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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