Bowie, Md. – Bowie State University Head Softball Coach, Tonja Braxton has announced her second and by far most impactful recruiting class in two years, adding eleven players to the program that will begin playing for the Bulldogs during the 2020 season.
 
The group of newcomers includes nine high school players and two junior college transfers, with players hailing from as close as Elkridge, Maryland and as far as California and Florida.
 
This season reflects Braxton's second recruiting class after taking over the program in August 2017 for her second tour of duty at Bowie State. The Bulldogs finished a disappointing 12-19 in 2019 and did not qualify for the CIAA Tournament for the first time in several years.
 
The 2020 recruiting class includes five pitchers who also play other positions, three outfielders, and three catchers. The Bulldogs also add a pair of speedy lefties in the lineup and a trio of legitimate power hitters, which will strengthen what, was already a solid outfield in 2019.  
 
Incoming freshman pitcher Monet Brown (California) headlines the talented class after a standout high school career at Gardenia High School. Brown was named 2019 Player of Year in her home state. Two junior college transfers will add some seasoning to this mix as well. 
 
"We are so excited about the future of this team and feel like we are more complete than we have been in a few years", stated Braxton. "This class has pitching, catching, power, and speed and more than anything we finally we have depth.  Depth allows you to stretch your game schedule without the constant fear of injuries and fatigue.  More games translate to more opportunities to work out the kinks "early" in the season."
 
With a renewed commitment to a strength and conditioning regimen headed by Strength and Conditioning Coach Richard Reddix, the team looks well poised to make noise in the CIAA. 
 
"We are really excited about the impact we think this class will bring.  The 2019 season was challenging to say the least, but we stuck together.  I think everyone will agree a deeper bench and more options on any given day will serve us well. We can't wait to get started", said Braxton. 
 
The Bulldogs will play six dates in the fall and open on September 29 vs. Frederick Community College on the newly renovated softball field.