Fresno State is continuing its run of retiring jerseys, announcing Monday that two legends of the softball program will be honored.
Four-time All-American and 1998 national champion Amanda Scott and Donna Pickel, the first head coach in program history, will be celebrated in March.
The big picture: Fresno State will retire Scott’s jersey before the Bulldogs take on San Diego State on March 23.
- Pickel’s celebration will take place one day later on March 24, ahead of the series finale against the Aztecs.
- Scott had a 106-18 record as a pitcher and was named the Women’s College World Series Most Outstanding Player in 1998.
- Fresno State made the NCAA Tournament all four years of her collegiate career, advancing to the Women’s College World Series in three of them.
- Scott went on to play softball professionally and internationally.
- Pickel led the Bulldogs to a 306-146-7 record over eight seasons, making the Women’s College World Series twice, where the Bulldogs were the runner-up in 1982.
- Pickel also coached the women’s basketball team, leading the ‘Dogs to two conference championships and the Association for Intercollegiate Athletics for Women Championships in the 1973-1974 season.
What they’re saying: “Amanda Scott is one of the most accomplished student-athletes we have ever had come through Fresno State,” said Fresno State Athletic Director Tumey. “She will forever be remembered as a leader, a dominant competitor, and a national champion. Her legendary contributions to our softball program will continue to serve as inspiration for our current and future student-athletes.”
- Tumey called Pickel a true pioneer of Fresno State athletics.
- “Her unwavering commitment to women’s sports, and specifically our softball program, paved the way for generations of female student-athletes to live out their dreams as Bulldogs,” Tumey said. “We are forever grateful for her servant leadership and lifelong commitment to Fresno State.”
