Sept. 28, 2005
NORMAL, Ill. -
After a tough weekend on the road, the Illinois State women's soccer team is hoping things return to `Normal' this weekend as the Redbirds suit up for two home matches at Adelaide Street Field. The `Birds begin conference play on Friday with Drake and then will hold several special ceremonies at Sunday's game vs. IPFW.
Looking to restore their winning ways, the Redbirds will play at 2:30 p.m. Friday against Valley foe Drake. Illinois State has never been victorious against the Bulldogs, with Drake leading the series between the schools 3-0-1. Drake was picked to finish second in the conference in the 2005 preseason coaches poll, though the Bulldog's record of 3-6-1 reflects a rough start. Most recently, the team notched a 3-1 home loss to Weber State on September 25.
Illinois State head coach Pete Kowall is looking forward to league play and is confident that his team will restore their winning ways.
"This is obviously something we've been looking forward to," said Kowall. "Drake has always been a good team with great players and they are also well-coached. This will be a good challenge for our team to pick up the first home conference win against a quality opponent. We had a good practice yesterday so I think we're well on our way to improving our play and scoring some goals, which has been our focus all season."
Sunday's noon matchup with IPFW will be historical in that it will be the first-ever meeting between the two schools. The Mastodons own a 3-5-2 record, with a September 25 win over Cleveland State, 2-1.
Besides the regular game-day festivities, Sunday will be a special day for the Redbird soccer program for several other reasons. The `Birds will be hosting Alumni Day, welcoming former Illinois State players and their families.
Also, the Julie Heidecke Tribute will be held, to recognize a former Redbird who was killed in 1998 in an automobile accident. The annual Heidecke award will be presented after Sunday's match, to a player who follows Heidecke's path in commitment, spirit, determination, leadership, sportsmanship, academics, morality and concern for others.
Sunday will also serve as Senior Day for the three senior student-athletes on the 2005 Redbird squad. Taylor Casement, Heather Forsyth and Joyce Kleinheinz and their parents will be recognized prior to the game.
Although winning Sunday's game will be the focus, Kowall knows emotions will be running high.
"Sunday will obviously be a very emotional day for everyone involved with Redbird soccer," said Kowall. "With the Julie Heidecke Tribute and saying thank you to three people who have been very important to our program in Taylor, Heather and Joyce, several valuable Redbirds will be recognized."
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