Midland College Softball hosts ‘Pack the Park’ event honoring employees and sophomore player’s fatherApril 15, 2024

Midland, TX: On April 19, the Midland College softball team faces off against the Western Texas College Westerners with a goal of not only securing two conference wins, but also with hopes to “Pack the Park” with softball lovers and Lady Chap fans and supporters.

The game, which will be held at the MC Lady Chaps Field on the Midland College campus at 12:30 p.m., is also a special opportunity for the Lady Chaps to honor sophomore infielder Lauren Lopez’s father, Richard who has been battling cancer but has completed his final treatment.

“Navigating a journey with cancer is a deeply personal experience and we are grateful that Mr. Lopez has shared his journey with the Midland College family,” said Angel Castro, Head Softball Coach at Midland College. “We can see his strength, courage and determination shine through his daughter, Lauren, every single day.”

“I am who I am because of my dad,” said Lauren Lopez. “I was always smaller than everyone but he taught me to play big – not only in softball but in life. My dad’s completion of treatment means so much to me! He has been fighting so hard and continuously teaching this team to never give up – to fight with all you have.”

She continued, “My team and coaches have been a huge support for me! They have been there for me, and without them, I don’t think I would have made it through this difficult time.”

In another special moment during the “Pack the Park” event, Midland College will be honoring three employees who work closely with the MC Lady Chap Softball Team: Associate Director of Admissions & Pathways Advising Amy Hernandez and Groundskeepers Dake Schmidt and Jacob White.

Coach Castro expressed her gratitude, saying, "Amy, Jacob and Dake have all been a pivotal part of the success of this program. Knowing that there are people who believe in these young women, who invest emotionally in their success, fuels their performance and really gives all of us a sense of purpose. Without their support, we wouldn’t be able to reach the heights we have both in the classroom and on the field."

Here's the “Pack the Park” game plan breakdown:

• 12:30 p.m. – Food service begins

  • La Patrona Taqueria LLC food truck will be on site serving tacos and Mexican food for purchase.

  • The MC Student Government Association will be on site selling waters and sodas as a fundraiser.

• 12:45 p.m. – Welcome and introduction of the starting lineups.

• 12:55 p.m. – Special employee recognition.

• 1 p.m. – Ceremonial first pitch by Richard Lopez, father of sophomore Lady Chap Lauren Lopez

• 1:05 p.m. – Start of game one.
  

We would like to encourage the community, all MC Employees (and family members), as well as our students to come out for Friday's games and help lift the Lady Chaps to 36-9 on the season.