Sept. 21, 2009

COLUMBIA, S.C. - The sounds of spring have started up at Beckham Field in the fall as the Gamecocks began their full-team practices on Monday afternoon in preparation of the 37th year of South Carolina softball.

Head coach Joyce Compton returns seven starters, four pitchers and 13 letter-winners in all from last year's squad. And in a change from past offseason workouts, the Gamecocks have to prepare for action, as the Gamecocks will play four doubleheaders against in-state schools over a five-week period.

"We need to get everyone on the field and see where they fit," said Compton. "It's going to be different for us getting ready to play games this fall. We have done a lot of live hitting already, and the kids have been consistent in what they've been doing. They are definitely ready for today."

Every player has expressed excitement about the full practices starting, and they are especially thrilled to play in the fall games set to begin on Friday. The Gamecocks will face Spartanburg Methodist College at 5 p.m. at Beckham Field to begin their fall exhibitions.