(PHOENIX, Ariz., Feb. 18, 2004) – Whether recruiting high school seniors for the next season or helping his team make its way through a 70 game schedule, head softball coach, Heinz Mueller is serious about the success of his team, both athletically and academically. Just recently, his team was ranked 4th in the nation for Division II in the NJCAA’s preseason poll.

Most recently, Mueller secured 12 commitments from players across the Valley for the next season, while his current team played well against the 3rd ranked Division I team in the nation, University of Arizona. Additionally, the Bears held their own during a preseason game against the ASU Sun Devils with a 2 to 1 final score.

With a new group of talented young players, Mueller believes that the strength of this year’s team lies within its pitching and catching. Although the team of 17 is currently missing one due to injury, Mueller’s outlook for the season is positive.

"Three players to watch this season are Ramie Garcia, Rachael Schwartz and Chelsie Mesa," said Mueller. "For example, Garcia had 165 strikeouts and made 1st Team All-Region last year. I am excited to see what this year’s team will do!"

Off the field, Mueller’s team is just as dedicated as on the field. "Currently we have a team G.P.A. of 3.55," he adds.

Last year, the team was ranked 12th in the nation academically and 5th in the nation athletically.

The new recruits for 2004-2005 include:

--Lacey Goldsmith - Gilbert High School (Catcher/First baseman);
--Cassie Clark - Independence High School (Catcher/First baseman);
--Lindsay Kelso - Greenway High School (Catcher/Infielder);
--Anna Walle - Moon Valley High School (Pitcher/First baseman);
--Bethney Reynoldson – Pinnacle High School (Pitcher);
--Roxanne Bejarano - Thatcher High School (Pitcher);
--Denise Leon - Washington High School (Infielder);
--Stacey Trevino - Sunrise Mountain High School (Infielder);
--Angela Gonzalez - Queen Creek High School (Infielder);
--Ashley Kirkpatrick - Sunrise Mountain High School (Infielder/Outfielder);
--Lauren Beck - Pinnacle High School (Outfielder); and,
--Casey Wheeler - Deer Valley High School (Outfielder).

For more information on the Phoenix College Softball Team, please call Athletic Directors Heinz Mueller at (602) 285-7124 or Scott Geddis at (602) 285-7122.

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