BEAUMONT, Texas – Lamar University Cardinals fans will get their first look at the finalized LU Softball Complex on Saturday when the Cards host Galveston College in a fall exhibition game. First pitch is scheduled for 2 p.m.
 
"We're excited about our first-ever fall game at home," LU coach Holly Bruder said. "Galveston always has some top players who are looking to take that next step in their careers. We're looking forward to playing them."
 
The Cardinals went 26-28 last season, finishing third in the Southland Conference Tournament, for their-best ever finish since reviving the program in 2013. LU returns three players who hit better than .300 last season, led by senior shortstop Stephanie Meeuwsen, who batted .358 last spring with two home runs, 30 RBIs and a team-leading six triples.
 
Outfielder Sarah Ragsdale (.315, 0 HRs, 13 RBIs) and catcher Brynn Baca (.305, 1, 32) also return to the LU lineup.
 
Sophomore pitcher Laura Napoli (19-17, 3.89) leads the returners on the pitching staff.
 
Fans attending Saturday's game will notice plenty of improvements that were made to the LU Softball Complex during the offseason. The new grandstand area that is covered by a roof features plenty of chairback seating along with accessible seating. A state-of-the-art sound system will help provide a more enjoyable game-day experience.
 
Admission to all fall home games at the LU Softball Complex is free. The concession stand will be open for Saturday's game.
 
"We're eager to show off the stadium now that it's finished," Bruder said. "I know our players are excited to play in a stadium atmosphere. I'm sure our fans will be impressed."
 
Saturday's game is the first of three home contests for the Cardinals this fall. LU hosts San Jacinto College at 2 p.m. Oct. 24 and Weatherford College at 2 p.m. Oct. 25.
 
The Cardinals open the spring season at the UNLV Tournament on Feb. 12. The first home games in the spring will be from Feb. 19-21 when LU conducts the Cardinal Classic, a five-team event that will feature 12 games over three days.