In a double dose of exciting news for the college softball world, both the University of Central Florida (UCF) and Florida State University (FSU) have made headlines with significant developments. UCF’s softball team has made a summer splash in the transfer portal, securing the talents of junior left-handed pitcher Ava Justman from Wisconsin. Meanwhile, FSU softball celebrates the academic achievements of its student-athletes, with a record-breaking 12 players earning recognition on the All-ACC Academic Team.
UCF Softball Bolsters Roster with Transfer Acquisition
UCF’s softball program is set to enhance its pitching staff with the addition of junior southpaw Ava Justman, who hails from Northridge, California. Justman’s arrival marks a key acquisition for the Knights, as she becomes the second left-handed pitcher on the roster, joining senior Angelina DeVoe.
Justman showcased her skills during her freshman campaign with the Badgers in the spring of 2021. In eight relief appearances, she displayed a formidable 1.79 ERA, allowing just four earned runs in 15.2 innings pitched. Her impressive performance included 13 strikeouts and limited opponents to a .268 batting average against her.
UCF’s move to secure Justman’s talents demonstrates their commitment to strengthening their pitching depth and further solidifying their position as a formidable force in collegiate softball. With her addition, the Knights’ pitching staff gains valuable diversity and depth, ensuring a formidable presence on the mound.
FSU Softball Shines Academically with Record-Breaking All-ACC Achievements
Meanwhile, Florida State softball is basking in the glory of academic excellence as a program-record 12 student-athletes have earned recognition on the All-ACC Academic Team. This remarkable achievement highlights FSU’s dedication to fostering both athletic and academic success among its players.
ACC Pitcher of the Year Kathryn Sandercock and infielder Devyn Flaherty have secured their places on the All-ACC Academic Team for the third time, solidifying their status as exceptional scholar-athletes. Pitcher/infielder Mack Leonard and outfielder Kaley Mudge have earned their second academic all-conference recognition, further cementing their commitment to excellence both on and off the field.
Impressively, FSU boasts five pitchers on the all-academic team, including the aforementioned Sandercock and Leonard, as well as senior Ali DuBois, junior Allison Royalty, and freshman Makenna Reid. Infielders Bethaney Keen and Amaya Ross, along with outfielders Autumn Belviy, Jahni Kerr, and Hallie Wacaser, make up the talented group of newcomers who have earned their place on the All-ACC Academic Team
