ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – The University of New Mexico softball team held its annual end of the year banquet on Sunday to celebrate all of its accomplishments in a special 2015 season.
The banquet started off with dinner with all of the players’ family and friends. Once everyone was through the food line and things calmed down, head coach Erica Beach talked on what a special season this year was. Sports Information Director Chelsey Chamberlain followed with a season review and then the coaches and academic advisor Natalie Williams announced the team awards.
Things became emotional as teammates spoke about the four seniors and coaches and the seniors talked about their experiences as well.
Following the awards ceremony, everyone watched the highlight video, provided by LoboTV. Many tears were shed as the highlights, senior messages and coach Beach’s message was very powerful and special.
The Lobos finished the 2015 season with a 29-25 overall record and a fourth place finish in conference play with a 13-11 record. The 29 wins is the most wins in Coach Beach’s era, along with the 13 conference wins. Those 13 MW wins is the second most in program history and the fourth place finish is the highest finish since the 2007 season when the Mountain West housed only six teams.
TEAM AWARDS
MVP: Mia Hignojos
Defensive Player of the Year: Mia Hignojos
Offensive Player of the Year: Mariah Rimmer
Co-Pitcher of the Year: Carrie Sheehan and Krissy Fortner
Most Improved: Katie Gallucci
Academic Excellence: Shelbie Franc
Lobo Spirit Award: Brandi Heimburg