August 27, 2008

DAVID MARTINEZ HIRED AS ASSISTANT SOFTBALL COACH

CLEVELAND - Delta State head softball coach announced the hiring of David Martinez as the assistant softball coach for the Lady Statesmen.

Martinez spent the last year as a graduate assistant softball coach at Sul Ross State University in Texas, while earning his master of education in physical education, graduating in May 2008.

Five years earlier, Martinez was a baseball player for the Division III school, earning a bachelor of science degree in kinesiology and sports medicine in May of 2003. Martinez has also played in the Mexican Professional Baseball League, as well as leagues across the United States.

After graduation, Martinez worked as a coach and physical education teacher at Del Rio Junior High and High School, the same high school he graduated from in 1996. Martinez also volunteered as a coach in summer recreational baseball leagues.

Martinez, born August 2, 1978, is the son of Gilbert and Cookie Martinez, and has one brother, Gilbert Martinez III.

August 1, 2008

LADY STATESMEN SET ALUMNI REUNION WEEKEND DATES

CLEVELAND - Delta State University head softball coach Casey Bourgoyne announced Friday, August 1 the dates for the biannual Lady Statesmen Softball Alumni Weekend.  The event will be held in conjunction with “Pig Picking” festivities Friday and Saturday, Sept.  12-13, 2008.  All former players, coaches and trainers are invited to attend and take part in this Delta State tradition. 

Some of the activities taking place include a dinner social held at the softball field, as well as, live music at Statesmen Park on Friday night and all day tailgating at Statesmen Park beginning at noon on Saturday. 

Hotel rooms in the area are limited so hurry and reserve your room today.

For more information please contact Casey Bourgoyne at (662) 846-4288 or email her by clicking here.

July 10, 2008

DELTA STATE ATHLETICS TO HOST SOCIAL FOR NEW SOFTBALL COACH JULY 15

CLEVELAND – Delta State University Athletics cordially invites fans and supporters of Lady Statesmen softball to a meet-and-greet for new head coach Casey Bourgoyne Tuesday, July 15 at The Warehouse. The event will begin at noon and lunch will be Dutch treat. Fans and supporters are encouraged to drop by and meet one of the top young coaches in the country.

“We’re very excited about adding coach Bourgoyne to our staff. She is a proven commodity and one of the greats to ever wear a Lady Statesmen uniform. We have no doubt she is going to take this program to the next level,” stated Jeremy McClain, Director of Athletics.

Bourgoyne officially took over the program on July 1 after the departure of David Kuhn to the University of Central Arkansas. The Walker, La., native was a three-time All-Gulf South Conference selection for the Lady Statesmen at shortstop from 1999-2002.

After completing her playing career, Bourgoyne launched her coaching career as a graduate assistant for Delta State. After completing her master’s degree in sports management, she became the top assistant to coach Jeremy Reece at the University of North Alabama.

While at UNA, the Lady Lions posted a 136-82 record and returned to postseason play for the first time since 2000. In 2005, Coach Bourgoyne helped guide UNA to a 36-20 finish and a trip to the GSC Tournament. One year later, North Alabama went 40-20 and advanced all the way to the NCAA South Region Tournament in Lakeland, Fla.

“I am truly blessed to have this opportunity. Delta State is a special place and the people who work, support and care for this university are the reason why. We have hit the ground running and I hope to have the opportunity to meet with you all on Tuesday at The Warehouse,” Bourgoyne said.

The social will begin at noon in The Warehouse’s second floor art gallery. For more information, please contact the Delta State Department of Athletics at (662) 846-4300 or via email at athletics@deltastate.edu.

June 23, 2008

CASEY BOURGOYNE TABBED TO LEAD LADY STATESMEN SOFTBALL PROGRAM

CLEVELAND – As one of the top shortstops in the Gulf South Conference from 1999-2002, Casey Bourgoyne made all the plays for the Lady Statesmen. As of Monday, the three-time All-GSC standout will be expected to call them, as Bourgoyne was named the new head coach of the Lady Statesmen Softball program effective July 1. Her hiring also has historical implications, as she will become the first female head coach and the first former Lady Statesmen to lead the program in Delta State softball history.

“It’s a tremendous honor for me to be given this opportunity to come back to Delta State. Coach David Kuhn has laid a great foundation here at DSU, and I am excited about the chance to take Lady Statesmen Softball even farther,” Bourgoyne said.

After completing an outstanding four-year career with the Lady Statesmen, Bourgoyne began her coaching career as a graduate assistant for former coach David Kuhn in 2003. After two successful seasons as a graduate assistant, she moved to the University of North Alabama where she has spent the past four seasons as the primary assistant to head coach Jeremy Reece.

While at UNA, the Lady Lions posted a 136-82 record and returned to postseason play for the first time since 2000. In 2005, Coach Bourgoyne helped guide UNA to a 36-20 finish and a trip to the GSC Tournament. One year later, North Alabama went 40-20 and advanced all the way to the NCAA South Region Tournament in Lakeland, Fla.

Bourgoyne finished her playing career at Delta State in 2002 after four years at shortstop. When the Walker, La., native put down the glove, she ranked first all-time in GSC history in assists and she also held the record for assists in a single season. Bourgoyne is also a member of a select club of Lady Statesmen who have been named to the All-GSC Team at least three times. In Delta State softball history, only six have accomplished the feat.

“Casey is one of the up-and-coming young coaches in collegiate softball and we are very excited she has chosen to come and lead our program,” stated Jeremy McClain, Director of Athletics. “After a thorough search process, she was clearly the leading candidate and we are proud to welcome her back to Delta State. She will officially begin her role as head coach on July 1.”

Bourgoyne will be officially introduced to the community at an event planned for the week of July 14. More information about the event will be released at a later date.

May 29, 2008

STRAHAN CHOSEN TO LEAD DELTA STATE SOFTBALL SEARCH COMMITTEE; NATIONWIDE SEARCH IN FULL SWING

CLEVELAND – With a firm timetable in hand, Dr. Rose Strahan, Chair of the Department of Mathematics and NCAA Faculty Athletics Representative at Delta State University, has been chosen to direct a talented committee charged with the task of selecting the next head coach of the Lady Statesmen softball program, as announced by Director of Athletics Jeremy McClain on Thursday. McClain hopes to have a new coach in place by the end of June.

“Dr. Strahan was the first person I contacted about serving on the search committee. She has served DSU faithfully for many years and has directed several nationwide searches for the Department of Athletics before. I believe she is the leader we will need to find the right mix of coaching, character, leadership and integrity that will take this program to new heights,” stated McClain.

The eight member committee was chosen by the Director of Athletics to best represent Delta State University and Lady Statesmen softball. Joining Dr. Strahan on the committee will be Dana George (Asst. AD/Senior Women’s Administrator), Dr. Myrtis Tabb (Asst. Vice President for Partnerships and Interim Director of Human Resources), Dr. Jimmy Avery (Community), John Cox (Community), Dr. Tracey Mims (Faculty), Ann Margaret Mullins (Director of Financial Aid), and Kristi Basso (Student-Athlete).

The Department of Athletics will continue to accept applications through Friday, May 30. At that time, Dr. Strahan and the search committee will begin narrowing the applicant pool. The week of June 9, the committee will begin telephone interviews with the week of June 16 targeted for on campus interviews. Shortly after the on campus interviews are concluded, the committee will make its recommendation to McClain.

“Our program has been among the most successful in the Gulf South Conference for many years, and our facilities are second-to-none in NCAA Division II. We believe Delta State has a lot to offer the right person for the position and we hope to set events in motion that will bring them to DSU for many years to come,” concluded McClain.

The next head coach of the Lady Statesmen will officially take over the program on July 1. For more information on the search, please contact the Department of Athletics at (662) 846-4300 or email us at athletics@deltastate.edu.

May 9, 2008

BRITTANY TILLERY AND SAM ST. HILAIRE GARNER DAKTRONICS AND NFCA ALL-REGION ACCOLADES

CLEVELAND – Delta State University junior outfielder Brittany Tillery and senior utility player Sam St. Hilaire have been named to the National Fastpitch Coaches Association All-South Region Second Team, as released on Thursday by the NFCA. It’s the first NFCA honor for both players. Tillery was also named to the Daktronics All-South Region Second Team on Wednesday.

The duo guided the Lady Statesmen to a 33-26 overall finish and an 18-10 mark in Gulf South Conference play. DSU wrapped up its season last week at the GSC Tournament.

Tillery turned in one of the greatest singular performances in Lady Statesmen history this season. The junior of Starkville led DSU in batting (.450), hits (76), runs (51), home runs (9), RBIs (41) and stolen bases (27). Tillery’s .450 batting average led the GSC, while her 76 hits and 51 runs scored ranked in the top five in both categories.

St. Hilaire continued to shine in her dual role as a pitcher and designated player for the Lady Statesmen. The senior of Turner, Maine batted .331 with 10 doubles, one triple and 16 RBIs. She was also 8-6 in the circle with a 2.86 ERA in 23 appearances.

May 9, 2008

EIKNER AND NIEBRUGGE NAMED TO CoSIDA ACADEMIC ALL-REGION TEAM

CLEVELAND –Academic and athletics go hand-in-hand at Delta State University, and nowhere on campus is that demonstrated more clearly than University Field. The Lady Statesmen Softball program over the years has enjoyed tremendous success on the field and in the classroom. Thursday, that commitment to academics was rewarded again, as Brittany Eikner and Chasey Niebrugge were named to the College Sports Information Directors of America Academic All-Region Team.

Eikner, a sophomore shortstop of Grenada, was named to the Academic All-Region First Team after completing the year with a 4.00 GPA in biology. The speedster played in 58 games for the Lady Statesmen this season and led DSU to a 33-26 overall record. Along the way, Eikner hit .291 with one home run and 20 RBIs. In 185 chances at shortstop, she committed only eight errors for a .957 fielding percentage.

Niebrugge, a senior second baseman of Bonita Springs, Fla., was named to the Academic All-Region Second Team. She finished second on the club this season with a .344 batting average, while maintaining a 3.84 GPA in elementary education. The two-time Academic All-Region selection led the Lady Statesmen with 19 doubles this season and drove in another 34.

All CoSIDA Academic All-Region First Team selections are now eligible for Academic All-American. The CoSIDA Academic All-America Team will be released later this month.

May 5, 2008

KUHN RESIGNS TO TAKE POSITION AT CENTRAL ARKANSAS; DELTA STATE BEGINS SEARCH FOR NEW HEAD COACH

By Travis Chamblee, Softball Contact, and Matt Jones

CLEVELAND - After 10 years, two Gulf South Conference West Division titles, 368 wins and a trip to the NCAA South Region Tournament, the David Kuhn chapter of Delta State University softball has come to a close.

After taking over a program that was headed in the right direction, posting four-straight winning records, Kuhn took the team to new heights.

The Greenville native and Delta State graduate continued a streak of 14-straight winning seasons, winning at least 35 games six times during his tenure. He coached 13 different players to National Fastpitch Coaches Association All-Region honors and one to an NFCA All-American selection.

During his tenure, Kuhn proved to be a man with foresight for the future and a desire to improve every aspect of the program. In his 10 years, Kuhn helped direct vast improvements to the field and the facilities at University Field. The Lady Statesmen enjoy a lighted complex with a fan-deck in rightfield, as well as a full-service locker room. With a career record of 368-221, Kuhn has the distinction of owning the most wins and losses of any head coach at DSU.

It is this success that landed the Kuhn family in Conway, Ark., on Tuesday, May 5, as Dr. Brad Teague, Director of Athletics at the University of Central Arkansas, announced Kuhn as the new head coach of the Sugar Bears.

“I would like to wish coach Kuhn, his wife Sharon, and their daughters, Taylor and Cheyenne, all the best at UCA. They have worked hard to make DSU softball the best it can be and they will truly be missed by the Delta State athletic community,” stated Jeremy McClain, Director of Athletics at Delta State.

Delta State will initiate a national search for a new head coach immediately. McClain concluded, “We will move quickly to find the next head coach of the Lady Statesmen, but we will also make sure we are finding the right person for the job. Delta State is a special place, with special people, and I know we’ll have a great level of interest.”

May 3, 2008

LADY STATESMEN ELIMINATED FROM GSC TOURNAMENT WITH 6-2 LOSS TO LADY LIONS

By Travis Chamblee, Softball Contact

• Box Score

SOUTHAVEN - The Lady Statesmen were eliminated from the Gulf South Conference Tournament after a 6-2 loss to North Alabama on Saturday at Greenbrook Park. It was the second-straight loss for the Lady Statesmen at the tournament.

The Lions (25-18) struck first with two runs in the top of the first inning on a two-RBI single by Jennifer Sharp.

The Lady Statesmen (33-26) had a chance to answer in the bottom of the first with the bases loaded and one out, but UNA pitcher Sabrina Roberts worked out of the jam without a run crossing the plate.

North Alabama added two more in the top of the second when two runs scored on Lindsey Bates’ single to leftfield to give the Lions a 4-0 lead.

The Lady Statesmen got on the board in the bottom of the third when Brittany Tillery scored on Erica Harris’ sacrifice fly.

The Lions added two more on a two-run home run by Sharp to stretch the lead to five.

The Lady Statesmen pushed another run across in the bottom of the fifth as Tillery scored again, but couldn’t cut into the lead any more.

Edie Oliver (10-10) was charged with the loss, giving up six runs, five earned, on six hits in five innings.

Roberts (10-5) earned the win, allowing two runs, one earned, on nine hits in seven innings.

May 2, 2008

LADY BLAZERS RALLY FOR 7-6 WIN OVER LADY STATESMEN IN GSC TOURNAMENT OPENER; DSU FACES UNA ON SATURDAY

By: Travis Chamblee, DSU Softball Contact

• Box Score

SOUTHAVEN – The Delta State University Lady Statesmen Softball team had the favored Valdosta State Lady Blazers on the ropes for most of their Gulf South Conference first round game, but in the end, it was the Lady Blazers who were victorious and advanced to the winner’s bracket of the GSC Tournament with a 7-6 win over Delta State.

The Lady Statesmen (33-25) took advantage of two Lady Blazer errors in the top of the second, and Chasey Niebrugge hit a two-RBI double to give the Lady Statesmen a 4-0 lead.

Valdosta State (47-15) cut the lead in half in the bottom of the second when Andi Braswell’s RBI-double plated two runs. The Lady Blazers then tied the game at four in the bottom of the third with RBIs by Kristina Ely and Shannon Cleland.

Brittany Tillery (9) put the Lady Statesmen back on top with a blazing two-run home run over the leftfield fence in the top of the fourth inning.

The Lady Statesmen were just five outs away from advancing in the bottom of the sixth inning when the Lady Blazers’ bats caught fire. Two singles and a walk loaded the bases for the Lady Blazers, and they took advantage of the situation quickly.

Britni Adcox got the second out of the inning as Audrey Massingill’s line-drive found the glove of Amber Hass in right field. Alex Acosta then drew an RBI-walk and Robin Williams hit, what proved to be the game-winner, a two-RBI single back up the middle to give the Lady Blazers a 7-6 lead.

Ashley Hill (15-4) earned the win in relief of starting pitcher Kristen Lindsey. Hill pitched 3.2 innings, giving up just one run on three hits.

