Alabama Crimson Tide: Perfect thoughts after a perfect game

On Monday, in front of another packed Rhoades Stadium, and national broadcast viewers, Alabama Crimson Tide pitcher, Lexi Kilfoyl threw a perfect game. A game that was close in the early innings turned into a run-ruled 9-0 win for the Crimson Tide.

Taking about Kilfoyl’s perfect game, Alabama coach, Patrick Murphy said,

"To do it against a great hitting team like Georgia is unbelievable. Lexi pitched yesterday and the plan with the pitching staff today was to split the game, but as it went on, I didn’t have a choice but to stick with Kilfoyl because nobody could do anything against her."

Thinking of Kilfoyl’s perfect feat leads to more thoughts about the Alabama Softball program. It is no small thing that when asked to comment on his pitcher’s perfect game, Murphy first chose to thank Tide softball fans. More than anyone, Murphy understands the special bond.

What Patrick Murphy has accomplished in Tuscaloosa is exceptional. In some ways, with the support of the Alabama Athletic Department, Murphy has built almost the perfect program.

In Tuscaloosa, success is measured by championships. The model for all Crimson Tide sports and college athletic programs across the nation is Alabama Crimson Tide football. Nick Saban’s program is not perfect. No program will ever reach such a pinnacle, but under Saban, Alabama Football is the measuring stick that defines success.

The Alabama Softball program has also delivered success. Patrick Murphy’s program has one National Championship, in 2012. By Crimson Tide football standards, one championship is meager. But Murphy’s program can and should be measured in other ways. The Crimson Tide has made the NCAA Tournament 23 times, followed by Women’s College World Series appearances in 13 of those seasons. Since Rhoads became the home of Alabama Softball, the home record is 604-99; 85.9% success.

Those achievements are outstanding but do not define perfect. What has made Alabama Softball near-perfect is the loyalty and love that comes from its fans. Rhoads Stadium is a large venue by softball standards. Crimson Tide fans pack it frequently. Often there is no room for all the Alabama students who wish to attend. Hopefully, the University will move to remedy that problem soon.

Alabama Crimson Tide Softball and Fan Passion

Forget the impressive, record-setting size of Rhoads Stadium crowds, the passion of the fans is what makes games there so special. It is fair to suggest no other Crimson Tide team and fans love each other more.

Note: Game details and box score from rolltide.com

Kilfoyl’s win was the sixth perfect game in Alabama Crimson Tide Softball history. At 8-4 in conference play, Alabama leads the SEC.