Softball was originally preparing for the season opener at Ventura College, however, the team will not be competing this year.
Interim Athletic Director Susan Armenta said assistant coach Mark Cooley told her they don’t have enough players to field a team.
Armenta said she stayed until 8 p.m. on Wednesday making phone calls.
“I know this has been an issue in the past,” Armenta said. “I spoke with the conference and all the other school AD’s to inform them about softball. I wanted them to hear from me first.”
Armenta said she had a meeting the morning prior to making the decision. She was optimistic the season was going on.
Armenta said they must address what led to the program not competing and move forward.
In 2018, the team had to cancel their season due to the same issue.
Dean of Athletics Genice Sarcedo-Magruder said it was a tough decision.
“We met with facilities to see the current state of both our softball and baseball fields. We are working on remedies so that way we have playable surfaces, looking to shift around some funding from tennis since that is no longer a sport,” Sarcedo-Magruder said.
Sarcedo-Magruder said they looked at the eligibility report for the program.
“There were only nine students eligible and you need that number to play. So you’re essentially one injury away from canceling a game or a season and realistically it is not fair for the girls who are playing.”
Sarcedo-Magruder said with repairs on the field it will be easier to bring in players next season.
Kaylee Stevens, who was going to be coaching the team this year, said it is disappointing.
“I feel bad for the players. It is unfortunate we are not going to have a season,” Stevens said.
