Elkton native Mickey Dean, who preceded LaPorte at JMU, left the Dukes after the 2017 season for a $250,000 salary at Auburn. For her part, LaPorte said this week shes not trying to use JMU as a stepping stone to a job at a high-major conference school, and that her Virginia roots run deep. At the end of the day, you want to look back and have no regrets.. They made history, Daniels said. Whiff. But as Newton points out, thats an approach every player should take even in ordinary circumstances. Boseman went 2-4 with 13 strikeouts in 24.2 innings last season, while Bermudez finished 6-1 with a shutout. racist or sexually-oriented language. JMU softball receives warm welcome home from fans following historic WCWS run | Sports | breezejmu.org Skip to main content You have permission to edit this article. The forward averaged 7.5 points, 4.5 rebounds and 25.8 minutes as a senior this year. Its sad because its become quite normal. Police escort in tow, team members got chills upon receiving the warm reception from supporters of all ages, from softball bat-sized fans to longtime loyal followers. "It's kind of cool to see their faces right now when they get to experience this. All rights reserved. Phone. LaPorte said JMU also provides the Dukes with everything they need to make James Madison a dynastic powerhouse. Less than 24 hours before her teams biggest series of the season began, Patty Gasso retreated to a quiet room at her house and clicked open a Zoom link. "Everybody that plays this sport, when they start rec ball, that's what you dream of when you play softball, getting to Oklahoma City. But the Dukes beat Missouri 7-2 on Sunday to win the best-of-three series 2-1. The Dukes will face No. Please subscribe to keep reading. With four of the top nine ranked teams in CIF-Southern Section Division 2, three of which are ranked in the top 8 in the state by Cal-Hi Sports, the local high school JMU softball It was definitely a lot to go through, Jubas said. Team members signed autographs, posed for photos and soaked in all the adulation. "This is probably the closest the team has ever been.". We wouldnt be where we are without you, head coach Loren LaPorte told the fans. 1:26. SEASON CANCELED:JMU softball team cancels remainder of season JMU Dukes Softball Never Backs Down From Were Accused of Wearing Blackface. Now They The Dukes were the lead item in the New York Timesmorning newsletter on June 4. We absolutely love yall.. That battle mentality speaks to the theme of this years team, never back down. And we have to work in order to compete with the Power Fives.". CNNs David Close contributed to this report. It was something our team and us as a staff had never experienced, but we had to go with it, LaPorte recalled. The JMU head softball coach said the decision to end the season was a difficult one that wasn't made lightly. In the circle, LaPorte is counting on Alexander, along with transfers Alexis Bermudez (Bethune-Cookman), Kayla Boseman (Mississippi State), and Alissa Humphrey (Jacksonville). We cant overstate how appreciative we are as you have reached out to us and continued to honor Lauren and her memory. Then came Wisconsin runner Sarah Shulze on April 13. Sign up now for daily updates sent to your inbox, JMU softball team cancels remainder of season following Lauren Bernett's death, suicide of James Madison catcher Lauren Bernett. James Madison Dukes softball - Wikipedia They have fun winning they love to win but it was fun to see them having fun in another space. JMU finished its best-ever season with a 41-4 record. She wasnt talking strategy with assistants or watching film of opponents. Discovery Company. "Being able to handle the opposing team's fans, we actually thrive from it instead of being intimated.". Humphrey picked up wins in her first two appearances as a Duke this season, including one start. It was fun to watch them have fun, not related to softball. Some student-athletes came out to support their peers, including a handful of football Dukes. Mickey Perry. So I'm not really concerned with the Power Five and all that.". JMU Softball coaching staff release statement on Lauren Bernett. James Madison University Softball Player Lauren Bernett Dies A cause of death has not been revealed By NBC Sports Staff Published April 26, 2022 Updated 10 Florida State vs. No. There was a problem saving your notification. Read "True Grit" here. After graduating, she spent the 2009 season as an assistant there before taking a similar position under Mickey Dean at Radford. Connecting with his players is one of the things he loves most about coaching, so he is always picking at them, as he calls it. JMUs trip to the WCWS this season and her CAA Coach of the Year award also triggered several performance bonuses totaling $23,197.92. JMU 'in awe' after advancing to Women's College World Series. The Dukes have been to the NCAA Division I softball tournament ni The Dukes are 39-2. Look at video. While that decision was due to the ongoing concerns of the pandemic, it also affords LaPorte the luxury of staying close to her family and watching her infant daughter grow. The use of software that blocks ads hinders our ability to serve you the content you came here to enjoy. Last season, she was part of the Dukes magical run to the Womens College World Series, catching for breakout star Odicci Alexander, but this season, Bernett was having her own breakout. Email notifications are only sent once a day, and only if there are new matching items. Reach out just to anybody.. softball But sometimes players get to the point where even that doesnt move the needle. Lots of times, that has nothing to do with softball. 