May 17, 2006

MEMPHIS, Tenn. - Memphis freshman softball player Leila Dolfo has been named to the National Fastpitch Coaches Association (NFCA) All-South Region Second Team as a utility player after a season in which she played multiple positions and was one of the top hitters for the Lady Tigers.

One of just two freshmen selected as one of the 31 members of the South Region teams, Dolfo was also one of only two Conference USA players selected, alongside University of Houston pitcher Angel Shamblin.

"We are very excited for Leila to receive this well-deserved honor," said Coach Windy Thees. "She was a key player for us all year and was ready to play wherever we asked her to, whether it be pitcher, shortstop, or outfield."

In her first collegiate season, Dolfo played in 52 of 54 games, starting each of those, with 22 starts coming in rightfield, 20 at shortstop, six at pitcher and four at designated player.

The C-USA All-Freshman honoree ranked seventh in the league with 38 RBI and 12 doubles, while leading the U of M in walks (25) and ranking second in RBI, doubles, homeruns (5), slugging pct. (.503) and total bases (78).

In addition, Dolfo was third on the team in on-base pct. (.393), hits (47) and runs (32) and fourth in batting average (.303), while going 3-5 with a 3.20 ERA in the circle and claiming Memphis' first-ever victory in C-USA play at UAB.

"This is a great accolade for our team and for the University of Memphis," said Thees. "For Leila to be voted one of the top 16 utility players in the country is an outstanding accomplishment, especially when it comes in a region that includes the SEC and several other top conferences."