Kate Moreland was charged with the loss, giving up three runs on three hits in 3.1 innings in relief. Starting pitcher Sam St. Hilaire allowed four runs on two hits and four walks in two innings.

The Lady Statesmen will face North Alabama in an elimination game Saturday, May 2, at 9:30 a.m. J.T. Webb will broadcast the game on the Lady Statesmen Sports Network starting at 9:20 a.m.

May 2, 2008

LADY STATESMEN PLACE SIX ON ALL-GSC FIRST OR SECOND TEAMS

By: Travis Chamblee, Softball Contact

BIRMINGHAM , ALA. - The Lady Statesmen of Delta State University placed six players on the Gulf South Conference’s All-GSC First or Second Teams, as released by the conference office. Second baseman Chasey Niebrugge, outfielder Brittany Tillery and pitcher/DH Sam St. Hilaire earned All-GSC First Team honors, while third baseman Chelsea Carr, pitcher/first baseman Britni Adcox and shortstop Brittany Eikner were named to the All-GSC Second Team after leading the Lady Statesmen to a 33-25 record during the regular season and the program’s 23 rd consecutive Gulf South Conference Tournament.

Tillery earned her second consecutive All-GSC First Team honor as an outfielder after leading the league in batting average (.438), and the team in home runs (9), RBIs (41), and she is 27-of-29 in stolen bases.

Niebrugge, also a two-time All-GSC First Team selection at second base, is second on the team in batting average (.352), and leads the GSC with 19 doubles. She is also second on the team with five home runs and 34 RBIs.

Sam St. Hilaire earned All-GSC First Team honors as an outfielder, making her the fifth player in Lady Statesmen history to earn All-GSC honors all four years. St. Hilaire hit .339 with 10 doubles and 16 RBIs, and had an 8-6 as a pitcher.

Third baseman Chelsea Carr and shortstop Brittany Eikner earned their first All-GSC nods. Carr hit .283 with 13 RBIs and had a .941 fielding percentage.

Eikner hit .293 with 20 RBIs and a team-high 18 sacrifice bunts, and had a .967 fielding percentage.

Adcox earned her third consecutive All-GSC honor as a pitcher, posting a record of 4-1 and a GSC-high eight saves. She also hit .304 with 20 runs scored and six RBIs.

April 29, 2008

LADY STATESMEN BEGIN QUEST FOR GSC CROWN

By Travis Chamblee

• Lady Statesmen Tournament Notes
• GSC Tournament Web Page
• Complete GSC Tournament Bracket

CLEVELAND - The Lady Statesmen begin their quest for the Gulf South Conference Championship Friday, May 2, against Valdosta State University in Southaven at 9:30 a.m.

The Lady Statesmen finished the regular season with a home sweep of division foe Ouachita Baptist to improve their record to 33-24. The Lady Statesmen earned the No. 3 seed out of the West Division with an 18-10 record against GSC opponent.

Delta State is just 6-8 against teams in the tournament, and the Lady Statesmen haven’t faced either No. 1 East seed Alabama-Huntsville or No. 2 East seed Valdosta State. West Florida and North Alabama earned the No. 3 and No. 4 seeds out of the East.

Arkansas Tech earned the West Division’s No. 1 seed after winning the school’s first-ever West Division Championship. Henderson State claimed the No. 2 seed and Arkansas-Monticello won the final spot.

The tournament will take place May 2-4 at the Greenbrook Softball Complex in Southaven. All games will be web-cast at www.gulfsouthconference.org, and J.T. Webb will bring the action to you on www.gostatesmen.com.

 

April 24, 2008

IT’S ALL GOOD WITH DELTA STATE’S LATEST SIGNEE
By Travis Chamblee, Softball Contact

CLEVELAND - Delta State head softball coach David Kuhn announced the signing of Wallace State standout Brooke Allgood.

As a freshman, Allgood hit .303 with seven doubles, a triple, and 20 RBIs, and had an on-base percentage of .480.

In the circle, Allgood had a record of 14-1 with 65 strikeouts in 84 innings pitched. She had a team-leading 0.92 ERA. She threw nine complete games and six shutouts.

Allgood attended Oak Grove High School in Birmingham, Ala., where she was named a three-time All-County Most Valuable Player. She also earned All-State honors and was the All-Star Tournament MVP.

“Brook (Allgood) is an outstanding athlete. She has a live arm with great control, and she can handle a bat very well,” said Kuhn. “She will help solidify our rotation and boost our offense.”

April 19, 2008

LADY STATESMEN SWEEP LADY TIGERS 3-0 AND 5-2 ON SENIOR DAY
By Travis Chamblee, Softball Contact

CLEVELAND - The Lady Statesmen sent their six seniors out in style, sweeping the Lady Tigers of Ouachita Baptist University (22-30, 9-16 Gulf South Conference) 3-0 and 5-2 in the final doubleheader of the regular season at University Field.

The Lady Statesmen (33-24, 18-10 GSC) got on the board first in the bottom of the first inning when Brittany Tillery scored on a wild throw to third base. Erica Harris then drove in Chasey Niebrugge with a double, giving Delta State a 2-0 lead.

The Lady Statesmen added another run in the bottom of the sixth when Sam St. Hilaire drove in Ashley Holder, who was pinch running for Chelsea Carr.

St. Hilaire (8-6) earned the win in her final home appearance, giving up just three hits in 6.1 innings. Britni Adcox earned the save, her seventh of the season and 15 th career, getting the last two outs.

Sara Hanson (4-8) was charged with the loss, allowing three runs, two earned, on six hits in six innings.

In the second game, the Lady Tigers struck first, scoring two runs in the top of the third inning on a two-RBI double by Sarah Bell.

The Lady Statesmen answered in the bottom of the third, and the Lady Tigers never led again. Adcox started the inning with a one out-double, and scored on Carr’s RBI-sacrifice bunt. Tillery then laced a double to the wall in centerfield, driving in St. Hilaire to tie the game at two.

Delta State took the lead in the bottom of the fifth inning when Erica Harris hit a two-out, two-RBI double to left-centerfield to give the Lady Statesmen a 4-2 lead.

The Lady Statesmen added another run in the bottom of the sixth inning on an RBI-double by St. Hilaire.

Kate Moreland (11-8) earned the win, giving up two runs on six hits in five innings. Adcox earned the save, pushing her career total to 16, four away from the NCAA Division II all-time save record, catching the last out herself.

Kristen Rigsbee (9-8) was charged with the loss, allowing five runs, three earned, on nine hits in six innings.

The Lady Statesmen begin the Gulf South Conference Tournament on May 1, in Southaven, Miss. Game time and opponent are still to be determined.

April 18, 2008

BRITTANY TILLERY NAMED GSC WEST DIVISION PLAYER OF THE WEEK

BIRMINGHAM, ALA. - Delta State outfielder Brittany Tillery (Sr., 5-8, Starkville, Miss.) wins the West Division player of the week award. Tillery was the spark plug for DSU, helping her team to three wins at the GSC Crossover. The senior hit .417 (5-for-12) on the week, smashing two doubles while contributing four RBIs. She accounted for seven Delta State runs and even stole a base. Tillery got on base 42 percent of the time as DSU moved to 15-7 in league action.

April 18, 2008

LADY REDDIES SLIDE PAST LADY STATESMEN IN GSC SERIES
By Travis Chamblee

• Game One Box Score
• Game Two Box Score

ARKADELPHIA, ARK.- Henderson State pitcher Lauren Carley kept the Lady Statesmen (31-24, 16-10 Gulf South Conference) off the scoreboard for 14 innings, as the Lady Reddies (36-13, 16-7) swiped two crucial Gulf South Conference games away from Delta State, winning the first 3-0 and the second 5-0.

In the first game, the Lady Reddies put the first run on the board in the bottom of the first inning on an RBI-single by Miracle Thurston.

In the bottom of the third inning, Thurston lined out to center field with runners on second and third. Erica Harris fired the ball to Chasey Niebrugge at second for the second out, and Niebrugge threw home to Kristi Basso who applied the tag for what would have been the third out of a triple play. Kelcie Gliddon was originally called out, and was ejected after shoving Basso, but after a conference by the umpires the call was reversed, giving the Lady Reddies a 2-0 lead.

Kayla Lucas hit a home run in the bottom of the fourth inning for the final run of the game.

Edie Oliver (10-9) was charged with the loss, giving up three runs on six hits in five innings.

In the second game, the Lady Reddies pushed two runs across in the bottom of the first inning, and Carley did the rest.

The Lady Statesmen had their best chance to score trailing 2-0 in the top of the third with the bases loaded and one out. Carley got the next batter to strikeout and Harris hit a ball deep to leftfield, but with the wind blowing in briskly, the ball fell into the glove of leftfielder Heather Canerday on the warning track for the third out of the inning to end the rally.

The Lady Reddies added another run in the bottom of the fifth, and Jennifer Lynn hit a two-RBI single in the bottom of the sixth to stretch the lead to 5-0.

Kate Moreland (10-8) was charged with the loss, allowing three runs on five hits in 3.2 innings.

Carley (20-5) earned two wins, giving up just eight hits in 14 total innings, with five strikeouts.

The Lady Statesmen will finish the regular season Saturday, April 19, as they celebrate “Senior Day” against Ouachita Baptist University at home. First pitch is scheduled for 1:00 p.m.

April 17, 2008

LADY STATESMEN AND LADY TIGERS SPLIT GSC TWIN BILL
By Travis Chamblee

• Game One Box Score
• Game Two Box Score

ARKADELPHIA, ARK. - The Lady Statesmen (31-22, 16-8 Gulf South Conference) split a doubleheader with Ouachita Baptist University (21-29, 9-14 GSC), taking the first game 6-0 and dropping game two 1-0.

The Lady Statesmen combined on an 11-hit performance with a solid outing in the circle by Sam St. Hilaire to claim the victory.

Delta State got the bats hot early, plating three runs in the top of the first inning on an RBI-single by Courtney Clark, who later scored on a wild pitch, and Brittany Tillery stole home, to give the Lady Statesmen a 3-0 lead.

St. Hilaire pitched out of a bases loaded jam in the bottom of the fourth to keep the Lady Tigers off the board, and Brittany Adcox quieted an OBU rally in the bottom of the sixth to earn her sixth save of the season.

The Lady Statesmen added three more runs in the top of the seventh to put the game out of reach. Chasey Niebrugge hit an RBI-double and scored on a wild pitch, and Erica Harris laced an RBI-triple down the rightfield line.

St. Hilaire (7-6) earned the win, allowing just two hits in five innings for the win, and Adcox gave up two hits over the last two innings for the save.

Beth McGhee (6-7) was charged with the loss, giving up three runs, two earned, on five hits in two innings.

In the second game, Kate Moreland pitched an outstanding game, but the lack of run support cost the Lady Statesmen. Moreland allowed just four hits over the first five innings, but a leadoff walk and an RBI-single in the sixth proved to be all Ouachita Baptist needed for the win.

Moreland (10-7) was charged with the loss, allowing one run on six hits in six innings.

Kristen Rigsbee (9-7) earned the win, scattering five hits over seven innings with four strikeouts.

The win earned the Lady Statesmen a spot in the Gulf South Conference Tournament in Southaven, Miss. May 1.

The Lady Statesmen will play Henderson State Thursday, April 17, in a GSC doubleheader scheduled to begin at 2:00 p.m.

April 16, 2008

LADY STATESMEN AND LADY RAMS SPLIT TWINBILL

• Game One Box Score
• Game Two Box Score

CLEVELAND - The Lady Statesmen (30-21) split their doubleheader with the Lady Rams of Albany State University (30-20) Monday, dropping the first game 6-2 and then exploding at the plate to claim the second game 9-1.

The Lady Rams jumped on the Lady Statesmen in the bottom of the first inning to take a 2-0 lead, and never trailed.

The Lady Statesmen cut the lead to one in the top of the second with an RBI-double by Amber Hass, but Albany State responded with two more runs in the bottom of the third.

Hass put the Lady Statesmen on the board again with a home run in the top of the fifth, but the Lady Rams came through with a two-run home run in the bottom of the fifth to put the game away.

Edie Oliver (10-7) took the loss, giving up six runs on 10 hits with four strikeouts in 5.2 innings.

Mindy Mager (15-9) earned the win for Albany State, allowing two runs on five hits in seven innings.

In the second game, the Lady Statesmen pushed three runs across in the top of the second with RBIs by Kristi Basso, Sam St. Hilaire and Chasey Niebrugge, and Kate Moreland kept the Lady Rams’ bats at bay to cruise to the victory.

The Lady Statesmen out-hit the Lady Rams 14-3 and took advantage of seven Albany State errors to keep the game out of reach.

The lone Lady Ram run came in the bottom of the sixth inning Deanna Birdsong hit an RBI-single.

Moreland (10-6) gave up just one run on three hits and a walk with five strikeouts in seven innings for the win.

Melissa Hurst (14-11) was charged with the loss, giving up nine runs, two earned, on 14 hits in seven innings.

The Lady Statesmen travel to Arkadelphia, Ark., Wednesday, April 16, to take on Ouachita Baptist in a Gulf South Conference doubleheader scheduled to begin at 2:00 p.m.

April 14, 2008

LADY STATESMEN SLAM LADY WOLVES 10-2
By Travis Chamblee

• Box Score

DECATUR, ALA. – The Lady Statesmen (29-20, 15-7 Gulf South Conference) moved into second place in the Gulf South Conference West Division with a solid team effort en route to a 10-2 victory over West Georgia (24-24, 5-12 GSC) in five innings Sunday at the GSC Crossover.

West Georgia took the lead in the top of the first inning with a two-run home run by Adrienne Clay. The Wolves got just two runners past second base the rest of the game.

The Lady Statesmen tied the game in the bottom of the first when Courtney Clark drove in Sam St. Hilaire and Chasey Niebrugge was able to score on an error.

Delta State took a commanding lead with a five-run second inning. A one-out, solo-home run by Amber Hass started the rally. The next five hitters reached base, and four scored on a pair of two-RBI base hits by Brittany Tillery and Brittany Eikner, to take a 7-2 lead.

The Lady Statesmen added two more runs in the bottom of the third on a two-RBI single by Tillery. After being held scoreless in the fourth, Delta State ended the game in the bottom of the fifth when Britni Adcox led off with a single. The speedster ran all the way to third on St. Hilaire’s sacrifice-bunt, and scored on a wide throw at third.

Kate Moreland (9-6) was in control all day, holding the Wolves to two runs on five hits with three strikeouts in five innings.

Heather Colson (12-11) was charged with the loss, allowing seven runs, three earned, on five hits and two walks in 1.1 innings.

Tillery finished the day 2-for-2 at the plate with a run scored and four RBIs, and made a spectacular catch, crashing through the temporary fence to rob Tia Williams of a home run in the bottom of the fourth.

Adcox was also perfect at the plate, going 3-for-3 with three runs scored and two stolen bases.

The Lady Statesmen will travel to Albany, Ga., for a doubleheader against Albany State scheduled to begin at 1:00 p.m. J.T. Webb will broadcast the game live on www.gostatesmen.com.