8/4/2022 12:00:00 PM. I dont call them an underdog, but everyone else does. A fundraising campaign run during the Womens College World Series added $50,000 to the softball programs discretionary fund. JMU scored once in the bottom of the first. "We get a lot of blue-collar kids that want to work. Look at video. Shes been following the Dukes for five years now. Their historic run came to a close just short of the finals, falling to eventual champions #1 Oklahoma twice. JMU has won 26 straight games, including three consecutive wins over No. She died April 25 and the Western District Medical Examiners Office in Virginia told CNN Tuesday she died by suicide. She was serving as a panelist on mental health in athletics. Making History: JMU Softball upsets No. 1 Oklahoma That might be something a coach cant provide, but a coach can intervene if they know how. As many have fixated on whats been happening inside the lines at Marita Hynes Field during the Bedlam series, many in the college softball world are focusing on whats happening in the hearts and minds of players across the country. At a time college softball has more parity than ever, it also has a favorite as clear as crystal, suicide of James Madison catcher Lauren Bernett, Wisconsin runner Sarah Shulze on April 13, Racing for foul balls? No racism, sexism or any sort of -ism Google searches for James Madison University increased more than 1,000% from May 31 to June 6. Make Yahoo Your Homepage. On Sunday, April 24, she finished a monster weekend, going 4-for-4 with a homer and two doubles in the series finale against Drexel. As many have fixated on whats been happening inside the lines at Marita Hynes Field during the Bedlam series, many in the college softball world are focusing on whats happening in the hearts and minds of players across the country. HARRISONBURG, Va. James Madison softball will welcome four transfers this year, Head Coach Loren LaPorte announced Thursday. But a COVID-19 breakout forced them to withdraw from the Liberty Tournament the following weekend. Fifth-year senior ace Odicci Alexander, who earned third-team All-America honors in 2018 and 2019, has gone 4-1 with one save in this year's NCAA tournament. There is also a crisis text line. James Madison University Softball Player Lauren Bernett Dies As difficult as the past year has been, Jubas is just relieved to be playing games again. Wake up. That made Gasso think about the daily routine of her players. You can cancel at any time. Loren LaPorte, formerly Loren Messick, completed her 10th year with the softball team at James Madison University and sixth year as head coach in 2023. The pressures they face present distinct challenges, experts say. HARRISONBURG, Va. (WHSV) - The following statement has been issued from the James Madison Softball coaching staff regarding the untimely death of catcher and sophomore Lauren Bernett: Finding the words to describe what our team is going through right now feels nearly impossible. softball JMU Beats Mizzou to Reach First Women's College World Series", "James Madison shocks No. The team was in Jacksonville, Florida last March when LaPorte received word the weekend games were canceled. As much as theyre trying to do all the right things, as coaches, we think we are, too, by, This is how you win.. The Cowgirls coach has a 24-7 open-door policy. And we love the community feel.. Its kind of like the game sometimes. Oklahoma's Patty Gasso discusses mental health among college athletes. Just trying to take in every moment.". Many members of our team found comfort in knowing Lauren would always be there for them on a tough day. If you or someone you know is in emotional distress or suicidal crisis, call the U.S. National Suicide Prevention Lifeline any time day or night at (800) 273-TALK (8255). JMU was selected as the favorite to win the realigned South Division in the CAAs preseason poll, garnering seven first-place votes to total 25 points. Gasso hopes she is doing everything she can to respond. When I pick at you about your love life or your family or school or whatever it is, thats not me trying to be in your business more than you want me. However, the Jed Foundation, a national nonprofit working to prevent suicides and improve emotional health of young people, indicates the challenges of mental health have grown steadily among college students during the past five years. Softball Like her at facebook.com/JenniCarlsonOK, follow