Redbirds Fall to Nationally Ranked Florida; USF Game Canceled

TAMPA, Fla. – Illinois State Softball fell to No. 4/5 Florida in its first game of the day prior to the Redbirds' second game of the day being canceled due to rainy weather conditions.

The Redbirds were scheduled to play two games today, but the weather in Tampa, Fla. had other plans. Illinois State was able to get its first game in against nationally ranked Florida, but the rain started and canceled the final game of the Redbirds' opening weekend. 

BIRDS BITS (Game 1 vs. No. 4/5 Florida)

Offensive Highlights: 

• Chloe Jefferson: 2-for-2, 2B
• Emme Olson: 1-for-2
• Jayden Standish: 1-for-2
• Kaili Chval: 1-for-2, SO

Pitching Breakdown:

• Hannah Meeks (0-1): 1.0 IP, 5 H, 11 R, 7 ER, 7 BB
• Amanda Fox: 2.1 IP, 7 H, 4 R, 4 ER
• Annie Volkers: 1.2 IP, 0 H, 6 R, 1 ER, 5 BB

HOW IT HAPPENED

The Gators offense proved to be too much for Illinois State's pitching staff today as the fourth-ranked team in the country put up a hefty 21 runs, scoring seven in the first, two in the third and fourth innings, and 10 in the fifth. 

Four Redbirds were able to put the ball in play against a team that made it all the way to the Women's College World Series in 2022. Chloe Jefferson was 2-for-2 with a double while Emme Olson, Kaili Chval and Jayden Standish also recorded hits against the Gators. 

NOTES

• Hannah Meeks started in the circle for the Redbirds, making her first career appearance and start. 
• Annie Volkers entered the circle in relief for the first time this season and did not give up a hit in 1.2 innings pitched.

ON DECK

Illinois State will travel to Arizona on Feb. 16-18 to be part of the Littlewood Classic, playing games in Tempe, Ariz. hosted by Arizona State and in Phoenix, Ariz. hosted by Grand Canyon. The Redbirds' first game of the Littlewood Classic will be on Feb. 16 at 4:30 p.m. CT against Oregon State in Tempe, Ariz.

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