April 12, 2008

LADY STATESMEN DOWN LADY TIGERS 2-1
By Travis Chamblee, Softball Contact

DECATUR, ALA. - Sam St. Hilaire gave up just three hits Saturday, leading the Lady Statesmen (28-20, 14-7 Gulf South Conference) to a 2-1 victory over West Alabama (22-24, 2-13 GSC).

The senior pitcher had a runner on base in every inning except the fifth, and gave up a home run to Ashley Edgar in the bottom of the third, but struck out five.

St. Hilaire (6-6) went all seven innings, and drove in the tying run in the top of the fifth inning, an RBI-single up the middle that scored Ashley Holder from second.

Courtney Clark drove in the winning run in the top of the sixth after Brittany Tillery led off with a double and advanced to third on a passed ball.

Aubree Hudson (4-3) was charged with the loss after coming into the game in relief of Emily White, who started the game and gave up one run on four hits with eight strikeouts in five innings. Hudson allowed one unearned run on one hit in one inning.

The Lady Statesmen will finish up play at the GSC Crossover Sunday, April 13, against West Georgia at noon.

April 11, 2008

DAY TWO OF GSC CROSSOVER RAINED OUT

DECATUR, ALA.- Due to inclement weather in and around the Decatur, Ala. area, Friday’s softball games at the Gulf South Conference Crossover have been cancelled.

The Lady Statesmen were scheduled to take on the Valdosta State Lady Blazers and the Chargers of Alabama-Huntsville.

Saturday’s games are set to proceed as scheduled. The Lady Statesmen will face the University of West Alabama at noon, and will face the University of Georgia Sunday, April 13, at noon. J.T. Webb and Travis Chamblee will broadcast the games live on www.gostatesmen.com.

April 10, 2008

LADY STATESMEN SPLIT DAY ONE DOUBLE-DIP AT GSC X-OVER

• Game One Box
• Game Two Box 

DECATUR, ALA. - The Lady Statesmen managed just one run on the first day of the Gulf South Conference Crossover, but that one run was enough to defeat North Alabama 1-0 after losing 11-0 to West Florida.

Edie Oliver (9-7) was in control from start to finish, scattering eight hits over seven innings to earn the win against North Alabama. Two of those hits were back-to-back singles with two outs in the bottom of the seventh before the final out was recorded.

Britni Adcox scored the run for the Lady Statesmen in the top of the third inning, coming in from third base when Sam St. Hilaire stole second and the throw got into the outfield.

Megan Niesel (11-6) was charged with the loss, allowing one run on seven hits in seven innings.

In game one, West Florida blasted 11 hits, including two home runs, and pitcher Taren Walton recorded 11 of the 15 outs by strikeout. The Lady Statesmen managed just one hit by Erica Harris in the losing effort.

Walton (10-5) didn’t walk any and hit just one batter, allowing just the two harmless base runners.

Kate Moreland (8-6) took the loss, and Jackie Stowe and Amber Hass wrapped up the game in the circle after the game was out of hand to save the pitchers’ arms for the rest of the crossover.

The Lady Statesmen will take on Alabama-Huntsville Friday, April 11 at 2:00 p.m. and Valdosta State at 6:00 p.m. as the crossover continues.

April 8, 2008

DEVILETTES SLIDE PAST LADY STATESMEN 4-3

By Travis Chamblee, Softball Contact

• Box Score

ITTA BENA - The Lady Statesmen had the four-time defending Southwest Athletic Conference Champions on the ropes, but Mississippi Valley State University pulled it out on the last play of the game to swipe the 4-3 victory.

Starting pitcher Edie Oliver left with a 3-1 lead and two outs in the third inning, but a wild pitch and two errors on the next pitch allowed two runs to come across for MVSU to tie the game.

After the lone mistake, Kate Moreland baffled the Valley hitters for the next three innings, allowing just three hits. It was the fourth hit that was the crucial one. With two outs in the bottom of the seventh, Erica Hardin hit a game-winning RBI-single to leftfield. Traci Roper dove over Courtney Clark and just got a piece of the plate before Clark could apply the tag.

MVSU started the scoring in the bottom of the second with an RBI-single by Christle Middleton, scoring Aisha Ledet, to take a 1-0 lead.

The Lady Statesmen answered with two runs in the top of the third when Chasey Niebrugge drove in Brittany Tillery with an RBI-double, and scored on Clark’s RBI-single.

They added another run in the top of the fourth when MVSU tried to throw out Britni Adcox at second base on a stolen base attempt with Sam St. Hilaire, but the throw was cut off and Adcox was caught in a run down. St. Hilaire bolted home and beat the throw, and Adcox got to second safely, but the 3-1 lead didn’t hold out.

MVSU had opportunities to put more runs on the board, but Tillery gunned down runners at home from centerfield twice to keep the Lady Statesmen in the game.

Kate Moreland (8-5) was charged with the loss, allowing one run on four hits in three innings with three strikeouts.

Brittany Franklin (9-6) earned the win, giving up three runs on five hits in seven innings.

The Lady Statesmen will be in action again Thursday, April 10, as they travel to Decatur, Ala., for the Gulf South Conference Crossover.

April 5, 2008

DELTA STATE AND SOUTHERN ARKANSAS SPLIT SATURDAY TWINBILL

• Game One Box
• Game Two Box

By Travis Chamblee, Softball Contact

CLEVELAND - The Lady Statesmen (26-18, 12-6 Gulf South Conference) split a doubleheader with Southern Arkansas (7-21, 2-14 GSC) Saturday, dropping game one 5-1 and taking game two 8-3.

Southern Arkansas took advantage of defensive mistakes by the Lady Statesmen, and Cheyenne Savony allowed just four hits to claim the victory in game one.

Brittany Eikner scored the Lady Statesmen’s lone run on a wild pitch after hitting a two-out double.

Sam St. Hilaire (5-6) was charged with the loss, giving up three runs on six hits in 2.1 innings.

Savony (4-8) pitched all seven innings, allowing one run on four hits and three walks.

In game two, the Lady Statesmen bats erupted, blasting 12 hits for eight runs including a double by Chasey Niebrugge and a triple by Brittany Tillery. The Lady Statesmen pushed across five runs in the last two innings to put the game out of reach.

Southern Arkansas scored all three runs by way of the long ball, a solo-home run by Kirstie Reed and a two-run blast by Savony.

Niebrugge led the Lady Statesmen’s offensive charge, going 2-for-3 at the plate with three RBIs.

Kate Moreland (7-4) earned the win, giving up three runs on four hits in 5.1 innings. Britni Adcox earned her fifth save of the season, allowing just one hit in 1.2 innings.

Alex Doyle (3-7) took the loss, allowing three runs on five hits in 1.2 innings.

April 4, 2008

BELHAVEN TOPS DELTA STATE 8-7

• Box Score

CLEVELAND - After trailing 7-1 after four and a half innings, the Lady Statesmen battled back to cut the lead to one, 8-7, but couldn’t get the hit they needed at the end, falling to Belhaven College 8-7.

Belhaven (20-17) got on the board first in the top of the third inning with a home run by Lauren Biediger and an RBI-single.

The Lady Statesmen (25-17) got one back in the bottom of the third on an RBI-double by Chasey Niebrugge.

The Blazers exploded for five runs in the top of the fourth, highlighted by a three-run home run by Tiffany Ansley.

The Lady Statesmen put two across in the bottom of the fourth to cut the lead to 7-3 on a pair of RBIs by Sam St. Hilaire and Brittany Eikner, but the Blazers put what proved to be the winning run across in the top of the fifth on an RBI-single by Biediger.

The Lady Statesmen got two in the bottom of the fifth as Amber Hass scored on a passed ball, and Brittany Tillery scored on Niebrugge’s RBI-double.

Delta State had a chance to tie the game in the bottom of the seventh, but Sam St. Hilaire was stranded at third as Hass’ long, fly ball found its way into the glove of Belhaven centerfielder Britney Webb.

St. Hilaire (5-5) was charged with the loss, giving up two runs on five hits in 2.1 innings with two strikeouts.

Sarah Burns (13-7) earned the win for Belhaven, allowing seven runs, five earned, on 10 hits in 5.1 innings. Mallory Meadows earned her first save of the year, giving up just two hits over the final 1.2 innings.

The Lady Statesmen will host Southern Arkansas Saturday, April 5, in a Gulf South Conference doubleheader scheduled to begin at 1:00 p.m. During the doubleheader, the Lady Statesmen will help strikeout cancer as they participate in the K’s for Cancer Campaign.

April 2, 2008

LADY STATESMEN CORRAL LADY MULERIDERS

• Game One Box
• Game Two Box  

MAGNOLIA, ARK. - The Lady Statesmen out-lasted Southern Arkansas University to claim a 5-3 victory and then held off a late charge by the Muleriders to win 7-4 and sweep the doubleheader in Magnolia, Ark. Wednesday night.

Southern Arkansas (6-18, 1-11 Gulf South Conference) jumped out to a two-run lead in the bottom of the first on a solo-home run and Cheyenne Savony came in to score on Alex Doyle’s RBI-ground out.

The Lady Statesmen (25-16, 11-5 GSC) answered in the top of the fourth, tying the game on a solo-home run by Brittany Tillery and an RBI-single by Brittany Eikner.

The game stayed tied until the ninth, but the Muleriders had a chance to win the game in the bottom of the eighth. Britni Adcox came in to pitch with a runner on second. She walked the first batter she faced, and the runners moved to second and third on a wild pitch with no outs. Adcox retired the next three batters to keep the Lady Statesmen in the ballgame.

The Lady Statesmen offense answered her charge with three runs in the top of the ninth, highlighted with a two-RBI double by Erica Harris.

The Muleriders could only manage one in the bottom of the ninth as the Lady Statesmen took the victory.

Adcox (4-1) got the win for the Lady Statesmen, allowing one run on one hit in two innings of relief. Sam St. Hilaire started the game, giving up two runs, one earned, on three hits in seven innings.

Savony (3-7) took the loss for the Muleriders, giving up five runs on 11 hits in nine innings.

In the second game, the Lady Statesmen struck first, as Tillery scored on Chasey Niebrugge’s RBI-ground out in the top of the first inning. Delta State added another run in the top of the third as Tillery again came around to score, this time on an RBI by Courtney Clark.

The Lady Statesmen blew the game open in the top of the fifth, stretching the lead to 6-0. Niebrugge’s two-run home run started the four run inning.

The Muleriders got three back in the bottom of the fifth and scored another in the bottom of the sixth, after the Lady Statesmen put one on the board in the top of the sixth, but Adcox again shut the door on the Muleriders, getting the last five outs to give the Lady Statesmen a 7-4 win and the sweep.

Adcox earned her fourth save of the season, giving up just one hit in 1.2 innings of relief. Edie Oliver (9-7) earned the win after giving up four runs on seven hits in 3.1 innings after coming into the game for starting pitcher Kate Moreland.

Alex Doyle (3-6) was charged with the loss, allowing six runs, four earned, on eight hits in five innings.

Tillery and Niebrugge each finished the series 5-of-8 at the plate, and each had a double, a home run and two stolen bases. The duo combined for six of the Lady Statesmen’s 12 runs scored and four RBIs.

The Lady Statesmen will be at home Thursday, April 3, as they host Belhaven for a one-game showdown scheduled to begin at 4:00 p.m.

April 2, 2008

KATE MORELAND EARNS GSC WEST PITCHER OF THE WEEK

BIRMINGHAM , ALA. - Delta State pitcher Kate Moreland , a sophomore from Starkville, won her first Gulf South Conference Pitcher of the Week award after going 3-0 in four starts. In a 6-2 week for the Lady Statemen, Moreland picked up 50 percent of the wins.

The sophomore threw 23.2 innings and had an earned run averaged of 2.66. In an 8-0 win over division frontrunner Henderson State, she tossed six shutout innings and punched out six Lady Reddies. She had 22 strikeouts on the week.

Moreland is 7-4 on the season with a 3.20 ERA. In 76.2 innings, she has 53 strikeouts, and opponents are hitting just .278 against her.

April 1, 2008

DELTA STATE BASEBALL AND SOFTBALL POSTPONED DUE TO TUESDAY RAINS

CLEVELAND – Delta State University baseball and softball have been postponed due to Tuesday’s rain. The Statesmen were scheduled to play Belhaven in Jackson, while the Lady Statesmen were set to travel to Magnolia, Ark., for a doubleheader with Southern Arkansas University. The Lady Statesmen will face the Lady Muleriders Wednesday at 5 p.m. The Belhaven game at Smith-Wills Stadium has been rescheduled for April 23 at 6 p.m.

March 30, 2008

LADY STATESMEN AND COTTOM BLOSSOMS SPLIT GSC DOUBLEHEADER

• Game One Box
• Game Two Box

MONTICELLO, ARK. - After losing to the University of Arkansas-Monticello (12-18, 5-3) 2-1, the Lady Statesmen (23-16, 8-5) battled through the rain to come from behind and take game two 4-2.

The first game was a pitcher’s duel, with neither team getting a hit until the fourth inning when Chasey Niebrugge broke the ice with a one out double in the top of the fourth but was left stranded.

The Cotton Blossoms took advantage of Gemma Gibson getting hit by a pitch, scoring the first run of the game on an RBI-double by Lindsey Randall to give UAM a 1-0 lead.

The Cotton Blossoms added another in the fifth inning on Gibson’s RBI-single.

The Lady Statesmen scored in the top of the seventh with an RBI-single by Sam St. Hilaire, and threatened to tie the game, but left the bases loaded.

Edie Oliver (8-7) was charged with the loss, giving up two runs on four hits in six innings.

Becca Sustaire (6-9) earned the win for the Cotton Blossoms after holding the Lady Statesmen to just five hits and one unearned run in seven innings.

In the second game, Arkansas-Monticello took an early two-run lead with a two-run home run off the bat of Meredith Heckel in the bottom of the third inning.

Kate Brady kept the Lady Statesmen scoreless through the first four innings until Brittany Tillery hit a game-tying two-run home run (7). The Lady Statesmen added two more in the sixth on an RBI-squeeze bunt by Amber Hass, scoring Courtney Clark from third, and an RBI-single by Brittany Eikner, scoring Paige Silverthorn, to take a 4-2 lead which was enough for the win.

Britni Adcox (3-1) earned the win, giving up just three hits in 3.1 innings of relief of starter Kate Moreland.

Brady (6-6) was charged with the loss, giving up four runs, one earned, on seven hits in seven innings.

The Lady Statesmen will be in action again Tuesday, April 1, as they travel to Southern Arkansas for a doubleheader scheduled to start at 5:00 p.m.

March 29, 2008

LADY STATESMEN PULL SHADES ON GOLDEN SUNS

By Travis Chamblee, Softball Contact

• Game One Box
• Game Two Box

CLEVELAND - The Lady Statesmen swept Arkansas Tech at University Field Saturday, blasting the Golden Suns 11-3 in five innings and escaping in the second game with a 5-4 victory, to remain undefeated all-time at home against Arkansas Tech.

The Golden Suns (27-9, 9-3 Gulf South Conference) struck first, scoring a run in the top of the first, but the Lady Statesmen (22-15, 8-4 GSC) answered with two in the bottom of the second, and the route was on. Erica Harris hit a two-run home run in the bottom of the second to stretch the lead to three.

The Lady Statesmen put the game out of reach in the bottom of the fourth inning when the Lady Statesmen came through for six two-out RBIs to push the score to 10-1, including a grand slam by Courtney Clark.

