Softball Tourney Named
for Former CSUF Coach Judi Garman
The university’s mid-season collegiate
women’s softball tournament will be known as the “Judi
Garman Classic presented by Coach USA.”
September 15, 2005
The university’s mid-season collegiate
women’s softball tournament will be known as the “Judi
Garman Classic presented by Coach USA” beginning with
the 2006 event, which runs March 15-19 at the Titan Softball
Complex.
A three-year agreement has been reached with
Coach USA, a charter bus provider based in San Diego, and
CSUF after the expiration of an eight-year sponsorship by
Kia Motors, announced Mel Franks, associate director of athletics-media
relations. Garman coached the Titans for the first 20 years
of the program’s existence and upon her retirement was
the winningest coach in Division I history. She is enshrined
in the national Softball Coaches’ Hall of Fame.
“I am very honored to have my name now
attached to this prestigious tournament,” said Garman,
who posted a 913-376-4 career record and won the 1986 NCAA
championship. “The tournament started the same year
softball began at Fullerton [1980] and it always has attracted
the best teams in college softball.
“It has been so exciting to have great
fan support over the years while providing a showcase for
these very talented athletes. I am so pleased the tournament
will continue and am very appreciative to Cal State Fullerton
for this nice tribute.”
“Judi Garman’s name is synonymous
with excellence in fast-pitch softball, and we are excited
to be held in such company,” said Bryan O’Connell
from Coach USA. “It’s a most prestigious partnership.”
The tournament was originally sponsored by
PONY from 1980 through 1996. Half or more of the 16-team field
typically is nationally ranked, noted Franks.
“It’s the strongest assemblage
of top teams outside the Softball World Series in Oklahoma
City.” Tourney champions over the years have been Cal
State Fullerton (9 times), Arizona (4), Washington and Cal
Poly Pomona (2 each), Michigan, Fresno State, Oklahoma State,
Cal State Northridge, Louisiana-Lafayette, Arizona State and
Oklahoma.
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