Nov. 15, 2001
LEXINGTON, Ky. – University of Kentucky softball coach Beth Kirchner has announced that three new faces will be added to the UK squad for the 2003 season as Wednesday marked the beginning of the national signing period. Kentucky’s own Becky Abner, Amy Kendall of Indiana and Idaho resident Ingrid Lochelt all have signed with the Cats.
Abner is a 5-8 right-handed pitcher from London, Ky., who owns a 101-16 career record with an ERA of 0.68. She currently plays for coach Jimmy Durham at Class 4A North Laurel High School, the 2001 Kentucky State Champions. She has collected numerous accolades, including being named 2001 Louisville Slugger Second-Team All-American, the 2001 Kentucky State Tournament MVP and the 1999 NSA National 16-and-under Player of the Year.
“Becky is one of the best players to ever come out of the state of Kentucky,??? said Kirchner. “We are thrilled she has decided to become a Wildcat.???
Kendall, a 5-10 right-handed pitcher from Fort Wayne, Ind., owns a career record of 117-60 with an ERA of 0.91. She is currently enrolled at Class 3A Northrop High School, where she plays for coach Cindy Kindschy, and has also played for the Indiana Heat NSA/ASA. A 1999 Second-Team and 2000 Third-Team Louisville Slugger High School All-American, she has been a First-Team All-State and All-Conference selection three consecutive years.
“Amy is the most decorated pitcher we have ever signed. She has great competition experience against the highest level players in America and should very easily make the transition to college ball,??? Kirchner said.
Lochelt is a 5-6 infielder from Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, who hit .435 during her junior year with 37 hits and 31 RBI. A three-year starter for Coach Darren Taylor at Class 4A Lake City High School, she has been named all-league three straight years while also being a National Honor Society student.
“Ingrid is a very athletic player who can play multiple positions. She will be an asset for us,??? Kirchner said.
Overall, the coaching staff is very excited about the three additions, as the team will lose five important pieces of the UK softball team to graduation in May.
“We are very pleased with the signing class which will have an immediate impact on our team,??? said Kirchner. “We are pleased with our signees, both as players and people.???
UK opens its season on Feb. 1 at the Florida International Tournament in Miami, Fla.
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