Old school versus new school

It was truly a “FAMUly” affair Saturday at the Lady Rattler Softball Complex.

The alumni softball team played the Lady Rattlers in their annual affair, which began in the ‘90s.

Head coach Veronica Wiggins used the game as a way to prepare her team for the upcoming season.

“At this game, the old-school (alumni players) come back and share some wisdom and show them the pride,” Wiggins said.

One of the old-school players who participated was Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference Hall of Famer Amber Alfred.She holds the record for most games won with 27 in 1998 and was inducted into the MEAC Hall of Fame in 2010.

Alfred was excited to be back on the mound where she won so many games and led the Lady Rattlers to their first NCAA Regional appearance at Fresno State in 1999.

“The field looks amazing, and it was great to be a part of a growing program,” Alfred said.

This game also marked the first time the team has played in the renovated softball complex.

Senior outfielder Brielle Gordon hit a homerun off of former pitcher Whitney Robinson to take a 3-2 lead. The game wasn’t close after that point, but the afternoon was about more than bragging rights.

There was a scary moment when freshman pitcher Amber Fullwood was hit by a comebacker late in the contest.

With the game out of reach at 10-3, the contest was ended with the Lady Rattlers picking up the win.

After the contest, Wiggins discussed what her expectations were for the season.

“Once we put the team chemistry together, we should do very well this season,” Wiggins said.

Senior outfielder Christina Robbs was excited to play against some of her old teammates and other alumni.

“It was a great game, and we loved playing against the old school,” Christina said.

The Lady Rattlers will open their season when they travel to Macon, Ga., to take part in the Mercer Bear Classic on Feb. 7.