<body><div><img src="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?type=thumbnail_580x000&amp;url=0DO8ta_0vlmkDQI00" alt="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=0DO8ta_0vlmkDQI00" width="800" height="450" >Morgan State softball is set to open its 2025 season by participating in the prestigious 22nd National Fastpitch Coaches Association (NFCA) Division I Leadoff Classic in Clearwater, Florida, from February 6-9. This marks the first time the Lady Bears have entered this tournament, featuring 17 teams from eight conferences. Head coach Larry Hineline expressed excitement about exposing his players to this high level of competition, especially as they prepare for the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) season. The tournament’s notable participants include Duke, Missouri, and Tennessee, all of which had strong performances in previous seasons.<ul><li>17 total programs competing in the tournament from 8 different conferences.</li><li>14 teams competed in their respective conference tournaments last season, with 8 advancing to the NCAA Regionals.</li><li>Morgan State, the reigning MEAC champion, will play at least 5 games over the tournament's 4 days.</li></ul>State of Play<ul><li>Morgan State will begin competition on February 7 against Notre Dame.</li><li>The schedule includes matches against Kentucky and a rivalry game with Bethune-Cookman, their first meeting in eight years.</li><li>All games will be streamed live on the GameChanger App.</li></ul>The Lady Bears aim to leverage this tournament experience to prepare for their MEAC season and aim for a return to the postseason. With the high-profile matches slated against established programs, their performance could impact recruitment and future scheduling opportunities.Bottom LineMorgan State's participation in the Leadoff Classic is a significant step for the program, highlighting their growth and ambition in collegiate softball. Success in this tournament could enhance their competitiveness and visibility on a national scale.</div></body>

Mountain View, CA

NewsBreak

Morgan State Softball Launches 2025 Season at Leadoff Classic

Morgan State softball is set to open its 2025 season by participating in the prestigious 22nd National Fastpitch Coaches Association (NFCA) Division I Leadoff Classic in Clearwater, Florida, from February 6-9. This marks the first time the Lady Bears have entered this tournament, featuring 17 teams from eight conferences. Head coach Larry Hineline expressed excitement about exposing his players to this high level of competition, especially as they prepare for the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) season. The tournament’s notable participants include Duke, Missouri, and Tennessee, all of which had strong performances in previous seasons.