Head coach
Melinda Fischer and the Illinois State softball team went to the Chicagoland Fall Classic to gain experience against other Division I programs. The Redbirds came back with three victories.
Although the tournament ran Friday, September 13 through Sunday, September 15, the Redbirds played their three games on Sunday only. First, Illinois State took on conference rival and tournament host, Bradley. The Redbirds defeated the Braves, 4-0. Senior Corey Harris was at the mound and gave up two hits.
Next up for Illinois State was IUPUI, and the Redbirds recorded a 3-0 victory. Freshman pitcher Sheila Emms gave up four hits.
The final game of the day for the Redbirds brought on Big Ten opponent, Purdue. The Redbirds scored four runs in the first inning and went on to defeat the Boilermakers, 7-2. Senior pitcher Audra Rast gave up five hits, four of which came in the final inning.
Fischer was happy with the outcome of the day and feels the competitve exposure will better prepare her team for the spring season.
Today we went with three completely different line-ups for each game, said Fischer. At this tournament we continued to switch players around, and there was a different infield and outfield for each game. The players took advantage of the opportunity to play some different positions, and it helped us evaluate where we are at as a team.
The Redbirds fall schedule continues next Sunday, September 22, as they travel to Iowa City for the University of Iowa Invite.
