NORMAL, Ill. -- Last years Missouri Valley Conference champions head to Miami, Fla., this weekend to compete in the Fun in the Sun Classic at Florida International Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
The trip to Miami will mark the first time in Redbird softball history that the team will play against Florida International, Kentucky and Georgia under head coach
Melinda Fischer. The Redbirds have a record of 26-15 in the state of Florida, where they have participated in eight tournaments that include regular-season, non-conference games.
Were really excited to take the trip, said Fischer, beginning her 17th season as the head softball coach at ISU. Weve never played on the campus, so its a new venture for us. This year we have a youthful group who we look forward to seeing what they can do.
Since the fall season, the Redbirds havent had much of a chance to play outdoors, but in the last week, mother nature brought some nice weather, giving them a good opportunity to hit the dirt. The tournament in Miami will be played on Florida Internationals home field and Fischer is excited to see the positive improvements her team has made since the fall.
Our build in confidence has been crucial, especially in our hitting, said Fischer. We have a young team and have definitely made a defensive stride, but we know as a staff that it takes time to become consistent in both our inside and outside game.
Back for the Birds this year are seniors Cutie Taylor, member of the 2001 NCAA Regional All-Tournament team. Shae Wesley, who led her team in fielding percentage with a .990, and Jamie Bagnall, member of the 2001 Valley All-Tournament team. Along with the seniors, junior Corey Harris returns to the Birds this year after suffering a wrist injury during the 2000 season which landed her a medical hardship. Fischer feels these girls will play a huge role in both leadership and the lineup in Florida.
These four have been in this situation before, said Fischer. I expect them to lead by example, but also expect them to take care of themselves too. They naturally do a nice job of providing direction for their teammates outside of practices and games, so I know it will come natural in this tournament too.
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