The Golden Suns scored two in the top of the fifth inning, but Brittany Tillery drove in Brittany Eikner to end the game early in the bottom of the fifth.

Edie Oliver (8-6) earned the win, giving up two runs on six hits in 3.2 innings of relief.

Dana Aldrich (12-5) took the loss, giving up nine runs on nine hits in 3.2 innings of work.

In the second game, the Golden Suns again struck first, putting two on the board in the top of the first inning, but the Lady Statesmen again had an answer, plating three runs in the bottom half of the inning.

Arkansas Tech tied the game in the top of the second, but Tillery’s RBI-single in the bottom half again gave the Lady Statesmen a one-run lead, 4-3.

The lead remained until the Golden Suns hit a home run in the top of the seventh to tie the game, but the Lady Statesmen answered the call again.

With one out and Sam St. Hilaire charging home from third base, Chasey Niebrugge put down a suicide squeeze, allowing St. Hilaire to score the game-winning run.

Kate Moreland (8-4) earned the win, giving up four runs on 10 hits with seven strikeouts in seven innings.

Casey Hammons (12-4) took the loss, giving up five runs, four earned, on nine hits in 6.1 innings.

The Lady Statesmen travel to Monticello, Ark. to take on the Cotton Blossoms of the University of Arkansas-Monticello in a doubleheader scheduled to begin at 1:00 p.m.

March 27, 2008

LADY STATESMEN STIFLE MISSOURI-ST. LOUIS 2-0 AND 4-3

• Game One Box
• Game Two Box  

CLEVELAND - The Lady Statesmen (20-15) swept the University of Missouri-St. Louis (8-12) at University Field Wednesday, winning the first 2-0 and coming from behind in the second game to claim a 4-3 victory.

Edie Oliver and Britni Adcox teamed up to baffle the Triton hitters, pitching a combined seven inning shutout.

Oliver (7-6) started the game and allowed just four hits while striking out three batters in 5.1 innings, and Adcox earned her third save of the season, giving up only two walks over the final 1.2 innings.

Paige Silverthorn provided the offense for the Lady Statesmen, driving in Brittany Tillery twice with a sacrifice bunt in bottom of the fourth and an RBI-single in the bottom of the sixth.

Allyson DeFosset (5-8) gave up two runs, one earned, on three hits in six innings.

In the second game, Missouri-St. Louis jumped out to a three-run lead after the top of the third as Ja Cee Ellis scored in the top of the second and then hit a two-RBI single in the top of the third.

The Lady Statesmen answered in the bottom of the third with a three-run home run off the bat of Brittany Tillery (6), and Brittany Eikner drove in Amber Hass in the bottom of the fourth for what proved to be the game-winning run.

Kate Moreland (6-4) earned the win, allowing three runs on 10 hits with eight strikeouts in seven innings.

Crystal Koehler (2-3) was charged with the loss after giving up one run on three hits in three innings.

The Lady Statesmen will host Arkansas Tech Saturday, March 29, in a Gulf South Conference doubleheader scheduled to start at 1:00 p.m.

March 26, 2008

LADY STATESMEN AND REDDIES SPLIT GSC TWIN BILL AT UNIVERSITY FIELD
By Travis Chamblee, Softball Contact

CLEVELAND- The Lady Statesmen (18-15, 6-4 Gulf South Conference) split a doubleheader with Henderson State (26-8, 6-2 GSC) Tuesday at University Field, losing 10-5 and winning 8-0 in six innings.

The Lady Reddies jumped out to a 3-0 lead in the top of the first inning, highlighted by a leadoff home run by Kelcie Gliddon.

The Lady Statesmen got one back in the bottom of the inning when Brittany Tillery drove in Chasey Niebrugge, but Henderson State answered in the top of the third, stretching the lead back to three.

The Lady Statesmen tied the game at four in the bottom of the fifth on a three-RBI single by Paige Silverthorn, but again, Henderson State had an answer.

Kayla Lucas’ two-run home run in the top of the sixth gave the Lady Reddies a two-run lead they wouldn’t let go.

The Lady Statesmen scored one in the bottom of the sixth, but the Lady Reddies plated four in the top of the seventh to put the game away.

Lauren Carley (14-3) earned the win for Henderson State, giving up four runs on three hits in 4.2 innings. Patti Collins earned her first save of the year, giving up one run in 2.1 innings.

Sam St. Hilaire (5-4) took the loss, giving up six runs on six hits in 5.1 innings with four strikeouts.

In the nightcap, Kate Moreland pitched a six-inning shutout, allowing just three hits, and Courtney Clark’s three-run home run in the bottom of the third inning led the offensive charge as the Lady Statesmen rolled to an 8-0 victory.

Moreland (5-4) struck out six hitters and walked two, allowing just five batters to reach base in six innings.

Collins (6-3) took the loss, giving up five runs on six hits in 2.1 innings before being chased from the circle.

The Lady Statesmen will be in action at home Wednesday, March 26 as they host Missouri-St. Louis in a doubleheader scheduled to start at 5:00 p.m.

March 19, 2008

DELTA STATE COLLEGIATE SOFTBALL CLASSIC CANCELLED

CLEVELAND – Severe weather in and around Cleveland on Wednesday forced the cancellation of the Delta State Collegiate Softball Classic at University Field. No make-up dates are planned at this time.

March 16, 2008

LADY STATESMEN AND COTTON BLOSSOMS SPLIT GSC DOUBLE DIP AT UNIVERSITY FIELD 2-5 AND 7-5
By Travis Chamblee, Softball Contact

CLEVELAND - The Lady Statesmen (17-15, 5-3 Gulf South Conference) split a double-header with the Cotton Blossoms of Arkansas-Monticello (7-15, 1-1 GSC) Sunday at University Field.

After dropping the first game 5-2 in eight innings, the Lady Statesmen bounced back to take the second game 7-5.

UAM took a two-run lead in the top of the fourth in game one on a two-run blast over the left centerfield fence off the bat of Kate Brady.

The Lady Statesmen cut the lead to one in the bottom of the fourth when Brittany Tillery scored on a throwing error on Paige Silverthorn’s fielder’s choice. The Lady Statesmen then tied the game in the bottom of the sixth when Silverthorn scored on Brittany Eikner’s sacrifice bunt, but failed to get any more.

The Cotton Blossoms won the game in the top of the eighth with back-to-back-to-back two-out home runs.

Edie Oliver (6-6) was charged with the loss, giving up four runs on eight hits with 10 strikeouts in 7.2 innings.

Becca Sustaire (4-7) earned the win, allowing two runs on eight hits in eight innings.

In the second game, the Cotton Blossoms jumped out to a three-run lead in the top of the first, but the Lady Statesmen got two back in the bottom half on a two-RBI double by Silverthorn.

The Cotton Blossoms added one in the top of the second on an RBI-double by Lindsay Randall, but the Lady Statesmen answered with four in the bottom of the third with a sacrifice fly by Silverthorn and an RBI-double by Amber Hass. Tillery scored when Gemma Gibson’s throw to third in an attempt to get her out sailed wide of the base, and Hass scored on Kristi Basso’s fielder’s choice to give the Lady Statesmen a 6-4 lead they would not relinquish.

Each team added a run in the fifth inning, but pitcher Kate Moreland never let the Cotton Blossoms sniff the lead again.

Moreland (4-4) earned the win, allowing just one run on three hits in five innings of relief.

Kate Brady (3-5) took the loss, giving up six runs, five earned, on seven hits in 2.1 innings of work.

The Lady Statesmen will be in action again Wednesday, March 19, as they host Oklahoma City and Mississippi Valley State in the DSU Classic. The first game of the tournament will feature the Lady Statesmen and MVSU at 2:00 p.m.

 

March 11, 2008

Edie Oliver named GSC West Division Pitcher of the Week for the first time this season
By Travis Chamblee, Softball Contact

BIRMINGHAM, ALA. - Sophomore pitcher Edie Oliver was named the Gulf South Conference Pitcher of the Week for the period ending March 10.

The southpaw hurled 18.1 innings over four games, allowing just two runs on 11 hits. The Eupora native struck out nine batters, and pitched two complete game wins against Christian Brothers University on March 6. She allowed just one run during the two-game affair.

Oliver’s week improved her record to 5-4. The award is her first of the season and the first by a Lady Statesmen pitcher.

March 11, 2008

Golden Suns sweep Lady Statesmen for first time ever 2-3, 1-10 in Russellville, Ark.
By Travis Chamblee, Softball Contact

• Game One Box Score
• Game Two Box Score

CLEVELAND - The Lady Statesmen were swept for the first time ever by Arkansas Tech in a Gulf South Conference double-header Tuesday, 3-2 and 10-1 in five innings.

In the first game, Dana Aldrich held the Lady Statesmen (14-13, 2-2 GSC) scoreless through the first six innings, and the Golden Suns (17-5, 2-0 GSC) got two runs off of DSU starter Sam St. Hilaire.

The Lady Statesmen tied the game in the top of the seventh inning on RBIs from Brittany Eikner and Erica Harris, but it wasn’t enough. In the bottom of the seventh, Quinn Culver singled, and Roxanna Palacios beat the throw from leftfield to claim the 3-2 victory.

St. Hilaire (5-3) took the loss, giving up three runs on ten hits in 6.2 innings, while Aldrich improved to 8-3, giving up two runs on six hits in seven innings.

In the second game, the Golden Suns made sure that the game wouldn’t come down to the wire, scoring seven runs in the first three innings.

The Lady Statesmen struck first with an RBI-single off the bat of St. Hilaire, but that was all the offense they could produce.

The Golden Suns added three more runs in the bottom of the fifth inning to end the game early.

Casey Hammons (8-2) gave up just four hits in the five-inning game, allowing just the one run and striking out six.

Edie Oliver (5-5) was charged with the loss, giving up three runs, two earned, on seven hits in two innings of work.

The Lady Statesmen will be on the road again Thursday, March 13 as they play Christian Brothers in Memphis.

 

March 8, 2008

SUNDAY'S GAME WITH CHRISTIAN BROTHERS POSTPONED; SERIES AT ARKANSAS TECH IN JEOPARDY

CLEVELAND - Sunday's series at Christian Brothers has been cancelled due to winter weather in the Memphis area. The series at Arkansas Tech on Monday is also in question due to similar circumstances. More information will be made available as it is released.

March 6, 2008

Lady Statesmen sweep Lady Bucs 5-1, 8-0

By Travis Chamblee

CLEVELAND - The Delta State University softball team swept Christian Brothers in the first Gulf South Conference double-header of the season.

The Lady Statesmen (14-11, 2-0 GSC) struck first in the bottom of the first inning, tagging Nikki Dunn for two runs on two hits, a solo-home run down the left field line by Chasey Niebrugge and an RBI-single off the bat of Sam St. Hilaire.

The Lady Bucs (9-6, 0-2 GSC) threatened in their half of the first, getting runners to first and second with no outs, but Oliver settled down and retired the next three batters in order to end the threat.

Kathleen Nelson cut the lead in half for the Lady Bucs when she sent the 0-2 pitch over the leftfield wall with two outs in the top of the third inning, trimming the Lady Statesmen lead to 2-1.

Two throwing errors by the Lady Bucs gave the Lady Statesmen the run back in the bottom of the third inning. Niebrugge came around to score when Chelsea Carr’s sacrifice bunt was thrown into right field, and Delta State again led by two, 3-1.

The Lady Statesmen added to their lead in the bottom of the fifth inning. After leading off with a single, Niebrugge stole second and advanced to third on Carr’s sacrifice bunt. Courtney Clark’s squeeze bunt stopped a few feet short of the pitching circle, and Niebrugge beat the throw to the plate. Clark then stole second and scored on St. Hilaire’s RBI-double to give the Lady Statesmen a 5-1 lead they would never relinquish.

Dunn (5-3) was charged with the loss, giving up five runs, four earned, on five hits with five strikeouts in six innings.

In game two of the double-header, the Lady Statesmen picked up where they left off in game one, playing small-ball to perfection to plate two runs in the bottom of the first inning. Niebrugge led off with a walk, stole second, advanced to third on Carr’s sacrifice bunt and scored on a squeeze bunt by Clark.

Brittany Tillery laced a two-out double down the third base line and then moved to third on a passed ball. St. Hilaire walked and kept running to second. With the confusion in the infield, Tillery stole home to give the Lady Statesmen a 2-0 lead after one inning.

The Lady Statesmen added another run in the bottom of the fourth when Brittany Eikner roped a two-out double down the leftfield line and scored on Amber Hass’ RBI-single to right-center to take a 3-0 lead.

The Lady Statesmen had a huge offensive surge in the bottom of the sixth inning, plating five runs to end the game early.

Oliver was just as solid in the circle as she was in game one, throwing a combined 13 innings, allowing just one run on seven hits with five strikeouts, earning two wins to improve her record to 5-4.

Kallie McFatter took the loss, giving up eight runs, five earned, on five hits in 5.2 innings of work.

The Lady Statesmen and the Lady Bucs will face off again in Memphis, Tenn., Sunday, March 9, at 1:00 p.m.

March 5, 2008

LADY STATESMEN FALL TO LADY MOCS 0-6, 1-5
By Travis Chamblee, Softball Contact

CLEVELAND - The Lady Statesmen (12-10) dropped two games to previously-fourth ranked Florida Southern (10-3) at University Field, Thursday, 6-0 and 5-1.

In game one, the Lady Statesmen couldn’t get a handle on Brittany Minton, managing just two hits off of her in six innings. Minton (6-1) struck out seven and didn’t give up a walk, earning the victory.

Florida Southern chased Sam St. Hilaire in the third inning, knocking three straight hits including a solo-home run to take a three-run lead. They added another run in the fourth and two in the sixth to take the 6-0 victory.

St. Hilaire took the loss, pitching 2.2 innings. The senior gave up three runs on five hits.

In the second game, the Lady Statesmen had eight runners reach base, seven with hits, but couldn’t get the timely hit they needed to push runs across. They got there lone run in the third inning when Brittani Adcox scored on Brittany Tillery’s RBI-single, but by that time Florida Southern had already scored five runs.

Kate Moreland (3-4) was charged with the loss, pitching 2.2 innings. The sophomore allowed four runs on five hits.

Heidi Schumacher (4-1) earned the win, pitching all seven innings. She allowed one run on seven hits and struck out eight.

The Lady Statesmen will host Christian Brothers Thursday, March 6 in the first Gulf South Conference series of the season.

 

February 28, 2008

LADY STATESMEN SWEEP LSU-A 13-0 AND 3-2

CLEVELAND - The Lady Statesmen (12-9) blasted LSU-Alexandria (3-9) 13-0 in five innings and battled from behind to take a 3-2 victory, sweeping the Lady Generals at University Field in Cleveland.

The Lady Statesmen jumped out to a 5-0 lead in the first inning of game one, with RBIs from Courtney Clark, Amber Hass, Sam St. Hilaire, Brittany Eikner and Erica Harris.

They added eight more runs over the next three innings on 14 hits to end the game early. Every hitter in the Lady Statesmen line-up reached base safely, and Chelsea Carr and Chasey Niebrugge each had three hits.

St. Hilaire gave up just two hits in the affair, pitching five innings and striking out five to improve her record to 5-1.