her at twitter.com/jennicarlson_ok, and support her work and that of other Oklahoman journalists by purchasing a digital subscription today. Bernett is the third Division-I female athlete to commit suicide in less than two months. Were not alone, OSU outfielder Chyenne Factor said. She leads the Dukes in home runs this season with seven, along with 21 RBIs. But a lawsuit filed last week by 24 members of the womens softball team and three coaches alleges that it was well-known on campus that the message was about them. The mound time is going to be limited. The James Madison softball team is the first Virginia team to make the Women's College World Series in 13 years. The teams run to the Womens College World Series national semifinals will forever be etched into institutional lore. The James Madison Dukes softball team represents James Madison University in NCAA Division I college softball. The team participates in the Sun Belt Conference (SBC) and plays home games in Veterans Memorial Park. JMU has won six CAA championships, including back-to-back Championships in 2016 and 2017. Gasso hopes she is doing everything she can to respond. Theyre playing games, and theyre laughing, and theyre laughing so loud securitys coming up to the room, Gasso said. or anything. Her huge heart showed grace and kindness to everyone she ever met. It was fun to watch them have fun, not related to softball. James Madison University said it will cancel the remainder of its softball season as the death of student athlete Lauren Bernett was ruled a suicide. Frankly, their mental health challenges can be exacerbated because they are athletes. 1 overall seed Oklahoma on Thursday in Oklahoma City. 2006 - Present FloSports, Inc. All rights reserved. Softball Then, Christensen asked if any of the players wanted to share with everyone. Loren LaPorte - Softball Coach - James Madison How pressure of college sports can harm athletes' mental health. Like Gasso, Gajewski asked one of the athletic departments psychologists to speak to his team recently. accounts, the history behind an article. Both were athletes at Roanoke College. Local high school softball teams have the talent to make deep JMU fourth-year head coach Loren LaPorte (center), shown celebrating with her team after Sunday's win over Missouri, is a Roanoke College graduate and a former Roanoke, Radford and JMU assistant. Data about campus suicides is difficult to come by. The Dukes have been to the NCAA Division I softball tournament nine times, hosting Regionals and Super Regionals in 2016. How you handle things is going to be based on what happens next.. She followed with an even better sophomore campaign, leading the team in batting average (.423), and smashed 14 homers, 62 RBI, and 17 doubles. Gajewski is proactive in The past year has certainly had its fair share. We realize the value of having the JMU brand and what it means throughout the entire country.. Please allow us to introduce everyone to our newest little Duke!!! Its sad because its become quite normal. She was mature beyond her years and always put others before herself, wanting everyone around her to be happy. 11:56 PM EDT, Tue May 3, 2022. appreciated. 0:02. This isnt how you win, she thought. JMU brought in $3,637,197 in revenue from its mens basketball program while paying out $3,637,197 in expenses. On the positive side, this means the program didnt lose any money - and thats not something every college sports program can claim. The head coach and 3 assistant coaches train and lead the 33 players of the JMU womens basketball team. It was during the bus ride home that the CAA officially ended the season. Their mental health is poor, and their outlook is bleak. No. This season, the Colonial Athletic Association switched to a divisional format and a shortened schedule to reduce travel. Thats something that over the last few years has seemed to be even more prominent. He also helps cover other colleges, including Radford, VMI, Roanoke, Washington and Lee and Ferrum. That might be something a coach cant provide, but a coach can intervene if they know how. It was moderated by folks from the psychological resources office in the athletic department. They also became the first-ever unseeded team to start 2-0 at the event and the first such squad to reach the WCWS semifinals. James Madison University softball James Madison athletic director Jeff Bourne addresses softball fans during a celebration welcoming the softball team home earlier this week from the Womens College World Series. Those moments include Wednesday's ESPN shoot, when the Dukes will get to flex in front of the cameras for those teases that will run during the game telecasts. However, we want others to know the impact Lauren had on each of our lives, and each member of not only our softball family, but the entire JMU community. She hit .778 and drove in seven runs during the three-game set. You have permission to edit this article. But he doesnt wait for players to reach out to him. Thats the sad part.. Then, Bernett. Ive been shaken, thinking, What if I was the coach on the other side? How JMU catcher Lauren Bernett's death rocked college Jubas is one of 14 returning letterwinners this season, along with Gordon, outfielder Logan Newton, and pitcher/infielder Odicci Alexander. She wasnt talking strategy with assistants or watching film of opponents. 