![]() ![]() The Wichita segment of the summer runs June 10-24 with 42 athletes playing 18 games. To be able to see another way this sport is growing and show that to a younger generation can only make for a better future for the sport." "If you can see it, you can be it," said Lucas, a third-team All-American last season. In June, some of the world's best softball players compete on the stadium's new turf within sight of more planned additions such as a practice facility, locker room and offices. Artificial turf, lights and a third-base dugout are recent additions, as is a hitting area next to the stadium. That success and those personalities are the driving force behind fund-raising for major improvements to Wilkins Stadium, some of which are complete. McKinney and other recent stars such as Cacy Williams, Mackenzie Wright, Madison Perrigan, Bailey Lange and Addison Barnard all played a role in boosting the sport, both with their performance on the field and their willingness to sign autographs, talk with youngsters and promote the sport. She earned All-America honors in 2021, 20 and led the nation in batting average in 2022 (.522) and 2023 (.520). McKinney, the top pick in last year's Athletes Unlimited draft, played a significant role in that popularity. "One of the most exciting things is to have Syd back. ![]() "Shocker softball the last couple years – we've filled the stands a few times, we've had some sold-out games," Wichita State coach Kristi Bredbenner said. With that success and charismatic Shockers such as McKinney, the sport matters and Wichita State – as with The Basketball Tournament – is a willing, enthusiastic and supportive host for events that highlight the athletic department and city. The Shockers have played in three straight NCAA regionals and five since 2016, the program's best era. And I think that this is an area and a demographic that will appreciate the caliber of play that you're going to see for 18 games in June." "The question that I've been asked the most is why Wichita?" said Cheri Kempf, director of partnership marketing at Athletes Unlimited. The Athletes Unlimited games are another piece in the story of rising softball popularity at Wichita State. Former UCLA pitcher Rachel Garcia, former James Madison pitcher Odicci Alexander, former Oklahoma infielder Caleigh Clifton and former Washington infielder Sis Bates are among the athletes who played. Last summer, ESPN2 or ESPNU televised the games. ![]() ![]() I feel like I'm growing into AU, and I still have so much family here in Wichita, so it's really cool that we're combining." Former Shocker All-American shortstop Sydney McKinney – who played in Athletes Unlimited last summer – will be one of the 42 athletes competing over the 18-game schedule. In June, Athletes Unlimited brings its unique format of professional softball to Wilkins Stadium in a demonstration of how the sport is growing and how Wichita State is part of that popularity. "I'd watch these people play for a long time," said Urban, a senior outfielder for Wichita State. Bailey Urban and Lauren Lucas watched the Athletes Unlimited Pro Softball last summer to see their friend play shortstop and to witness the growth of their favorite sport on ESPN networks. ![]()
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