The California Baptist University Lancers proved themselves to be viable competitors in the 2013-2014 season during their first year in the National Collegiate Athletic Association Division II.
With the new division, teams had to step up their game for a more intense level of play. Some teams found great success in the new division, while others fought to the finish.
- Women’s soccer finished the 2013 season with an overall 12-5-1 record. With a successful season last year, the team looks to continue doing big things in the 2014 season.
“We had a good season, and we’re definitely proud of qualifying for the NCAA play- offs,” said Lindsay Vesling, senior exercise science major and forward for the women’s soccer team. “We would have liked to advance, but it was a good learning experience that we’re hoping to build on this season.”
- Men’s water polo had an overall 15-17 record last season and hopes to improve.
“It was nice to get involved in a prestigious NCAA Conference (Western Water Polo Association) and compete at such a high level,” said Eric Carnohan, senior history major and a utility player for the men’s water polo team.
Because of the higher level of intensity, the Lancers were hard at work preparing for the challenges that come with a new division.
“Our schedule became much more rigorous. Though our season did not end on the note we had hoped for, it better prepared us for the 2014 season,” Carohan said. “We hope to make it a memorable season for Coach (Rick) Rowland and take home the WWPA Conference title.”
- The baseball team faced some challenges throughout the season, but felt the experience only benefited them.
Jake Arledge, sophomore business administration and outfielder, said the difficult baseball season was good for the team.
“We fell a little short, but overall it was a great season,” Arledge said. “We faced pretty good teams, but nothing we could not handle.”
Gary Adcock, head coach of the baseball team, said he was proud of the way the team competed.
“We had established ourselves as a contender in the NAIA and I believe we were able to maintain that in Division II,” Adcock said.