Alyssa Smith (1-5) took the loss, pitching four innings, giving up 13 runs on 14 hits.

In the second game, the Lady Generals struck first, scoring two runs in the fourth inning off of starting pitcher Edie Oliver. LSU-Alexandria still had the bases loaded with one out when Kate Moreland came in and closed the door.

The Lady Statesmen cut the lead to one in the fifth inning when St. Hilaire led off with a double and scored on a wild pitch. Delta State then tied the game in the sixth when Brittany Tillery led off with a bunt single. Kristi Basso laid down a sacrifice bunt, and Tillery ran all the way to third, sliding in just before the throw.

The Lady Statesmen claimed the victory on Erica Harris’ RBI-single in the bottom of the seventh inning, which scored Jackie Stowe, who led off with a single.

Kate Moreland (3-3) earned the victory, pitching 3.2 innings. The sophomore gave up just two hits and struck out three.

Megan Rowe (2-4) took the loss, pitching six innings, giving up three runs on six hits.

The Lady Statesmen will be in action again Wednesday, March 5, as they host Florida Southern for a double-header scheduled to start at 4:00 p.m.

 

February 24, 2008

LADY STATESMEN SPLIT FINAL DAY'S DOUBLEHEADER AT CHARGER CHILLOUT
By Travis Chamblee, Softball Contact

DECATUR, ALA. - After letting a 3-1 lead slip away into a 10-3 defeat to Truman State (2-2), the Lady Statesmen (10-9) regrouped and blasted Bellarmine (4-4) 10-1 in five innings on the final day of the UAH Charger Chillout.

Sam St. Hilaire (4-1) scattered six hits over five innings and allowed just one unearned run. Her teammates, meanwhile, had no problem with Bellarmine pitching, knocking four of 12 hits out of the park.

Chasey Niebrugge led the offensive charge for the Lady Statesmen going 3-for-3 with two home runs, a walk and three RBI. Brittany Tillery added a two-run home run, and Brittany Eikner hit a solo-home run.

Sharon Brill (1-2) took the loss for Bellarmine, giving up 10 runs on 12 hits in five innings.

In the Truman State game, Brittany Tillery’s two-RBI single in the first and St. Hilaire’s RBI-single in the fourth gave the Lady Statesmen a 3-1 lead going into the top of the fifth inning.

That is where the wheels fell off. Kate Moreland gave up a game-tying two-run home run and gave way to Edie Oliver. After retiring the second out of the inning against the first batter she faced, Oliver gave up four straight hits and when the inning came to a close Truman State had a 6-3 lead.

Truman State added three more runs in the top of the sixth inning, and the Lady Statesmen never threatened their lead.

Oliver (3-4) was charged with the loss, pitching one-third of an inning, giving up three runs on four hits.

Katie Noski (2-0) earned the win for Truman State, giving up three runs on 11 hits in seven innings.

The Lady Statesmen will host LSU-Alexandria Thursday, Feb. 28 at 4:00 p.m. in their home opener.

February 23, 2008

CHARGER CHILLOUT QUITE CHILLY FOR LADY STATESMEN, AS DSU GOES 0-2 ON DAY ONE
By Travis Chamblee, Softball Contact

DECATUR, ALA. - Errors and poorly placed defensive play led to a pair of losses for the Delta State softball team Saturday at the Charger Chillout in Decatur, Ala. The Lady Statesmen fell 13-10 to Missouri Science and Technology and 5-0 to Lewis.

There were a total of eight errors committed during the two games, and mixed with the way the opponents were swinging the bats, 16 and nine hits respectively, it made for a long day at the ballpark for the green and white.

Sam St. Hilaire started game one and seemed to be settling into a grove, but didn’t make it out of the second and left with four runs charged. An error by Erica Harris in left field allowed two more runs to score, and after two innings Missouri S&T led 7-0.

The Lady Statesmen battled back, scoring three in the bottom of the third inning. They then batted around in the bottom of the fourth inning, plating seven runs to take a 10-8 lead.

Missouri S&T didn’t stay down though, retaking the lead 11-10 in the top of the fifth, chasing Edie Oliver (3-3) from the circle. They added two insurance runs in the top of the seventh.

The Lady Statesmen loaded the bases with two outs in the bottom of the seventh, but couldn’t get the clutch hit they needed, falling 13-10.

Against Lewis in a rematch from Tunica, a game in which the Lady Statesmen won 4-3, errors and mistakes were story on this cold, cold night. A passed ball in the first inning gave Lewis a 1-0 lead. Then in the third, two errors in the first three batters of the inning kept the inning alive, and Lewis took advantage. The Flyers plated three runs to take a 4-0 lead.

Kate Moreland (2-3) took the loss, allowing four runs, all unearned, in 2.1 innings.

Courtney Lyons pitched nearly flawlessly, giving up just one hit and six walks with eight strikeouts to earn the win.

The Lady Statesmen will take on Truman State at 11:00 a.m. and Bellarmine at 3:00 p.m. Sunday as they wrap up play at the Charger Chillout.

 

February 17, 2008

GSC/MIDWEST CLASH WASHED OUT ON SUNDAY

TUNICA - Heavy rains Saturday night and sloppy field conditions forced the final day of the GSC/Midwest Clash, hosted by Delta State at the G.V. Henderson Sports Complex, to be cancelled. No make-up dates are planned at this time.

February 16, 2008

LADY STATESMEN SWEEP AWAY INDIANAPOLIS AND LEWIS AT GSC/MIDWEST CLASH

TUNICA – The Lady Statesmen softball team advanced over the .500 mark for the first time this season with two wins Saturday at the Gulf South Conference-Midwest Clash, defeating Indianapolis 7-1 and holding off a late charge by Lewis to walk away with a 4-3 victory.

Delta State improved their record to 7-6, while Indianapolis dropped to 1-3 and Lewis fell to 0-4.

Sam St. Hilaire (3-2) pitched a gem, giving up just one unearned run on three hits in seven innings against Indianapolis.

The Lady Statesmen struck first, executing the bunt to perfection as Chasey Niebrugge led off the first inning with a double, advanced to third on Chelsea Carr’s sacrifice bunt and scored on Courtney Clark’s bunt single.

It was a 1-1 tie until the Lady Statesmen’s bats got hot in the fifth inning, tagging Meagan Gutierrez for three runs. They added three more in the sixth on Brittany Tillery’s third home run of the season, a three-run bomb over the right-centerfield fence.

Gutierrez (0-1) took the loss, giving up six runs on seven hits in five innings of work.

Against Lewis in the nightcap, the Lady Statesmen again jumped out to an early one-run lead in the exact same fashion. Niebrugge led off with a double, Carr bunted her to third and Clark squeezed her home.

Niebrugge scored again in the bottom of the third on Clark’s RBI-single, and the Lady Statesmen two more runs in the bottom of the fourth on Niebrugge’s RBI-single and Britni Adcox scored when Carr was hit by a pitch, giving Delta State a 4-0 lead.

Edie Oliver was cruising in the circle until the top of the seventh. Four of the first five Lewis hitters reached base safely, cutting the lead to one before Adcox came into the game to retire the last two batters for her first save of the season.

Oliver (2-2) pitched 6.1 innings, giving up three runs on 10 hits to improve to .500 on the young season.

Courtney Lyons (0-2) was charged with the loss after pitching 3.2 innings, giving up four runs on six hits.

The Lady Statesmen will finish up play at the GSC-Midwest Crossover Sunday against Southern Indiana at 2:00 p.m. and Missouri-St. Louis at 4:00 p.m.

February 15, 2008

LADY STATESMEN SPLIT DAY ONE TWINBILL AT GSC/MIDWEST CROSSOVER
By Travis Chamblee, Softball Contact

TUNICA - The Lady Statesmen (5-6) softball team earned a split on the opening of the Gulf South Conference-Midwest Crossover Friday, defeating Drury University (0-2) 7-3 and losing to defending National Champion and No. 1-ranked Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville (2-0) 8-0 in five innings.

Sam St. Hilaire went the distance in the opener, improving her record to 2-2, and the heart of the lineup got hot with the bats as the Lady Statesmen eclipsed their previous season high of five runs. Courtney Clark and Amber Hass, the three and four hitters, combined for four RBI, a double, and a home run.

Chasey Niebrugge, Jackie Stowe and Brittany Eikner added another RBI each as the Lady Statesmen executed the squeeze play to perfection for a five-run second inning.

St. Hilaire gave up just three runs on six hits, two of which came on Mandi Burnett’s two-run home run.

Brittany Davis took the loss for Drury, pitching seven innings and giving up seven runs, one earned, on 10 hits.

SIU-Edwardsville’s Erika Taylor was nearly un-hittable. The freshman gave up just one hit in five innings in her first start of the season.

Kaeleigh Rousey’s home run and Chaleen Rumps’ two-RBI single highlighted a five-run second for SIU-E, and they took advantage of three Delta State errors to earn the victory.

Kate Moreland (1-2) was charged with the loss, going 2.2 innings and giving up eight runs, four earned.

The Lady Statesmen will take on the University of Indianapolis at 12:00 p.m. and Lewis University at 4:00 p.m. Saturday, February 17 at the G.V. Henderson Sports Complex in Tunica.

 

February 10, 2008

Lady Statesmen sweep away Tars at GSC/SSC Crossover in Pensacola, Fla.

PENSACOLA, Fla. - The Lady Statesmen finished a sweep of No. 24 Rollins College in a double-header Sunday to finish 3-1 at the GSC/SSC Crossover in Pensacola, Fla.

Head coach David Kuhn used a trio of pitchers to keep Rollins (1-5) scoreless over 14 innings, as the Lady Statesmen (4-5) took game one 1-0 and game two 3-0.

Sam St. Hilaire set the tone early, scattering ….hits over ….innings in the circle, before giving way to relief pitcher Britni Adcox, who earned her first win of the season.

Nicole Anderson pitched solid for six innings, keeping the Lady Statesmen batters off balance to the tune of just two hits and …. Strikeouts, but it was the bottom of the seventh that cost the Rollins power pitcher.

Edie Oliver and Adcox drew leadoff walks, and Kate Moreland came in to run for Oliver. Brittany Eikner laid down a sacrifice bunt to move the runners to second and third with just one out.

Kristi Basso stood at the plate with one out and a 1-2 count after attempting to squeeze Moreland home. As she stood in, the next pitch from Anderson sailed over the head of the catcher, and Moreland scored easily from third giving the Lady Statesmen the 1-0 victory.

Kate Moreland continued the scoreless trend, scattering five hits and recording seven strikeouts, as she recorded her first win of the season.

The Lady Statesmen added all three of their runs in the top of the sixth inning, when St. Hilaire, Clark and Tillery all delivered RBI singles.

Rachael Foster was charged with the loss for Rollins. She gave up three runs on seven hits in seven innings.

The Lady Statesmen will be in action again Friday, February 15, as they host the GSC/Midwest Crossover in Tunica.

 

February 9, 2008

Lady Statesmen and Lady Knights spilt twinbill at GSC/SSC Crossover; Rollins Tars up next for DSU

• Game 1 Box
• Game 2 Box

PENSACOLA, Fla. - The Delta State University Lady Statesmen softball team earned a split in their opening double-header of the GSC/SSC Crossover in Pensacola, Fla., Saturday against Lynn University.

The Fighting Knights (2-8) won the opener 2-1, but the Lady Statesmen (2-5) battled back, winning the nightcap 5-2.

Kate Moreland was solid in the first game, giving up just two runs in seven innings, but back-to-back RBI-singles by Kathryn Trombly and Mika Tatar was the difference in the game.

The Lady Statesmen struck first, with an RBI-single by Sam St. Hilaire which allowed Courtney Clark to score. However, that was all the offense the Lady Statesmen could produce against the pitching performance of Cristie Kaufman.

Kaufman (1-3) pitched all seven innings, giving up just one run on nine hits with five strikeouts.

Moreland (0-2) was charged with the loss. The sophomore pitched seven innings, giving up two runs on only five hits with two strikeouts.

In the second game, the Lady Statesmen again jumped out to a 1-0 lead. This time it came in the top of the second inning when Edie Oliver drove Brittany Tillery in from third base.

Lynn answered the run in the bottom of the second with an RBI-double by Trombly, but the Lady Statesmen bats weren’t finished. Tillery led of the top of the fourth with a line drive over the leftfield fence to put Delta State back on top.

Lynn answered in the bottom of the fifth with an RBI-single by Nikki Pallister. It was the last time a Fighting Knight crossed the plate.

The Lady Statesmen bats got hot in the top of the seventh, plating three runs with the assistance of a Lynn error that would have stopped the rally before it began. Brittany Eikner led off the inning with a single, and Moreland, who pinch-ran for Eikner, stole second. Chasey Niebrugge singled to give the Lady Statesmen runners at the corners with one out.

Chelsea Carr advanced Niebrugge to second with a ground ball to the shortstop, but Moreland was still at third with two outs in the inning. Clark hit a shot up the middle that was mishandled by the shortstop, allowing Moreland to score. Amber Hass and Tillery both added RBI-singles before the final out was made.

Lynn loaded the bases in the bottom of the seventh, but Oliver pitched out of the jam to give the Lady Statesmen the win. Oliver (1-2) went seven innings, giving up two runs on eight hits with five strikeouts.

Amber Havnar (1-3) took the loss, pitching seven innings, giving up five runs, one earned, on nine hits with four strikeouts.

The Lady Statesmen will conclude play in the GSC/SSC Crossover Sunday with a double-header against Rollins at 10:00 a.m.

 

February 3, 2008

LADY STATESMEN SOFTBALL DROPS HEARTBREAKER 3-5 TO TEXAS A&M-KINGSVILLE

SAN ANTONIO , Texas – The Delta State women’s softball team dropped its final game of the St. Mary’s (TX) Collegiate Classic, 3-5, to Texas A&M-Kingsville Sunday at Rattlers Field. The Lady Statesmen fell to 1-4 on the young season, while the Javelinas improved to 3-2 overall with the win.

The Lady Statesmen struck first in the bottom of the first, as Courtney Clark’s RBI single plated Chasey Niebrugge for a 1-0 DSU lead.

In the top the third, the Javaeinas tied it up on Ariel Lichtenberger’s RBI single to left.

The Lady Statesmen wasted little time seizing the lead again on Amber Hass’ two-run home run (1) to center. The blast plated Sam St. Hilaire to give DSU a 3-1 advantage.

In the top of the fourth, Texas A&M-Kingsville loaded the bases with one out. A roller to St. Hilaire forced the senior to hurry her throw to the plate leading to an error. The ball got away from catcher Courtney Clark allowing two Javelinas to score, tying the game at 3-3. The Javelinas would plate two more runs before the inning was over to go up 3-5.

TAMK would keep the Lady Statesmen at bay over the next three innings despite two leadoff doubles.

Sam St. Hilaire (1-1) pitched 3.1 innings allowing seven hits and five runs, three earned, in the loss. Courtney Rigamonti (2-2) earned the win for the Javelinas. She allowed eight hits, three runs and one strikeout in the complete game.

The Lady Statesmen finished with three runs on eight hits with two errors, while the Javelinas plated five runs on seven hits with four errors.

