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For the Love of the Game

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For the Love of the Game

Tryouts for the spring 2025 season will be held on Jan. 7 and 9 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Florida State Recreation SportsPlex. Both experienced athletes and those new to the game can join a team that values friendship, competitiveness and a shared passion for softball.Traditions also play an important role. Pre-game […]

Florida State's club softball team at the 2024 NCSA World Series in Columbus, Georgia

Tryouts for the spring 2025 season will be held on Jan. 7 and 9 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Florida State Recreation SportsPlex. Both experienced athletes and those new to the game can join a team that values friendship, competitiveness and a shared passion for softball.Traditions also play an important role. Pre-game traditions frequently include visits to Dunkin Donuts or Starbucks. Rally caps decorated with unusual costumes such as hot dog suits and golden hats are required. The team won the South Atlantic – South conference title with a 12-3 conference record and an overall 20-6 performance, outscoring their opponents 261 to 89. Their regional victory earned them a spot in the National Club Softball Association World Series, where they delivered notable performances, including an 8-0 shutout over NC State and a 12-1 win over Iowa. Despite falling short in the final rounds, FSU finished in fifth place nationally. 

The Seminoles’ success originates from a balanced commitment to competitiveness and friendship. The leadership staff, led by the president and vice president, is in charge of everything from game lineups to fundraising activities. “Making it to the World Series was unforgettable, but this year we’re aiming for number one,” Vice President Madison Baird said.

“It’s a structure that keeps us competitive while balancing academics,” Baird said. “As a student-run organization, we do it all. We even design and order our team apparel and work to earn Tomahawk Points through volunteerism, which helps secure funding for future seasons.” Looking ahead to the 2025 season, the Seminoles’ goals are clear. 

The Florida State University Softball Club is more than simply a team; it’s a community that blends a love of the sport with a strong unity among its members. “These moments are just as memorable as the games,” Walls said. “They create a sense of family that makes this team so special.” 

The team practices twice a week for 2 hours, mixed by mandated weekly workouts that players must accomplish on their own. FSU determines success not only by wins and losses, but also by personal development and enjoyment. The Seminoles perform 2-hour auditions for students who want to join every semester. The Seminole softball club, who practice in the Florida State Rec SportsPlex, have become an important component of campus life, providing students with the opportunity to compete at a high level while also developing lifetime friendships. Last season, the club stood out as one of the best in the nation. Jocelenn Walls, the team’s treasurer and senior outfielder, had similar needs. “This team has given me my closest friends and made Tallahassee feel like home,” Walls said. “The relationships we’ve built here are irreplaceable.” Beyond the field, the Garnet and Gold  participate in a number of bonding events, including Fair nights and Florida State obstacle courses, as well as game nights at teammates’ apartments. “These little traditions bring us closer and make the experience unforgettable,” Baird said. 

“Joining a club sport at any university will be the greatest experience of your life,” Walls said. “Get out there and get active!” “Even returning players must try out again,” Baird said. Standout players like Caroline Orum, the team’s outstanding catcher, help to maintain the team’s competitive edge. “We’re beyond lucky to have her,” Baird said. “Her skills behind the plate and at bat elevate our entire lineup.” “Friendship is at the heart of what we do,” Baird said. “I’ve met all of my best friends through this team. We love having fun while being focused on our goals.” “We want to win regionals and the World Series, but we also want to keep having fun and building stronger bonds,” Walls said. “Last year’s performance raised the bar, and now we’re pushing ourselves even further.” 

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