Season Outlook/Career Notes: Cowger will serve as the Gophers’ bullpen catcher again in 2008. “Kate works very well with our pitching staff,” said Bernstein about the Michigan native. “She will be critical to their continued improvement as the season progresses.”

2007 Freshman Season: Did not appear in any contests for Minnesota • redshirted • led summer travel team, Michigan Outlaws, to 2007 USSA State Tournament championship game.

High School: A graduate of Fenton High School • high school coaches were Kelly Jones and Dave Lazar • two-year all-conference, all-county and all-area selection • led her team to three consecutive state finals appearances • four-year letterwinner • helped her summer team to the 2005 ASA state championship • 2006 Academic All-State selection • Metro League Scholar Athlete • academic letterwinner • valedictorian of her high school class • member of the National Honor Society.

Personal: Pre-management major • daughter of Dave and Annette Cowger • born Sept. 2, 1988.