The Lady Statesmen will return to action this weekend at the Gulf South Conference/Sunshine State Conference Crossover Tournament. Delta State will play four games over the two-day tournament in Pensacola, Fla.

 

 

FEBRUARY 2, 2008

LADY STATESMEN SOFTBALL SPLITS DOUBLEHEADER AT ST. MARY’S CLASSIC

By Travis Chamblee, Softball Contact

• Game 1 Box Score
• Game 2 Box Score

SAN ANTONIO, Texas - Sam St. Hilaire pitched a gem as the Lady Statesmen (1-3) softball team chalked up their first win of the season, defeating Texas Women’s University (0-3) 1-0 Saturday morning, but fell victim to Kim McDonald’s perfect game, losing 12-0 to Abilene Christian (2-1) in five innings.

St. Hilaire (1-0) threw seven scoreless innings, keeping the Texas Women’s hitters off balance, scattering seven hits while striking out four.

Emily Hearn provided the offense for the Lady Statesmen in the bottom of the fifth inning when her slow roller died between the pitcher and the catcher, allowing Courtney Clark to score from third.

Carly Case (0-1) took the loss for the Pioneers, throwing six innings, allowing seven hits and the lone run.

In the Lady Statesmen’s second game, against the ACU Wildcats, pitcher Edie Oliver (0-2) gave up three runs in the first and was charged with two of the four runs that scored on Jessica Shiery’s grand slam over the right-centerfield wall, which gave the Wildcats a 7-0 lead in the top of the second inning.

Three Lady Statesmen pitchers combined for five innings, giving up 12 runs, 10 earned. Oliver was charged with her second loss of the season, pitching 1.1 innings, giving up five runs, three earned.

McDonald (1-0) threw all five innings without allowing a single baserunner, and struck out three hitters.

The Lady Statesmen will play their final game at the St. Mary’s NCAA Division II College Classic against Texas A&M-Kingsville at 10:00 a.m. Sunday, Feb. 3.

 

February 1, 2008

LADY STATESMEN SOFTBALL DROPS SEASON OPENING DOUBLEHEADER AT ST. MARY’S CLASSIC
By Travis Chamblee, Softball Contact

• Box Score: Cameron 6 - DSU 5 (9)
• Box Score: Tarleton St. 5 - DSU 4  

SAN ANTONIO, Texas - The Delta State softball team was swept on the opening day of the season at the St. Mary’s NCAA Division II College Classic, dropping two one-run games in the last inning of play.

The Lady Statesmen lost 6-5 in nine innings to Cameron University in the first game, and Tarleton State scored in the bottom of the seventh to claim a 5-4 victory in game two.

Edie Oliver pitched all nine innings against Cameron, but it was shortstop Megan Young’s three-run home run off the left field foul pole that proved to be the difference.

Cameron struck first with a run in the top of the first inning on Shareena Pulse’s RBI-single.

The Lady Statesmen answered that with a run in the bottom of the second when Brittany Eikner drove in Sam St. Hilaire on an RBI-double.

Two successful bunts gave Cameron two quick baserunners in the top of the third before Young drilled the pitch through a stiff wind to give her team a 4-1 lead.

The Lady Statesmen answered immediately with a three-run bottom of the third. Amber Hass drove in Brittany Tillery and Courtney Clark with a two-RBI double, and Erica Harris drove in Hass on a single up the middle.

It wasn’t until the ninth inning that another run would cross the plate. Cameron took advantage of the tiebreak rule, as Callie Schlatter, who started the inning at second base, came across to score on Kensi Caldwell’s RBI-double. Caldwell would then score on Chelsey Jordan’s RBI-single, giving Cameron a 6-4 lead going to the bottom of the ninth.

The Lady Statesmen got a run as St. Hilaire drove in Britni Adcox with an RBI-double, but she was left stranded at third as the game ended.

Oliver (0-1) went nine innings, giving up six runs, five earned, with two strikeouts.

Ashton McBride (1-0) earned the win for Cameron, going nine innings, giving up five runs, four earned, with two strikeouts.

In the second game, against Tarleton State, the Lady Statesmen jumped out to a 4-0 lead on one swing of Tillery’s bat. The junior’s grand slam plated St. Hilaire, Kristi Basso and Ashley Holder in the top of the second inning, but that was all the offensive help pitcher Kate Moreland received in the contest.

Tarleton State chipped away at the lead, scoring a run in the bottom of the third and the bottom of the fifth, before tying the game with two runs in the bottom of the sixth.

Brittany Terry’s two-RBI double did the damage with one out in the inning. Tarleton State ended the game with two outs in the bottom of the seventh inning when Tami Sutton stepped up with runners at first and third. Sutton hit a fly ball to left that sailed over the head of St. Hilaire. Kelli Gayle scored from third to give Tarleton State the win.

Moreland (0-0) pitched 5.1 innings, giving up four runs with two strikeouts. Adcox (0-1) was charged with the loss, as she went 1.1 innings, giving up one run.

Jessi Walters (1-0) earned the win, working 1.1 innings, giving up just one hit and no runs.

The Lady Statesmen will continue play at the St. Mary’s Classic Saturday, Feb. 2, against Texas Women’s University at 11:15 a.m. and Abilene Christian at 3:45 p.m.

 

January 30, 2008

LADY STATESMEN SOFTBALL PICKED SECOND IN GSC WEST; SIX PLAYERS NAMED PRESEASON ALL-GSC

CLEVELAND - The Delta State University Lady Statesmen softball team was picked to finish second in the West Division of the Gulf South Conference as voted by the league’s coaches.

The Lady Statesmen earned two first place votes from the West Division coaches, but it was the Cotton Blossoms of Arkansas-Monticello who took the top-spot with five first place votes, finishing four points (35) above the Lady Statesmen (31) in the voting.

Henderson State (23) was picked to finish third, while Southern Arkansas (20) was voted fourth. Ouachita Baptist (19) was fifth, Arkansas Tech (13) finished sixth in the voting and Christian Brothers rounded out the West Division with six points in seventh place.

For the fourth-straight season, Alabama-Huntsville was picked to win the overall conference title, while Valdosta State was voted as the favorite to win the East Division, garnering four of the five first place votes.

The Lady Statesmen had six players selected to the GSC Preseason Team, headlined by 2007 All-Region second baseman Chasey Niebrugge. As a junior last season, Niebrugge hit .354 with 10 home runs and 36 RBIs.

Fellow seniors Britni Adcox and Sam St. Hilaire were also selected. Adcox, a two-time All-GSC selection, was fifth in the nation with five saves last season. She had a 10-5 record in the circle with an ERA of 4.01. She also hit .282 with 13 RBIs and stole 13-of-15 bases. St. Hilaire, a three-time All-GSC selection, hit .347 with 17 RBIs. Despite a 2-4 record pitching, St. Hilaire posted several key innings in relief, striking out 37 batters in 54.0 innings with an ERA of 3.63.

Junior Brittany Tillery and sophomores Courtney Clark and Edie Oliver rounded out the Lady Statesmen’s preseason selections. Tillery, a 2007 First Team All-GSC selection, stole 32-of-33 bases, led the team with a .374 batting average, and drove in 26 runs. She tied an NCAA All Divisions record with three triples in one game, and recorded 13 outfield assists.

Courtney Clark, a 2007 Second Team All-GSC selection, hit .366 with eight home runs and a team-high 46 RBIs, while Oliver, a 2007 First Team selection, had a 9-5 record with a team-best 2.40 ERA. She also hit .317 with 15 RBIs.

The Lady Statesmen six selections to the pre-season squad was the most by any school in either division.

 

December 3, 2007

KASEY BRITT INKS WITH LADY STATESMEN

CLEVELAND – Delta State University head softball coach David Kuhn announced the signing of Richland High School senior Kasey Britt to the 2008-09 Lady Statesmen softball team.
           
As a junior, she hit .532 with 35 RBI and five home runs. The speedster also legged out nine doubles and four triples. The 2007 First Team All-State selection committed only two errors in 301 opportunities, recording 290 putouts and nine assists, while spending time at first base and in the outfield.
           
“Kasey (Britt) brings a much needed left handed power hitter to our lineup. She is a great, all-around athlete, and she brings a lot of talent to our ball club,” Kuhn said.

November 26, 2007

LADY STATESMEN SOFTBALL ADDS THREE TO 2009 SIGNING CLASS; WALLACE STATE DUO ADDS POP TO CLASS

CLEVELAND - Delta State head softball coach David Kuhn announced the signing of three players for the 2009 softball season on Monday. Holli Hill, a sophomore pitcher at Wallace State Community College, Rachel Baucom, a sophomore catcher/shortstop at Wallace State Community College, and Kaity Calvert, a senior at Toms River South High School in Beachwood, N.J.
           
“I am very excited about these girls,” Kuhn said. “They have a lot of talent and will make a positive impact on both our program and our community.”
           
Hill, pitcured at left, was 14-6 as a freshman, throwing six complete-game shutouts and four combined shutouts. The Boaz, Ala., native finished with a 1.16 ERA and struck out 135 batters in 121 innings. The 5-foot-5, right-handed hurler also pitched six innings against Auburn University during the fall of her freshman year, and gave up just two runs.
           
“Holli (Hill) has a very live arm. She has the opportunity to come in here and make an immediate impact,” Kuhn said. “She has great control and is very poised on the mound.”
           
Baucom, pictured below, led Wallace State as a freshman with a .458 batting average. She drove in 60 RBIs with 104 hits, including 20 doubles and four home runs. She was selected as a First Team South Region All-American, had an 18-game hitting streak, and had 31 multi-hit games. Baucom is a native of Columbus, Miss. and went to New Hope High School, where she was named First Team All-State in 2006.
           
“Rachel (Baucom) is an outstanding hitter. She is a great situational hitter who can also hit for power. She can put the ball anywhere on the field, and she doesn’t strike out often,” Kuhn said.
           
During fall games as a freshman, Baucom struck out just twice in 96 plate appearances.
           
Calvert is also a good hitter who can play nearly anywhere on the field. During her junior year, she played primarily as a catcher, but spent time at numerous positions in both the infield and the outfield. She hit .340 with five doubles and two home runs.

"Kaity (Calvert) is a very versatile softball player. She can play in the dirt, grass or behind the plate. She will give us lots of options as a player. I am happy that Kaity will play for us next year,” Kuhn said.

 

November 16, 2007

LADY STATESMEN SOFTBALL INKS BAYOU’S MAGHAN BROWN

CLEVELAND – Delta State University head softball coach David Kuhn announced the signing of Bayou Academy catcher Maghan Brown to a National Letter of Intent on Friday.  Brown, one of the top student-athletes in the Mississippi Private School Association, is the first Lady Statesmen commitment to ink with the Delta State in the early signing period.

“I’m tremendously excited about the addition of Maghan to our program,” said Kuhn.  “She is an exceptional athlete and good student.  She has great speed and a great understanding of the game.  I believe her best softball is yet to come.”

Brown garnered MPSA All-Star MVP honors after guiding the Lady Colts to their second straight Class A championship.  Along the way, Brown batted .495 with eight doubles, six triples, and 34 RBIs.   

 

October 9, 2007

LADY STATESMEN AMONG NATION'S BEST IN THE CLASSROOM
By Travis Chamblee, Softball Contact

CLEVELAND - The Delta State softball team ranked 29th out of 61 NCAA Division II schools in team grade point average with an overall GPA of 3.296, the National Fastpitch Coaches Association announced. There were only 30 of 118 Division I schools which had a GPA higher than the Lady Statesmen.

Head coach David Kuhn’s squad is behind only two other Gulf South Conference schools. The University of Arkansas-Monticello is sixth in Division II with a GPA of 3.480, and Valdosta State is ninth with a 3.471. Grand Canyon University is at the top of all Division II schools with a team GPA of 3.633.

August 15, 2007

Lady Statesmen set to host walk-on tryout August 27

CLEVELAND - Delta State University Lady Statesmen softball will hold an open walk-on tryout August 27 at 2 p.m. at University Field.

The tryout is open to all female Delta State students who are enrolled on a full-time basis. Interested students must come by the DSU Softball office (Dorgan Center) to fill out the required forms. The forms must be completed prior to the Aug. 27 tryout. The student must also have her own insurance, as well as gloves and shoes.

For more information, please contact assistant coach Brandi Vondenstein at (662) 846-4288.

July 30, 2007

BRANDI VONDENSTEIN NAMED ASSISTANT SOFTBALL COACH

CLEVELAND – Delta State University head softball coach David Kuhn announced the hiring of Brandi Vondenstein as assistant coach on Monday.  Vondenstein is no stranger to Lady Statesmen softball.  The Crowley, La., native was an All-Gulf South Conference selection at third base for the Lady Statesmen during the 2004 and 2005 seasons.  She spent the past two seasons as a graduate assistant on Kuhn’s staff as well.

Over her two year playing career, Vondenstein started 112-of-115 games played. Her exceptional defense and work ethic helped the Lady Statesmen to the GSC West Division crown in 2005.

Vondenstein also coached the Bayou Academy Lady Colts softball team to the 2006 Mississippi Private School Association Class A State Championship and in the fall of 2005 led BA to a third place finish in the MPSA North State Championship.

Vondenstein graduated in 2005 from DSU with a bachelor’s degree in Health, Physical Education and Recreation. An excellent student, she was twice named to the All-GSC Academic Team and received the Halbrook Award of Academic Distinction in 2005 from the Institutes of Higher Learning Board.

She recently completed her master’s degree in Health, Physical Education and Recreation this past summer.  Her duties will include recruiting, field maintenance and travel coordination.   

July 10, 2007

After two years on the sidelines, Lady Statesmen assistant Joy Long announces resignation

CLEVELAND - Delta State head softball coach David Kuhn announced the resignation of assistant coach Joy Long effective Monday, July 9.  Long plans to return to chiropractic school next summer after completing prerequisites at DSU this fall. The Oxford, Fla., native will remain on the staff as a volunteer assistant. A nationwide search for a full-time assistant coach has already begun. 

Long, a former four-time First Team All-Gulf South Conference catcher for the Lady Statesmen, has served the softball program as a full-time assistant the past two seasons.  Prior to being named a full time coach, she worked as a graduate assistant for two seasons. During that time, DSU went 88-49 with her assistance.

As a four year starter for the Lady Statesmen, Long positioned herself in the top ten of virtually every offensive category.  Long closed out her career as the all-time leader in hits (222), games played (225), and runs batted in (135).  A three time First-Team NFCA All-South Region player, she will forever be remembered as one of the greats at DSU and in the Gulf South Conference. 

May 16, 2007

Lady Statesmen sign NJCAA All-American shortstop Kaci Haney

CLEVELAND—Delta State University head softball coach David Kuhn announced the signing of Kaci Haney, a National Fastpitch Coaches Association Junior College All-American, from Cowley Community College in Arkansas City, Kan.  Haney’s signing marks the third player to ink with the Lady Statesmen this season.

“Kaci is an outstanding student-athlete that comes from one of the best junior college softball programs in the Midwest,” said Kuhn.  “She has outstanding range on defense and brings a lot of offensive power with her bat.”

Haney, a native of Great Bend, Kan., brings some impressive credentials to the Lady Statesmen program.  The power-hitting shortstop is a two-time NFCA First Team All-Region selection.  In 2006, Haney was named to the NFCA Junior College All-American Team and she is a leading candidate to repeat the feat this year after batting .411 with 11 home runs, 51 RBIs and 69 hits.

