Other Women’s College World Series teams are calling, claiming the Sooners and Cowgirls unfairly have home-field advantage.
Patty Gasso, the head coach of the Oklahoma Sooners softball team, has a message for those who believe the Sooners and the Oklahoma State Cowgirls have an unfair home-field advantage at the Women’s College World Series (WCWS). The WCWS is held annually in Oklahoma City, which is close to both universities, leading some competing teams to argue that this proximity gives the Sooners and Cowgirls an edge. Gasso addresses these concerns, asserting that while being close to home is beneficial, it doesn’t guarantee success. She emphasizes that the performance on the field is what truly matters.
Gasso highlights that the WCWS location has been set in Oklahoma City for decades, and teams have had ample time to adjust to this fact. The tournament’s venue was chosen because of its central location and the excellent facilities it offers, not to favor any particular team. She believes that success in the WCWS comes down to preparation, talent, and execution rather than the location of the games.
The coach also notes that the presence of their fan base can indeed provide energy and support, but this is a common scenario in sports. Many tournaments and championships around the world are held in locations that favor certain teams. Gasso points out that other teams have their own advantages when playing at home or in familiar environments.
Furthermore, Gasso asserts that the Sooners and Cowgirls have worked hard to earn their spots in the WCWS, and their performances are a testament to their skills and determination. She encourages competing teams to focus on their own preparation and performance rather than attributing outcomes to external factors such as location.
In summary, Gasso’s message is clear: while playing close to home can offer certain benefits, it doesn’t diminish the efforts and talents of the players. She believes that the focus should remain on the athletes’ abilities and the quality of the competition, rather than the venue. The WCWS is about showcasing the best in college softball, and Gasso is confident that the best teams will shine, regardless of where the games are held.
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