LOUISVILLE, Ky. – 2014 Division II National Champion West Texas A&M leads a strong 18-team field for the 2015 National Fastpitch Coaches Association Division II Leadoff Classic, held Feb. 6-8 at Lincoln Park North/South Complex in Tucson, Ariz.

In all, there are six nationally-ranked programs and three more that have received votes in the field of 18, while over half the participants (12) qualified for the 2014 NCAA Tournament. In addition, 2013 Gold Bracket champion Southeastern Oklahoma State is one of 10 teams that are returning for a second straight Classic.

The Lady Buffs are joined in the field by 2014 national semifinalists Dixie State and Southeastern Oklahoma State and Super Regional participants, Missouri-St. Louis and St. Mary’s (Texas). Seven programs, New Haven, Texas Woman’s, Midwestern State, Metro State, California Baptist, Western Oregon and Central Oklahoma played in the Regional round.

Rounding out the field are, Regis College (Colo.), Colorado Mesa, Fort Lewis, Molloy, Colorado St.-Pueblo and East Central University.

Over three days, this year’s classic will be divided into pool and bracket play. The teams will open with three “pool play” games, two within their pool and a third against a crossover opponent.  Following pool play, the top 16 teams will be divided into two eight-team brackets (Gold & Silver).

For more information, including scores, tickets and updates head over to our Tournament Central page.