Haney could also be considered an All-American in the classroom.  She is a member of Phi Theta Kappa, a national two-year college honor society.  Students must maintain at least a 3.5 grade point average to be inducted.      

May 9, 2007

Delta State’s Chasey Niebrugge named to Daktronics First Team All-South Region squad

• Complete Daktronics Release

CLEVELAND – Delta State University junior second baseman Chasey Niebrugge was named to the Daktronics First Team All-South Region Softball Team on Wednesday.  It is the first career All-Region honor for Niebrugge and the first this season for the Lady Statesmen. 

“Chasey had a monster season for us at second base,” said David Kuhn, Lady Statesmen head coach.  “She is the type player you build a team around and I can’t wait to see how she continues to develop as a player over the summer.”

Niebrugge, a First Team All-Gulf South Conference selection, led the Lady Statesmen to a 39-26 finish this season and a fourth place finish in the Gulf South Conference Tournament last weekend in Southaven.  The junior from Bonita Springs, Fla. led the Lady Statesmen this year with 13 doubles and 10 home runs.  She finished fourth on the squad with a .349 batting average, while driving in 36 runs.  The speedster also swiped 13-of-16 bases and completed the season with a .933 fielding percentage.

Neibrugge and the other 12 first team selections are now eligible for the Daktronics All-American team.   

May 7, 2007

Lady Statesmen fall 2-3 in extras to UAH after making deep run in GSC Tournament

SOUTHAVEN - The Lady Statesmen put up an incredible performance Saturday night against the Chargers of Alabama-Huntsville, but in the end the experience of a very talented Charger lineup ended the season for Delta State with a 3-2 extra-inning win, eliminating the Lady Statesmen from the Gulf South Conference tournament.

Freshman Kate Moreland pitched like a senior, dazzling the Charger hitters for 6.1 scoreless innings before UAH finally figured out how to hit her. With a runner on first, Caroline Weatherly singled and Delta State head coach David Kuhn brought in Britni Adcox to finish the game. After Adcox got Kristina Prater to fly out, Amy Harris came through with a double to center field to tie the game at 2-2.

The Chargers went on to win the game in the bottom of the eighth inning on an RBI single by Megan Blanchard, scoring Anna Parker.

Jenny Hess (5-0) earned the win for UAH, going five innings of relief. The national save leader gave up just one run on five hits.

Adcox (10-5) took the loss for the Lady Statesmen, giving up one run on two hits in one inning of work.

The battle was the third game of the day for the Lady Statesmen after staving off elimination in each of the two previous games, beating Southern Arkansas 3-2 and Henderson State 8-4, just to earn the right to face the Chargers, who are yet to be defeated in the GSC tournament.

Freshman Edie Oliver went 4.2 innings against Southern Arkansas, giving up two runs on five hits. Britni Adcox earned the win after throwing 2.1 innings of relief. Erica Harris had two RBIs in the game and Delanie Sloan added what proved to be the game winner with a two-out RBI single in the sixth, scoring Harris.

Oliver (9-5) earned the win against Henderson State, throwing four innings. The first team All-GSC selection gave up three runs on four hits.

Senior Randa Blenden earned the save, her third of the season, throwing three scoreless innings with three strikeouts giving up just one hit.

The Lady Statesmen scored three runs in the first inning as Brittany Tillery, Courtney Clark and Harris all came across to score. Sloan did the damage with yet another two-out RBI hit, which scored Harris after she reached on an error.

Clark finished the day 4-for-6 with two RBIs and two runs scored. Harris went 4-for-9 with two RBIs and two runs scored. Sloan was just 2-for-10 with three RBIs, and senior Lindsay Cordell was 2-for-6 with two RBIs.

The Lady Statesmen finished the season with a 39-26 record overall, while Alabama-Huntsville will play for the GSC crown Sunday.

May 4, 2007

Lady Statesmen drop first round game to Chargers 0-3 at GSC Tournament; DSU to face SAU on Saturday

• Game Box: UAH 3 - DSU 0

SOUTHAVEN – It was a heartbreaking day for the Lady Statesmen as they fell to Alabama-Huntsville 3-0 in the first round of the Gulf South Conference tournament Friday at Greenbrook Park in Southaven, Miss.

Sage Woodham (21-5) had the Lady Statesmen hitters guessing all night as she gave up just five hits in the complete game shutout. The first-team All-GSC selection went 7.0 innings, giving up no runs with two strikeouts in the victory for the Chargers (41-16).

The Lady Statesmen were not without opportunities, however, as they left six runners on base, but they just couldn’t ever get the big hit when it counted against the dominant Woodham.

Edie Oliver (8-5) pitched a solid game as well, going 4.2 innings. The freshman first-team All-GSC selection gave up three runs, one earned, on six hits with two strikeouts.

The Chargers struck first in the second inning when Megan Blanchard singled to left field, driving in Anna Parker. UAH would add two more runs in the fifth as the inning was extended by a two out walk and an error, allowing Kristina Prater to score and bringing Sydney Simpson to the plate. Simpson delivered with a single up the middle, driving in Stephanie Pinto.

The Lady Statesmen threatened again in the bottom of the seventh, getting two base runners with one out, but Woodham clamped down and retired the last two batters to send the Lady Statesmen to the loser’s bracket.

The Lady Statesmen will face West division rival Southern Arkansas on Saturday, May 5, at 11:45 a.m. in an elimination game.

May 4, 2007

Lady Statesmen garner seven All-Gulf South Conference selections

• 2007 All-GSC First & Second Teams

BIRMINGHAM , Ala. - The Delta State University softball team had seven players named to the All-Gulf South Conference First or Second Teams, the league office announced Thursday.

Second baseman Chasey Niebrugge, pitcher Edie Oliver and right fielder Brittany Tillery earned First Team bids, while pitcher Britni Adcox, catcher Courtney Clark, third baseman Delanie Sloan and left fielder Sam St. Hilaire were each named to the Second Team.

Niebrugge leads the Lady Statesmen in doubles, 13, and home runs, 10. The junior from Bonita Springs, Fla., is hitting .369 and has swiped thirteen bases.

Oliver, a freshman from Eupora, has an 8-4 record, a team-low 2.28 ERA and 64 strikeouts in 80.0 innings in the circle, while hitting .317 with 15 RBIs in 63 at-bats.

Tillery tied an NCAA record and set a new GSC record with three triples in a game, while hitting four on the season. The sophomore from Starkville is hitting .366 for the Lady Statesmen and leads the conference with 32 stolen bases in 33 attempts. She also has 12 outfield assists.

Adcox is second in the nation with five saves for the Lady Statesmen and has been a dominant force out of the bullpen. The junior from Covington, La. is 9-4 on the year with a 4.27 ERA and 64 strikeouts in 60.2 innings. The two-time All-GSC selection is also hitting .286 with 13 RBIs and 13 runs scored.

Clark leads the Lady Statesmen with 44 RBIs and is second with eight home runs. The freshman from Little Rock, Ark. is hitting .364 and tied the second longest hitting streak in GSC history with hits in 20 consecutive games.

Sloan leads Delta State with a .375 batting average and has driven in 16 runs and scored 22. The freshman from Bellville, Texas has been dangerous with two outs, hitting .459 with nine RBIs.

Sam St. Hilaire is a three-time All-GSC selection. The junior from Turner, Maine is hitting .359 with 17 RBIs and 26 runs scored and one home run.

The seven selections from the Lady Statesmen’s roster are the most selected from any other school, with Valdosta State also earning seven selections.

Delta State returns to the diamond this Friday in the GSC Tournament in Southaven. The Lady Statesmen play Alabama-Huntsville at 4:15 p.m. at Greenbrook Park.

May 2, 2007

Lady Statesmen looking to make title run at upcoming Gulf South Conference Tournament

CLEVELAND – The Lady Statesmen will be in action Friday, May 4, as they begin their quest for a Gulf South Conference crown.  Delta State, the No. 2 seed out of the West division, will take on the No. 3 seed from the East, Alabama-Huntsville in Southaven, Miss. at 4:15 p.m. at Greenbrook Park.
               
The Lady Statesmen enter the tournament with a record of 37-24, 17-11 in GSC games, while the Chargers are 40-16, 13-10 in GSC.

The Chargers have defeated the Lady Statesmen in five-of-their-last-six contests, including a 9-6 victory over DSU in the 2006 GSC championship game.

The Lady Statesmen are making their 22nd straight appearance in the tournament, including all nine seasons under head coach David Kuhn. Delta State also has 25 wins at the GSC tournament, the most by a school from the conference’s West division.

The winner of the DSU-UAH match-up will take on the winner of No. 1 seed Valdosta State vs. No. 4 seed Southern Arkansas at 8:30 p.m. Friday, while the losers of each game will face each other at 11:45 a.m. Saturday.

April 26, 2007

Delta State’s Edie Oliver garners third Gulf South Conference Pitcher of the Week award

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – Delta State freshman pitcher Edie Oliver is heating up at the right time for the Lady Statesmen softball program.  On Tuesday, the Gulf South Conference named Oliver the West Division Pitcher of the Week for a third time in four weeks. 

Oliver helped the Lady Statesmen to a 5-1 record on the week, picking up two wins against Ouachita Baptist to clinch a spot in the upcoming GSC Tournament. The 5-foot-8 freshman left-hander threw 19.1 innings, allowing only three earned runs while striking out 18. She scattered 12 hits and had a 1.09 ERA.

The Eupora native has emerged as one of the top young pitchers in the GSC this season.  In 21 appearances and 11 starts, Oliver has an 8-4 record with a 2.28 ERA.  In 80 innings pitched, she has allowed 31 runs on 62 hits with 64 strikeouts.  Opponents are batting just .209 against her.

April 21, 2007

Lady Statesmen sweep GSC doubleheader with Lady Tigers of Ouachita Baptist

• Game 1 Box: DSU 6 - OBU 5
• Game 2 Box: DSU 1 - OBU 0

ARKADELPHIA, Ark. - The Lady Statesmen survived in Arkadelphia, Ark. Saturday with two one-run victories over Ouachita Baptist, 6-5 and 1-0.

The wins pushed Delta State’s record to 37-24, 17-11 Gulf South Conference, while Ouachita Baptist dropped to 26-25, 8-15 GSC.

In game one, the Lady Statesmen overcame an early two-run deficit with a three-run fourth and a two-run fifth to take a 5-2 lead. Jackie Stowe and Sam St. Hilaire each scored twice in the two innings and Lindsay Cordell came through with two RBIs.

The Lady Statesmen added another run in the seventh when Delanie Sloan drove in Stowe, who went 3-for-4 with three runs scored, before Ouachita Baptist made things interesting with a three-run home run off the bat of Haley Chambers.

Britni Adcox came in to close the game, getting the last three batters in order for her fourth save of the season.

Randa Blenden (13-8) earned the win, going six innings, giving up five runs on 12 hits.

Beth McGhee took the loss for Ouachita Baptist, working 3.0 plus innings, giving up three runs on five hits.

In game two, Edie Oliver pitched a gem, giving up just two hits and a walk while the Lady Statesmen struggled offensively against a stellar pitching performance by Arial Adair for Ouachita Baptist.

Delta State finally pushed what proved to be the winning run in the top of the seventh when Sloan drove in Courtney Clark, who led off the inning with a double down the right field line.

Adcox came on in relief with two runners on base and one out to secure the win for the Lady Statesmen and record her fifth save of the season.

Oliver (8-4) worked 6.1 innings, giving up just two hits while striking out eight.

Adair went seven innings, giving up one run on five hits with five strikeouts in the loss for Ouachita Baptist.

The Lady Statesmen will be in action again on Friday, May 4, as the Gulf South Conference Tournament gets underway. Start times and opponents are yet to be determined.

April 20, 2007

DSU and HSU split GSC doubleheader in Arkadelphia; Lady Statesmen clinch GSC Tournament berth

• Game 1 Box: HSU 3 - DSU 2
• Game 2 Box: DSU 7 - HSU 5

ARKADELPHIA, Ark. - Brittany Eikner caught a line drive off the bat of Haylee Williams and fired to Lindsay Cordell to double-up Tiffany Stiger for the last two outs in a thrilling game two win over Henderson State, 7-5.

The Lady Statesmen earned a split with the game two victory, pushing their record to 35-24, 15-11 Gulf South Conference, after dropping game one 3-2 to the Lady Reddies (20-13, 12-11 GSC).

Edie Oliver (7-4) pitched well enough to win in game one, giving up just three runs on five hits over six innings, but the Lady Statesmen stranded 13 runners on base, leaving the bases loaded three times.

Katie Corbell (10-4) earned the win for Henderson State, going seven innings, giving up two runs on six hits with five walks.

In game two, the Lady Statesmen had a 4-1 lead after three innings and stretched it to a comfortable six-run lead after the fourth as Chasey Niebrugge, Courtney Clark and Delanie Sloan came across to score on an RBI-single by Cordell and a two-RBI double by Jackie Stowe.

Starting pitcher Britni Adcox was cruising before she ran into a jam in the fifth, giving up four runs, including a three-run home run to Kelcie Glidden, before giving way to Randa Blenden. The senior earned her second save of the season, pitching 2.2 scoreless innings.

Adcox (9-4) earned the win, pitching 4.1 innings. The junior gave up five runs on six hits with two strikeouts.

With the win, the Lady Statesmen clinched a spot in the Gulf South Conference Tournament for the 22nd time in school history.

The Lady Statesmen will be in action again Saturday, April 21, as they play Ouachita Baptist in Arkadelphia, Ark. in a double-header scheduled to begin at 1:00 p.m.

April 19, 2007

Delta State sweeps Ouachita Baptist 3-1 and 2-1; Lady Statesmen raise over $2K in the fight against cancer on "Strikeout Cancer Night"
By Travis Chamblee and Matt Jones

• Game 1 Box: DSU 3 - OBU 1
• Game 2 Box: DSU 2 - OBU 1

CLEVELAND - On senior night at University Field, the seniors came through came through when it counted most as the Lady Statesmen swept Ouachita Baptist with a 3-1 victory in a one and took game two 2-1.
           
Senior pitcher Randa Blenden came into game one in the middle of a fourth inning jam in relief of freshman Kate Moreland. With runners on first and third and no outs, Blenden allowed just one runner to cross home before retiring the side and preserving the Delta State lead.
           
However, the freshmen made just as big of an impact on the outcome. Edie Oliver singled to score Chasey Niebrugge in the first inning and Courtney Clark hit a two-RBI double in the third for the Lady Statesmen’s three runs.
           
Blenden (12-8) pitched three innings, giving up no runs on two hits with four strikeouts to earn the win after Moreland pitched three innings, giving up one run.
           
Beth McGhee (8-6) took the loss for Ouachita Baptist, going six innings while giving up three runs on five hits.
           
Oliver (7-3) pitched a gem, giving up just one unearned run on five hits while striking out seven in seven innings.
           
Senior Lindsay Cordell scored a run in the bottom of the second inning to tie up game two on an RBI-bunt single by another freshman, Brittnay Eikner.
           
The Lady Statesmen scored what proved to be the winning run in the bottom of the third as Clark drove in Britni Adcox with an RBI-single.
           
