Lobos Add Transfer Owen to 2021 Roster
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M.— The University of New Mexico softball program has added Izzy Owen to the 2021 roster, as announced by Head Coach Paula Congleton and staff on Wednesday.
“We are extremely excited to announce the addition of Izzy Owen to our Lobo Softball family,” Congleton said.
From Manteca, Calif., Owen recently completed her sophomore season at Oregon State. Listed as a utility player, Owen appeared in 24 games in 2020, making 22 starts. The versatile newcomer has played in right field, left field, at second and third, primarily appearing in left in 2020 for the Beavers.
For the Lobos, Owen will be used as an infielder.
“She is a swift, athletic addition to our infield with great range and movement,” the Lobo head coach said. “Izzy is someone who brings experience as a lefty-hitter and slapper that will bring speed and knowledge into the lineup.”
At the plate, she batted .250 with 16 hits, including a double and a triple, accounting for seven RBI and seven runs scored. Owen was fifth on the team in RBI and hits and one of two players to hit a triple. Against Ohio State, Owen went 4-for-4 with a double, three RBI and one run, leading Oregon State to the 7-3 victory. She also carried a .294 on-base percentage while also reaching base four times on a walk.
As a freshman, Owen appeared in 38 games with 37 starts in the infield. She led OSU with three sac bunts and finished her rookie season with 18 hits, including two doubles and a home run, seven RBI, seven walks, two stolen bases (on two attempts), one sacrifice fly and a .248 on-base percentage. Her first collegiate home run came against Oregon, aiding the Beavers with a three-run home run in which Oregon State clinched the first Civil War Series win since 2012 with an 8-6 victory over the Ducks.
Prior to her time in Corvallis, Owen attended East Union High School, where her team won the Valley Oak League Championship in 2015, 2016 and 2017. In 2015, her high school won the D3 CIF San Joaquin Section on their way to winning the state championship. She earned first team all-league honors in 2015, was named the Valley Oak League MVP in 2017 and was the Valley Oak League Offensive Player in 2018.
“Izzy will bring many assets to the table having great work ethic both on and off the field,” Congleton stated.
"I chose UNM because the coaches and players welcomed me into their family with open arms during a very difficult time. I could not be more excited and proud to be a Lobo, and I am forever grateful for the opportunity to wear UNM on my chest."
- Izzy Owen
Owen intends to major in business administration at UNM.
With the addition of Owen, the Lobos will now have 10 newcomers in 2021.
