FULLERTON, Calif. – After a busy fall for the Cal State Fullerton softball program, FullertonTitans.com sat down with third-year head coach Kelly Ford to talk about the progress of the team as the 2015 campaign approaches.
FullertonTitans.com: What did you learn in the fall that you maybe didn't know about your team before you started your team practices?
Ford: The level of competition for every single position is unbelievable. Our student-athletes have really showed that their commitment and drive to succeed this season is paramount. I've been pleasantly surprised about the high traffic at our facility with student-athletes who have taken it upon themselves to put in extra time to work out on their own.
FullertonTitans.com: What is the strategy for having a roster of this size with nearly 30 eligible student-athletes?
Ford: The roster size has really made us better in that our coaching staff is able to evaluate a team that is competing day in and day out. All positions cannot be taken for granted. The roster creates a level of competition at each spot that is making us better across the board.
FullertonTitans.com: There were various injuries after wrapping up the fall last season, how are we looking from a health standpoint this year?
Ford: Last season we had quite a bit of question marks at several key positions, but this year we are looking significantly healthier. We've had all our student-athletes focus on their workout and rehab plans, and as of right now, we have no major setbacks or injuries that would affect our outlook on opening day.
FullertonTitans.com: Where do you turn to for leadership with such a young team and only one senior?
Ford: A real intricate part of our success this fall is the naming of captains. We've established this layer of leadership among a trio of student-athletes in our lone senior Eliza Crawford, along with Missy Taukeiaho and Samantha Galarza. This has opened up a new channel of communication from our staff to our student-athletes. The captains have provided a strong sense of leadership that has aided the accountability of the entire team. This group is mission-driven and it's expected that a trip to the NCAA postseason is on the horizon.
FullertonTitans.com: Which freshmen do you see making an impact?
Ford: Shianne Brannan is going to be a strong competitor for us with her defensive capabilities being one of her staples. Bryanna Ybarra can flat-out hit as we look to find ways to insert her bat into the lineup.
FullertonTitans.com: About your staff, Claire Sua-Amundson joins the Titans for her first season as an assistant coach while Jorge Araujo has been promoted to first assistant coach. Can you talk a little bit about what each one of them brings to this program?
Ford: Claire has been an unbelievable recruit to our coaching staff, boosting our program to another chapter of excellence. Our student-athletes respond very well to her coaching style because she knows exactly what it takes to be a champion while bringing that intangible expectation mentality. I have all the confidence in the world in Claire, and in turn I've decided that she will be a great asset to our offensive prowess by coaching third base.
Jorge's promotion to first assistant coach is exactly what he deserved. He's taken on some more responsibilities administratively, while he continues to be the number one lead for our recruiting efforts. He will always be our infield technician as our defensive efforts are key to our success. Jorge's positive style and professionalism make him a true role model for our student-athletes.
As far as our entire support staff, which includes all assistants and team managers, we've reached a point of synchronization as operations are running smooth. I'm happy to see our staff come together and be on the same page for the better of our team.
FullertonTitans.com: Heading into the 2015 campaign you've landed four key transfers. How do you see these newcomers making an impact?
Ford: Courtney Rodriguez (Arizona) has shown us through her work ethic and athleticism that she'll be a force in the outfield. Sarah Moore (Missouri) is also an outstanding worker with a strong presence at the plate. Sarah will also be in the mix to make her presence felt in the outfield.
Behind the plate, Kylie Padilla (Oregon State) has the traits to be a true leader. As a coaching staff we have had to fill the void of Ariel Tsuchiyama at the catcher's position, and we feel that we have several student-athletes that can fulfill that role.
Alexis Gonzalez (Oregon State) has also shared time at catcher and has really shown that both her and Kylie are legitimate threats offensively.
FullertonTitans.com: The 2015 schedule 
is again among the nation's best. What are your thoughts on the strength of schedule?
Ford: It has always been important to schedule programs that have advanced to the NCAA postseason. The schedule was driven based on the fact that many of our opponents have had postseason success, and if we have a shot at playing a top program or inviting them to one of our tournaments, it will only challenge us in a positive manner. Our segment prior to conference play will prepare and set us up for a high level of competition down the stretch. Every single game during conference play will be a challenge, but between our non-conference schedule and the various tournaments, our team will be prepared to make this a special season.
FullertonTitans.com: Are there any upcoming events that you forward to?
Ford: I'm really excited about the Leadoff Dinner this season and how it will be driven by the presence of our wonderful alumni. We are expecting a great number of former Titans to make the event special as we look to get our 2015 campaign off to a great start. I'm ecstatic to have two guest speakers that represent the pride and tradition of Cal State Fullerton softball. Titan Hall of Fame coach Judi Garman and 2004 U.S. Olympic Gold Medalist and three-time All-American Jenny Topping will highlight our highly anticipated event.
Cal State Fullerton opens its season on Friday, Feb. 6 tri-hosting the So Cal Collegiate Challenge Tournament and will face Purdue at 4:00 p.m. before welcoming Idaho State to Anderson Family Field at 6:30 p.m.
