Head coach
Melinda Fischer and the Illinois State softball team open the 2003 Missouri Valley Conference schedule Saturday at noon, as they host Northern Iowa in the first game of the year at the Redbird Softball Complex.
The Redbirds, 7-10, have been on the road since opening their season January 31 in Miami, Fla., at the Fun and Sun Classic hosted by Florida International. Fischer is ready for the Birds home-opener and is anxious to begin conference play.
We are excited to be home on our field, said Fischer. This is what it all boils down to, preparing for the conference schedule. We have learned a lot about the team and our strengths and weaknesses. We just have to be prepared to play in all aspects of the game.
Illinois State leads the overall series against Northern Iowa, 41-9-1, but in the 2002 Valley Tournament the Panthers beat the Redbirds 2-1 in game one. Illinois State returned in game six to beat Northern Iowa, 3-2.
Northern Iowa has always been a strong hitting team and are under a new coach, so it will be interesting to see any style changes, said Fischer. They are coming off an impressive tournament at San Diego State, where they won four out of five games. It is exciting to see Valley schools compete well against warm weather programs.
The series between the Redbirds and Panthers will begin with a doubleheader at noon on Saturday and conclude with a noon game on Sunday.
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