Oklahoma State University Athletics
Ward Named USA Softball Player of Week
March 09, 2010 | Cowgirl Softball
March 9, 2010
STILLWATER, Okla. -- Sophomore first baseman Julie Ward has been named USA Softball Collegiate Player of the Week by the Amateur Softball Association it was announced today. This is the first time that Ward has earned the honor and just the second that an OSU player has won. Courtney Totte won the award in 2007.
Ward in being recognized for the week of March 1-8, where she helped the No. 19 Cowgirl softball team to a 5-0 record including a 1-0 victory over Bedlam rival and eleventh-ranked Oklahoma. The Alta Dena, Calif., native was 6-for-12 with all extra-base hits including a double that would put her on base to score the lone run against OU, ending a 15-game losing streak against the Sooners.
"I am truly humbled by this award. I never thought in a million years, with all the other very talented softball players out here, that I would be up for this award. I want to give credit to my coaches, teammates and family for their never-ending support," said Ward. "Mostly I am really happy that Oklahoma State is finally getting the National recognition that we have worked so hard for.
Ward had at least one hit in every game last week. Her best offensive performance came against then-No. 17 Louisville on Saturday morning, when she hit an RBI double and a grand slam home run to account for all five runs batted in. She went 1-for-2 with a double and two RBI in the win over Louisville, and scored the lone run for Oklahoma State against then-No.8 Oklahoma in the victory.
"Julie has been playing well all season and has worked hard to become the player she is," said Oklahoma State Head Coach Rich Wieligman. "I am glad to see it pay off. It is always nice to receive conference honors, but for her to receive National recognition is something that is really special."
Ward's extra base hits included four doubles and two home runs for a .500 average. She had a 1.333 slugging percentage and with five walks, a .647 on-base percentage. Ward finished the week with 10 RBI and three runs scored.
Oklahoma State advanced from No. 24 to No. 19 in this week's ESPN.com/USA Softball Collegiate Top 25 Poll.
