The Kentucky softball team will open the 2004 season by traveling to Miami, Fla., for the Fun & Sun Classic beginning Friday, Jan. 30. The trip marks the third consecutive season the Cats have opened play in the tournament.

Coach Beth Pruitt begins her eighth season at the helm of the program with a battle against the Florida A&M Lady Rattlers on Friday at noon. The Cats will then face host Florida International at 5 p.m. and resume play on Saturday against Illinois State and Auburn. UK is 3-7 against competition in the Classic and holds a 1-6 mark all-time in season openers.

The Cats return seven starters from a year ago, including seniors Rachel Friberg and Crystalie Wolfe. After losing All-SEC performers Nikki Jones and Lyndsey Angus to graduation, the Cats have 11 newcomers added to the lineup this season.

UK will go up against familiar faces in FIU and ISU. The Cats have faced each team the last two years, holding a 2-0 record against the host Golden Panthers and a 1-3 mark against the Redbirds from Illinois State. The match with Auburn will mark the 15th meeting with UK and Auburn. The Cats and Tigers are tied in the all-time series with seven wins apiece. It will be the first match up between UK and Florida A&M.