How Former Players’ Inspiring Experiences Are Guiding Cleveland State Softball Athletes
Cleveland State University (CSU) has made a bold move to reshape its athletic programs in 2025. On January 23, the CSU Board of Trustees approved the discontinuation of three NCAA sports: wrestling, women’s golf, and softball. This difficult but necessary decision comes as part of a larger strategy to address ongoing budget shortfalls and reposition CSU Athletics for long-term success.
While the decision marks the end of an era for these programs, it also sets the stage for fresh opportunities for student-athletes who will now explore new paths. Extra Inning Softball stands ready to support the talented players who will be reopening their recruitment, creating an exciting chapter for their futures.
What Led to This Transformational Decision?
The choice to discontinue these programs did not happen overnight. A working group, including representatives from CSU Athletics, faculty, and the Cleveland community, thoroughly reviewed all sports. Their focus was to align with CSU’s mission of fostering transformational student-athlete experiences while securing long-term success in academics, community involvement, and competition.
As part of these changes, CSU also announced the relocation of its Esports program to the Washkewicz College of Engineering. This move reflects the university’s innovative approach to pairing academics with emerging industries.
Supporting Cleveland State Softball Players in Transition
The discontinuation of the softball program is understandably emotional, but it also brings new opportunities for the athletes involved. Players signed for the upcoming fall will now explore other programs, and Extra Inning Softball is here to help them. Over the coming weeks, we’ll spotlight members of the Class of 2025 who are reopening their recruiting journeys.
To inspire these athletes, we spoke with Meredith Keel, a former Wright State softball player who navigated a similar experience. When Wright State cut its softball program, Keel transitioned to the University of South Alabama, where she thrived, earning multiple accolades. Her story proves that endings can lead to incredible new beginnings.
Meredith Keel’s Story: Finding Success After a Setback
When asked how she handled her university cutting its program, Keel shared, “The one thing that really helped me get through our program being cut was leaning on my support systems. My parents dropped everything to make sure I had people to lean on. All of us girls stayed really close during that time. We talked constantly and shared information with each other. Some programs we talked to might not have needed an infielder, but if they told one of us they were looking for a specific position player or pitcher, we were always good about relaying that information to our teammates. Our coaches were also huge advocates for us, always reaching out to other programs on our behalf.”
Her advice to CSU players is simple yet powerful: “Keep emailing, don’t get discouraged, and lean on each other and your faith.”
Steps for Cleveland State Athletes to Take Now
Keel offered practical steps for navigating this transition. Start by identifying your goals. Make a list of schools that match your academic and athletic priorities. For example, Keel created a spreadsheet with her father, listing schools’ academic programs, locations, and histories of competitiveness. Then, start emailing programs that meet your criteria. Persistence is key.
Athletes should also lean on their current coaches. Keel emphasized the importance of coaches advocating for players during this time. It’s also important to stay focused on the current season. Soak in every moment with your teammates while preparing for what’s next.
Why This Change Brings New Opportunities
While it’s difficult to see a program end, it’s also a chance for athletes to take their talents to new heights. Programs like Extra Inning Softball ensure these players aren’t overlooked during their transitions. Athletes can use this time to build resilience, form new connections, and find programs that align with their aspirations.
The broader implications for CSU Athletics also reflect a commitment to innovation and sustainability. By reallocating resources, CSU positions itself for long-term success in both academics and athletics.
A Bright Future for Cleveland State Athletes
Cleveland State University’s decision to cut softball, wrestling, and women’s golf marks a turning point. However, it also creates a unique opportunity for athletes to embark on exciting new journeys. With guidance and support, these student-athletes can take control of their futures and reach even greater heights.
As Keel reminds us, “You have the ability to control your response and effort through the whole process.”
These words ring true for every Cleveland State athlete navigating this transition. Together, we’ll celebrate their resilience and spotlight their next steps toward success.
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Class of 2026 Extra Elite 100 and Extra Select: Recapping the Best Catchers
| New Content | Content Descriptions | Trending & New Features | Trending & Feature Descriptions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Extra Inning Softball Influencers | Hear from top-ranked athletes from the Extra Elite 100 as they share their journey as an author of their own story. | TRENDING NEWS: The Evolution of Rankings | Bonnie Holland, CEO of Extra Inning Softball shares the inside scoop on the controversial topic of rankings & shares improvements to content. |
| Commit Crew | Meet our EIS Commit Crew as they share tips, drills, and advie on player development. | Coaches Endorse New Rankings Software | Learn more about Extra Inning Softball's new cutting-edge sofware which has been met with excitement and anticipation across the country. |
| Sports Performance | Cutting-edge content on speed training, mobility, and strength training from expert, Jacob Billingsley. | TRENDING NEWS: Introducing the Commit Crew | Hear directly from committed players heading to powerhouse programs. They share drills, advice and tips on player development. |
| Hitting/Offense Tips | Led by experts such as Paul Petricca, who dives deep into strategies and drills to elevate offensive skills. | Mental_Edge: | Led by Julie Jones, Mental Performance & Mindset Coach, provides athletes, coaches and others in the softball world the “Mental Edge. |
| Mental Edge & Agility | Success starts with mindset. Weekly insights from experts like former D1 coach, Julie Jones. | STORE | Your one-stop shop for stylish apparel, including unique styles created especially for Extra Elite 100 players. |
| Overcoming Adversity | Tips on recovery and resilience, reaturing inspiring stories from players who have faced hard times. | Committed Players/Master Verbal Database | Committed players share their journey and will be highlighted by Extra Inning Softball and added to our Master Verbal Database. |
| PODCAST | Hosted by D1 athlete Katie Lively as she tackles hot topics. | Dugout Discussion Polls | Weigh in on hot topics in the softball world. Results will be discussed in our exclusive interviews and podcast. |
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