May 14, 2009

Contact: Brian McCann

In the midst of one of the best seasons in school history, Cleveland State head softball coach Angie Nicholson has been asked to share her expertise at two Youth Education Through Sports (YES) Clinics held during the 2009 NCAA Women's College World Series.

Nicholson, along with senior players Natalie DeMatteis and Amanda Houchin, will be a part of clinics held on May 30-31 at the Putnam City Optimist Complex in Oklahoma City, OK. As a YES Clinic clinician, Nicholson will provide instruction to boys and girls ages 10-16. DeMatteis and Houchin will serve as mentors and instructors at the clinic.

"This is a great opportunity, not just for myself, but also for Natalie, Amanda and Cleveland State Softball," Nicholson said. "The YES Clinics are great programs and I'm honored to be asked to participate. Not only will we be able to see college softball at its best, but we have an opportunity to share what we have learned with the future of sport."

YES Clinics have a long history of connecting college coaches and student-athletes with youth across the country at a variety of championships by providing youth the opportunity to receive skill instruction, conditioning tips, sportsmanship and life skills that will help them become successful student-athletes.

Parents will also have an opportunity to receive information and ask questions about NCAA academics, athlete requirements, injury prevention and sportsmanship at a special "What Every Parent Should Know!" session.

The Vikings' season continues this weekend as CSU opens play at the NCAA's Ann Arbor Regional in Ann Arbor, Mich. Cleveland State (35-16) plays Notre Dame on Friday. The double-elimination Regional also includes Miami (OH) and Michigan.