FSU softball opens ACC play versus Boston College

The weekend will be a big one for the Florida State softball team as it opens up ACC play at home today.

But that's not the only reason the No. 12 Seminoles (10-5) will strive to play their best.

The three-game series played against Boston College is as much a celebration as it is a competition. Alumni Weekend kicked off on Friday, followed by a Paint It Pink doubleheader Saturday and to finish the weekend off, Salute Sunday.

The team is especially excited to share this weekend with alumni after reconnecting with a few former players during the team's time in California, where the Seminoles went 3-2.

"We had great support out in California, and we want to continue to involve our alumni with current players," said coach Lonni Alameda.

Although they lost the weekend opener against then No. 13 Tennessee, Florida State finished strong, beating then No. 12 UCLA 5-1.

And as the freshmen settle into their positions on the team, the team will strengthen. An alumni weekend is just what the Seminoles need to form closer bonds.

"Getting to see the alumni and getting to know them is going to be such a great experience," freshman Jessica Warren said. "That's part of the reason I came here. You come here and know it's a family."

Becoming a part of the strong tradition at FSU is an honor for those who are fortunate enough to wear the garnet and gold.

"You take a lot of pride in wearing the Seminole jersey," redshirt sophomore, Alex Powers said. "You know everyone before you has worked so hard for it, too."

Senior pitcher Lacey Waldrop is excited to open ACC play by honoring the alumni.

"You're representing such a storied program," said Waldrop.

"It's such a huge part of being a Seminole—being able to play well on the field and represent yourself well off the field to honor those people who made this game possible for you. Without them working hard every day, we wouldn't have any of that."

It's an especially bittersweet weekend for old and new players to remember former player Dana Bailey Coya, whose father and husband will be in attendance.

Coya passed away in the fall after battling with cancer. This celebration of her life is proof of the bonds made between the team and the community.

And although the team's focus is playing Seminole softball, they still make time each week to give back and reach out to the community. Every Monday the team spends time with the cancer patients at Tallahassee Memorial Hospital.

"It's just reminding ourselves that there are people in a fight for their life," said Alameda.

"Sometimes we walk through that gate and think the day is going badly, and in reality, we're so lucky to be out there and playing some softball. Our opportunity to build the community and celebrate is pretty big."

FSU vs. Boston College

• When/Where: Today, 4 & 6 p.m, Graf Field