University Star

The Texas State softball team suspended two players indefinitely and seven players in total over the weekend for “violating team rules,” according to Coach Ricci Woodard.

“We have two that we let go and five that we suspended for the weekend,” Woodard said.

Woodard would not name the seven players suspended, but did mention that the suspensions were handed down by her in an interview on Monday. The following players were absent from the box score at the Hilton Houston Plaza Classic this weekend:

• Anna Hernandez, senior second baseman
• Selena Hernandez, sophomore shortstop
• Brittney Garcia, sophomore outfielder
• Alli Akina, sophomore outfielder

• Timishia North, junior utility

• Delia Saucedo, junior pitcher

• Courtney Harris, sophomore third baseman

The Bobcats were predicted to finish first in the WAC this year in the Preseason Softball Coaches Poll.

Athletic Director Larry Teis said in a statement that players “did not break university or departmental policies. They had an issue between player and coach. So, (Coach Woodard) made the decision to suspend them.”

Selena Hernandez led Texas State in several offensive categories last season, including at-bats (183), runs (28), hits (55) and RBI (26). Anna Hernandez led the 2012 team in on-base percentage (.381), was tied for first in home runs (3) and was second in hits (49) and total bases (65).

Harris hit .229 last season with one home run, three doubles and 13 RBI. Garcia, who is primarily used as a pinch runner, hit .200 last season with four steals.

North, Akina, and Saucedo joined the Bobcats for the first time this year. The Bobcats went 0-5 this weekend to start the 2013 season.

“The good part is this weekend is behind us, and we get five of them back, and we move forward,” Woodard said. “When you violate team rules, there are consequences, and you move forward.”