .949 team fielding percentage.

ENMU opens Lone Star Conference South Division play this weekend with a pair of double-headers at Tarleton State University in Stephenville, Texas. Game time is set for 12:00 noon (MST) on Friday, Mar. 23. The first pitch on Saturday, Mar. 24 is scheduled for 11:00 a.m. (MST). TSU is 21-10 overall. The TexAnns won the LSC South title last season.

NCAA DIVISION II SOUTH CENTRAL REGIONAL POLL
March 21, 2001
1. Mesa State College (Colorado) 21-4
2. University of Southern Colorado 24-8
3. St. Mary’s University (Texas) 22-2
4. Texas A&M University-Kingsville 20-6
5. Regis University (Colorado) 15-6
6. Eastern New Mexico University 16-5-1