2. JMU coach Loren LaPorte gives a player a hug after the team beat Missouri on Sunday to win an NCAA super regional. Institutions like ours are all going to do what they can to keep their coaches. WebCoaching career James Madison. JMU softball team wins again at Women's College World Series Loren LaPorte - Wikipedia James Madison University has announced the death of softball athlete Lauren Bernett -- one of the key players of the 2021 Women's College World Series. It was a party atmosphere; music was thumping and giveaways included posters, pom-poms, decals and streamers. I hope it inspires more people to come to the university.". So they just turned another gear and we were able to get it done.". On July 31, 2012, LaPorte was announced as an assistant coach of the James Madison softball program. It just filled my heart, and I know that I have to do more things to make this more humanized than robotic.. James Madison University announced Monday it canceled the remainder of the softball season after the death of Lauren Bernett. She led the Sooners in an activity where they split into small groups and shared how they were feeling. She served an assistant coach for five years and was AD Bourne Committed To Keeping LaPorte At JMU, If Walls Could Talk: Renovations To Historic Harrisonburg Inn Nears Completion Ahead Of JMU Graduation, Lynn, Gobblers Hand Trailblazers First District Loss, Library of Virginia Creates A Digital Map Of Virginias Deaf Communities, JMU Adds Colorado Transfer, Loses Amadi To Portal, Newly Appointed VPAS Regional Director Wins Public Service Award, Centeio Earns Chiefs Rookie Minicamp Invite, Ravenel, Thornton Receive Ravens Rookie Minicamp Invites, New Rite Aid Relieves 'Pharmacy Desert' For Town Of Grottoes, Deavers' Big Night Lifts Broadway Over East Rock, Community Input Window Counts Down For Long Range Transportation Plan. Data about campus suicides is difficult to come by. They require an intervention. LaPorte was named the interim head coach for the 2018 season, then was rewarded with the permanent role. 2023 Cable News Network. By submitting my information, I agree to the, JMU Coach Loren LaPorte Interview At 2021 PGF, Replay: James Madison vs Elon | Feb 19 @ 5 PM, NFCA Announces All-Region Honors; 17 CAA Players Garner Accolades, JMU's Hannah Shifflett Named CAA Softball Player Of The Year, Remainder Of JMU Softball Season Canceled, CAA Announces Cancellation Of JMU/Delaware Softball Series, Cookie Preferences / Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information. Mike Dagan, who led the Newbury Park High softball team to the 2018 CIF-Southern Section Division 2 championship, died of COVID-19 complications on Friday. As an institution, were going to publicly acknowledge and use the energy thats been created by our softball program to benefit and showcase the entire university, Bourne said. JMU 'in awe' after advancing to Women's College World LaPorte acknowledged the impact the cancellation may have on graduating students whose careers have come to an abrupt conclusion, vowing the university will ensure theyre also honored for their contributions to JMU as student athletes. This isnt how you win, she thought. Go to practice. JMU has won six CAA championships, including back-to-back Championships in 2016 and 2017. Its just screaming for help.. An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup. Their mental health is poor, and their outlook is bleak. Absolutely," LaPorte said. Boseman and Bermudez joined the Dukes in 2020. As much as theyre trying to do all the right things, as coaches, we think we are, too, by, This is how you win.. On September 10, LaPorte gave birth to Harper, her second child. The Dukes were 13-6 in 2020 before the shutdown. Keep it Clean. And the JMU faithful will never forget the magical ride of 2021. But sometimes players get to the point where even that doesnt move the needle. Theyre playing games, and theyre laughing, and theyre laughing so loud securitys coming up to the room, Gasso said. Get an email notification whenever someone contributes to the discussion. Whenever mid-major programs have success, its almost incumbent it seems that interest on a national level increases. LaPorte and JMU have renegotiated and extended her contract twice since she took over for Dean in 2017 on a one-year deal. Seeing your roommate has washed the dishes. JMU Softball gets exuberant welcome home after making And its just over and over and over and over again, Gasso said. Sometimes, I feel like I cant breathe.. Tahj Bullock and Devin Farrell elected to enter the transfer portal with the intent of continuing their college careers elsewhere.

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