Softball junior Janel Salanoa was named to the College Sports Madness Sun Belt Preseason team.

The award is based on Salanoa’s numbers from last season when she led the Warhawks with a batting average of .321.

“She is very much an impact player on this team, and we will need the same type of production from her this year,” head coach Rosemary Holloway- Hill said.

It is the first time Salanoa received the honor, and Holloway-Hill said she expects it won’t be her last.

“Janel works hard at all phases of the game,” Holloway- Hill said. “There is not a slow thing about her, she gets it and goes. She has a real good work ethic.”

Last season Salanoa was in the top 10 in hardest batters for pitchers to strike out in a game.

Salanoa said, “It feels good. It means a lot and shows that we are working hard, and the team is getting recognition.”

“I’m excited about this season. I got here like a week early to practice with the team, and I’m feeling great.”

Salanoa was the only Warhawk honored with a preseason award.

The softball team opens its season on Feb. 10, playing host to its annual Mardi Gras Tournament at the Softball Complex.