Lacey Bertucci has older acquaintances who told her what to expect in college.

What they didn't tell her was what life would be like as a member of Louisiana's Ragin' Cajun softball program.

"It did surprise me, how supportive people are," Bertucci said. "The people, the atmosphere, the teachers and the administration, they're so outgoing and so kind.

"I'll be in Albertson's and someone will yell, 'Hey, No. 33, how's it going?' I don't even know their name, but it's great to see the smile on their face when they recognize me."

Bertucci knew the Cajuns had a winning program when she signed with UL from Covington High School, but she also had an eye for that supportive community.

"I liked the tradition here, and also the family atmosphere," Bertucci said. "It was hard leaving my mom and dad, and it's great having them here for our games. I always know where they are."

Bertucci has also found an extended family in her UL teammates.

"We're always in each other's business," Bertucci said. "We're like sisters, we really are. That's one of the things that makes us a team."

The Cajuns open Sun Belt Conference play this weekend with a visit from improved New Mexico State, and they'll count on continued production at the plate by their sophomore first baseman.

After hitting .266 as a freshman with nine home runs and 40 runs batted in, Bertucci has improved to a team-leading .349 average and 10 homers and already has 29 RBI for the 24-7 Cajuns.

"It's hard work, dedication and confidence," Bertucci said. "Confidence comes from your teammates, your coaches and your parents. They get you through every day.

"We've got each others' backs. When someone gets down, we snatch them back up and tell them, 'next pitch' or 'next at-bat.' If they make a mistake, that's over, let's play."

That kind of positive reinforcement has been a big factor in Bertucci's growth as a player.

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Bruce Brown
bbrown@theadvertiser.com