Sharon Schumann Assistant Coach | Ferris State Bulldogs Website
Sharon Schumann Assistant Coach | Ferris State Bulldogs Website
Ferris State University freshman Alexis Kozlowski has been named a finalist for the 2024 Schutt Sports/NFCA Division II Freshman of the Year Award. The National Fastpitch Coaches Association (NFCA) announced the list of eight finalists, each representing one of the NCAA's regions. Kozlowski represents the Midwest Region.
The other finalists include Sarah Davenport from East Stroudsburg (Atlantic), Desi Cuevas from Augustana (Central), Kelsey Higgins from College of Saint Rose (East), Maliyah Lawson from Nova Southeastern (South), Makayla Garcia from UT Tyler (South Central), Emily Blackwell from North Greenville (Southeast), and Alli Kimball from Western Washington (West). The award winner will be announced on May 21.
Five finalists were recognized as NFCA First- or Second-Team All-Region players. Davenport received dual honors as Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference's East Division Player and Freshman of the Year. Other finalists, including Kozlowski, earned their league's freshman or rookie awards.
This is Ferris State’s first representation among finalists, while Augustana marks its third and Nova Southeastern its second appearance. Established in 2015, this award recognizes exceptional athletic achievements by freshman softball players in NCAA Division II.
Kozlowski was also named to the NFCA All-Midwest Region First Team earlier this season, becoming Ferris State's first player to earn such honors since 2009. She also made it to the All-Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (GLIAC) First Team and was chosen as GLIAC Freshman of the Year.
In her debut season, Kozlowski led Ferris State with a .361 batting average, 61 hits, and 48 RBIs over 52 games. Her performance included leading her team in doubles and triples within the conference standings. The Bulldogs concluded their season with 25 wins, marking their best record in eight years.
The NFCA serves as a professional organization for fastpitch softball coaches, providing education and support through various programs and events.
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