An increase is midweek contests, two trips to Florida for prestigious tournaments and games with SEC and Big 12 schools highlight the 2013 schedule for the perennially ranked Ragin' Cajuns softball program. The schedule was announced on Wednesday.

Louisiana has scheduled 15 playing dates and a total of 23 games at Lamson Park.

The Ragin' Cajuns will have nine midweek matchups giving fans more opportunities to see the team play during the week (four Wednesdays at Lamson Park).

UL meets SEC-member Mississippi State in a home-and-home series (Feb. 13 & March 20). The Bulldogs' visit to Lafayette marks the 2013 home opener for the Cajuns.

The marquee matchups on the slate pit Louisiana against two of the nation's most recognized softball programs. The Cajuns travel to Austin, Texas, on March 6 for a twinbill with the Longhorns, then in April has set a doubleheader date in Norman, Okla., with 2012 Women's College World Series finalist Oklahoma.

"The schedule is going to challenge us again," head coach Michael Lotief said. "The idea always is to try and play the best competition, both home and away, so we can give our fans an opportunity to see some good softball and also to challenge us on the road because sometimes that is the challenge you face in postseason.