Utica, N.Y. - the SUNY Poly softball squad has etched its name in the NCAA Division III record book, after being named the 2024 statistical leader in doubles and triples nationwide. Additionally, star player Kimberly Birmingham was named as the Division III statistical leader in on-base percentage (.652). It is the first time softball has been recognized as a statistical leader since the 2012 season.
From the jump, the SUNY Poly softball team was a force to be reckoned with at the plate, ripping off a seven-game winning streak while in Myrtle Beach and never looking back. The Wildcats would continue to pile it on throughout the season, as every single Wildcat batter would end the season with at least two doubles to their name. All but three Wildcat batters would register a triple in the season.
"I knew that triples would be something that was obtainable by this team early on this season," said SUNY Poly Softball coach Juleah Wanner. "After our spring trip, we had a very high number of triples, So it became something that we kept our eye on all season and was a goal of mine to accomplish. Doubles just happened in the process of chasing triples!"
SUNY Poly would end the season with a total of 83 doubles and 30 triples, which averages out to 2.3 doubles per game and .83 triples per game. Kimberly Birmingham topped the doubles list for SUNY Poly, ending the season with 16. As for triples, outfielder Alivia Turk led the charge for the Wildcats, completing the season with eight.
"The overall love for the game of softball and team chemistry has played a huge role in our success," said Wanner. "When you can show up and play softball with a group of your friends and feel supported no matter what the outcome is, a lot of great things happen."
Kimberly Birmingham was not only the leader in doubles for SUNY Poly, but she was also recognized as a Division III Softball statistical leader after ending the season with the highest on-base percentage of anyone in the country. This recognition is just a cherry on top for Birmingham, who finished the season with an impressive slash line of .560/.652/.868. Birmingham also led the team in runs batted in with 45, while also striking out only six times in her 115 plate appearances.
"None of this would have been possible without the unwavering support of my amazing teammates and coaching staff," said Birmingham. "They've been my pillars every step of the way, offering guidance, encouragement, and invaluable feedback. Our coaches have gone above and beyond, tailoring practices to simulate game scenarios and pushing me to grow as a player."
Wanner, Birmingham, and the rest of the team will look to carry their momentum into next season, when they enter the competitive Empire 8 Conference.
"I'm eager to build upon our achievements as a team and continue contributing to our shared goals," said Birmingham. "This season has truly demonstrated what we can accomplish together, and I feel privileged to be part of such an exceptional group."