Ariel Adair (4-6) got the loss for OBU, going six innings, giving up two runs on five hits.
           
Cordell was 1-for-3 with a walk and a run scored. Clark was 3-for-5 with three RBIs.

The night was also the first “Strikeout Cancer Night” at University Field, which proved to be a huge success. In front of a crowd of over 500, fans placed bids on limited edition pink jerseys with the proceeds going to benefit Relay for Life.  When the final tally came in the Lady Statesmen softball program had raised over $1500 in jersey bids and another $500 in donations and visor sales. 

“We have participated in the fight against cancer every year I have been at Delta State,” stated DSU head coach David Kuhn.  “This year we decided to partner with Relay for Life and came up with the idea for Strikeout Cancer Night. I want to thank everyone who placed a bid on our jerseys, purchased a visor or made a donation.”  Kuhn concluded, “I would never have imagined we would have raised this much, but I believe we will do even better next season.”

The Lady Statesmen will travel to Arkadelphia, Ark. this weekend for a pair of Gulf South Conference doubleheaders.  Delta State will face Henderson State on Friday at 2 p.m. at Diamond Reddie Field, while facing the Lady Tigers of Ouachita Baptist for a second time this week on Saturday.  Saturday’s doubleheader is slated for 1 p.m.  All four games will be broadcast on the Lady Statesmen Softball Network beginning five minutes before each game.  J.T. Webb and Travis Chamblee have the call.  

April 15, 2007

GSC Crossover cancelled Sunday due to rain

DECATUR, Ala. - For a second straight day, Sunday's games at the Gulf South Conference Crossover have been cancelled due to inclement weather. No make up dates will be scheduled.

April 13, 2007

GSC Crossover: Lady Statesmen fall to Lady Chargers and Blazers in Decatur

• Game 1 Box: VSU 11 - DSU 3
• Game 2 Box: UAH 9 - DSU 1

DECATUR, Ala. - The Lady Statesmen dropped two costly games to the top two teams in the South Region Friday at the Gulf South Conference Crossover in Decatur, Ala.

The Lady Blazers of Valdosta State overcame a 2-0 deficit in the first inning to beat the Lady Statesmen 11-3 in six innings and then Delta State lost 9-1 in six innings to Alabama-Huntsville, with the eight-run rule coming into effect in both games.

Delta State just couldn’t generate any offense against the talented pitching of Brianna Collis of Valdosta State, who came on in relief, and Sage Woodham, who pitched the entire game for Alabama-Huntsville.

Kristen Lindsey started the game for Valdosta State, going 1.1 innings, giving up two runs on three runs. Ashley Hill came on in relief and gave up a run on two hits in 1.2 innings before giving way to Collis, who pitched three scoreless innings.

The Lady Blazers hit two home runs for three of their runs as they out-hit the Lady Statesmen 17-8.

Hill (7-1) earned the win, going 1.2 innings, giving up one run on two hits with three strikeouts.

Randa Blenden (11-8) took the loss for the Lady Statesmen, working two innings while giving up four runs on six hits.

The Lady Statesmen got nine hits off of Alabama-Huntsville ace Woodham and got another baserunner as Lindsay Cordell was hit by a pitch, but left nine runners on base in the loss.

Woodham (18-4) worked six innings in the win, giving up just one run and struck out eight.

Edie Oliver (6-3) took the loss for Delta State. The freshman gave up seven runs, six earned, on 10 hits.

The Lady Statesmen will be in action again Saturday, April 14, against West Alabama at noon as the Crossover continues.

 

April 12, 2007

GSC Crossover: Lady Statesmen fall to West Florida 6-5; Delta State blasts North Alabama 8-0
By Travis Chamblee, Softball Contact

• Game 1: DSU 5 - UWF 6
• Game 2: DSU 8 - UNA 0 (5 innings)

DECATUR, Ala. - Watching the Lady Statesmen Thursday during the Gulf South Conference Crossover in Decatur, Ala. was like watching two different ball clubs as Delta State lost the opening game to West Florida 6-5 before pouncing on the Lions of North Alabama 8-0 in five innings.
           
Edie Oliver rebounded well after losing to Southern Arkansas, giving up just two hits. She got plenty of offense as well. The Lady Statesmen jumped out to a one-run lead in the first as Oliver drove in Chasey Niebrugge, who reached on an error.
           
The Lady Statesmen then took complete control of the game in the third inning, scoring five runs. Sam St. Hilaire doubled with one out, before Courtney Clark, Oliver and Nicole Fontenot each singled. Brittany Eikner then laid down a sacrifice bunt and third baseman Amy Goebel threw the ball away at first, allowing Clark and Oliver to score. Brittany Tillery drove in Fontenot and Brittany Adcox singled to plate Eikner.
           
North Alabama never recovered from the big inning and the Lady Statesmen added two more runs in the fifth as Adcox ended the game early with an RBI-single.
           
Stephanie Glienke (10-5) took the loss for the Lions, going 2.2 innings giving up six runs, two earned, on seven hits and a walk.
           
Oliver (6-2) went five innings, giving up just two hits with three strikeouts in the win.
           
In game one, West Florida hit three home runs and Emily Burge had the Lady Statesmen hitters off balance for most of the game before Delta State finally made her pay for mistakes in the late innings.
           
The Lady Statesmen scored a run in the third and two in the fifth, all due to either walks or hit batsmen. They added two more in the sixth to cut the Argonaut lead to one before Burge settled down to close the game and end Delta State’s hopes of a comeback victory.
           
The Lady Statesmen will be in action again Friday, April 13, against Valdosta State at 2:00 p.m. and against Alabama-Huntsville at 6:00 p.m. as the GSC Crossover continues.

April 10, 2007

Lady Statesmen vs. Delta Devilettes cancelled due to inclement weather

ITTA BENA - Officials at Mississippi Valley State University announced Tuesday afternoon that the series with Delta State University scheduled for Tuesday night at 6 p.m. had been cancelled due to inclement weather. No make-up dates are planned.

April 6, 2007

Lady Statesmen drop two close GSC games 4-2 and 4-2 at Southern Arkansas

• Game 1 Box: SAU 4 - DSU 2
• Game 2 Box: SAU 4 - DSU 3

MAGNOLIA, Ark. - The Lady Riders of Southern Arkansas University (21-20, 9-7 GSC) swept a pair of close Gulf South Conference games 4-2 and 4-3 from the Lady Statesmen (31-20, 11-7 GSC) Friday at the Ballpark on Stadium.

In game one, SAU's Tisha Thompson smashed two home runs and drove in four to down the Lady Statesmen 4-2. The junior went 3-for-4 to pace SAU.

In game two, the Lady Statesmen rallied from 4-0 down to make it a game late. Brittany Tillery's deep drive to the fence fell just short of leaving the park to seal SAU's sweep.

Edie Oliver (5-2) took the loss in game one, while Sam St. Hilaire (2-4) was saddled with the loss in game two.

The Lady Statesmen return to action Tuesday at Mississippi Valley State in Itta Bena. Game time is set for 6 p.m.

 

April 5, 2007

Lady Statesmen smash Lady Blazers 10-3
By Travis Chamblee, Softball Contact

• Box Score: Delta State 10 - Belhaven 3

RIDGELAND - Kate Moreland pitched seven solid innings and took advantage of 15 hits by the Lady Statesmen as Delta State cruised to a 10-3 win over the Blazers of Belhaven College (26-13) in Ridgeland Thursday.

The Lady Statesmen (31-18) jumped on the board early with a run in the top of the first inning as Chasey Niebrugge, the leadoff hitter, reached first after getting hit by a pitch. Lindsay Cordell sacrificed her to second and she scored on Delanie Sloan’s RBI-double.

Delta State added another run in the second when Kristi Basso scored from third on a passed ball. Cordell and Sloan singled to start the third inning, bringing Courtney Clark to the plate with two on base and no outs. She came through with a blast over the right center field fence, her eighth home run of the season, to give Delta State a 5-0 lead. Sam St. Hilaire and Basso both reached safely with two outs and scored on Erica Harris’ RBI-double.

The Lady Statesmen plated two more runs in the fourth when Clark roped a double to the fence in right center, scoring Sloan from first. Brittany Tillery then reached on an error which advanced Clark to third, bringing Sam St. Hilaire to the plate with one out. She singled driving in Clark to stretch the lead to nine.

With the eight-run rule breathing down their necks, the Blazers scored three runs in the bottom of the fifth when Britney Webb belted a triple down the left field line to clear the bases and cut the lead to six.

Delta State got one run back in the seventh on a home run to left field by Harris, her second of the season.

Moreland (4-4) retired three straight Blazers in the seventh to end Belhaven’s hopes of a comeback. The freshman pitcher went seven innings, giving up three runs, all unearned, on three hits and struck out eight.

Karin Perry (4-2) took the loss for the Blazers. She lasted two-plus innings, giving up five runs, four earned, on six hits.

Clark went 2-for-4 with four RBIs and two runs scored, Sloan was 3-for-3 with an RBI and two runs scored and St. Hilaire went 2-for-3 with an RBI and a run scored. Harris led the Lady Statesmen, going 4-for-4 with four RBIs and a run scored.

The Lady Statesmen will be in action again Friday, April 6, as they travel to Magnolia, Ark. for a double-header against the Lady Muleriders at 2:00 p.m. Both games will be broadcast live at www.gostatesmen.com.

April 4, 2007

Delta State and Southern Arkansas split GSC doubleheader at University Field
By Travis Chamblee, Softball Contact

• Game 1 Box: SAU 3 - DSU 1
• Game 2 Box: DSU 3 - SAU 2

CLEVELAND - Freshman pitcher Edie Oliver was dominant in the circle again for the Lady Statesmen as they split a double-header with the Lady Muleriders of Southern Arkansas Wednesday night winning the second game 3-2.

Southern Arkansas scored three runs in the top of the second inning on a two-run home run by Kirstie Reed. The Lady Riders would hold on to win the first game 3-1.

The Lady Statesmen scored one run in the bottom of the third on an RBI-single by Courtney Clark, but couldn’t muster up anything else off of SAU pitcher Rebecca Forse (9-10). The right-hander went seven innings, giving up one run on four hits while striking out five.

Randa Blenden (11-7) went one inning, giving up three runs on three hits with one strikeout.

In game two, Southern Arkansas scored two runs in the top of the first inning on an error and an RBI by Tisha Thompson, but Oliver (5-1) worked through the damage. The two-time GSC Pitcher of the Week went seven innings, giving up two runs, both unearned, on four hits and struck out one.

The Lady Statesmen scored all three runs in the bottom of the third inning on RBIs by Chasey Niebrugge, Sam St. Hilaire and Courtney Clark.

Niebrugge went 3-for-5 with a run scored and an RBI in the two games, and Clark went 1-for-3 with an RBI in game one, but her 20-game hitting streak was snapped in game two.

The Lady Statesmen will be in action again Thursday, April 5, as they travel to Jackson to play one game against Belhaven College at 5:00 p.m.

April 3, 2007

Delta State’s Edie Oliver garners second-straight GSC Pitcher of the Week honor
By Travis Chamblee, Softball Contact

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – Delta State University freshman Edie Oliver, a 5-foot-7 pitcher from Eupora, earned her second straight Gulf South Conference West Division Pitcher of the Week honor on Tuesday for the period ending April 3. It is the fourth honor of the season for the Lady Statesmen. 
               
Oliver set a season high for strikeouts in a game among all Lady Statesmen pitchers with nine as she threw a complete game seven inning shutout against the Golden Suns of Arkansas Tech Thursday.  The crafty left-hander gave up just five hits as the Lady Statesmen won 4-0.
               
Oliver repeated the feat on Friday, striking out nine Lady Reddies in a 2-0 win. She struck out 18 in 14 innings to go 2-0 with no walks and no runs allowed, pushing her record to 4-1 on the year. She has lowered her ERA to a team-leading 2.21 with 37 strikeouts and 12 walks on the season.
               
Oliver and the Lady Statesmen are set for a GSC four-game stint against Southern Arkansas with the first two games Wednesday, April 4, in Cleveland starting at 5:00 p.m.

March 30, 2007

Oliver delivers second straight shutout for Lady Statesmen despite series split with HSU
By Travis Chamblee, Softball Contact

• Game 1 Box: HSU 6 - DSU 2
• Game 2 Box: DSU 2 - HSU 0  

CLEVELAND (University Field) - For the second night in a row, Delta State’s Edie Oliver, a 5-foot-7 freshman from Eupora, struck out nine batters going seven scoreless innings as the Lady Statesmen took game two 2-0 in a double-header Friday night against Henderson State.

The Lady Reddies managed a 6-2 victory in game one to earn the split. Henderson State pushed their record to 14-8 and 6-6 in Gulf South Conference play, while the Lady Statesmen moved to 28-17 and 10-4 in conference.

Oliver (4-1) was the beneficiary of an RBI squeeze bunt by Chasey Niebrugge and an RBI single Nicole Fontenot which proved to be all the offense the Lady Statesmen would need.

Patti Collins (4-5) took the loss for Henderson State, going six innings while giving up two runs on seven hits with three strikeouts.

The Lady Reddies opened game one with an offensive explosion with six runs over the first three innings, including a three-run home run by Alicia Volkner.

The Lady Statesmen scored a run in the first as Niebrugge came across to score and Courtney Clark hit a home run to straight-away centerfield in the bottom of the fifth, but Katie Corbell (6-2) was solid in the win for the Lady Reddies. She gave up just two runs on five hits in seven innings and struck out one batter.

Randa Blenden (11-6) took the loss for the Lady Statesmen, going just 1.2 innings giving up three runs, two earned, on four hits, but struck out three.

The Lady Statesmen will be in action again Wednesday, April 4, as they travel to Southern Arkansas for a GSC doubleheader scheduled to start at 4:00 p.m. The games will be internet broadcast on the Lady Statesmen Softball Network. J.T. Webb has the call.

March 29, 2007

Lady Statesmen cool off Golden Suns 11-3 and 4-0 Thursday at University Field

• Game 1 Box: DSU 11 - ATU 3
• Game 2 Box: DSU 4 - ATU 0

CLEVELAND (University Field) - Edie Oliver proved she deserved her GSC West Division Pitcher of the Week award, striking out nine hitters and giving up zero runs in the second game of a double-header sweep of Arkansas Tech as the Lady Statesmen won 4-0. Delta State claimed game one 11-3. The Lady Statesmen improved to 28-16, 9-3 in Gulf South Conference play, while the Golden Suns dropped to 9-19 overall and 4-8 in league play.

The Lady Statesmen pounded Golden Sun pitching for 11 runs in game one to win 11-3 in five innings.

Chasey Niebrugge started things off for the Lady Statesmen with a lead-off hit in the first inning of game one as the Lady Statesmen took a two-run lead. They added one more in the second before breaking the game open with four runs in the third.

After Arkansas Tech tried to make it close with a run in the top of the fourth and another in the fifth, the Lady Statesmen plated four runs in the bottom of the fifth to end the game on Kristi Basso’s RBI single.

Randa Blenden (11-5) went four innings in the win. The senior gave up just two runs on four hits and recorded three strikeouts. Adcox closed the game out going one inning giving up a run on one hit.

Oliver (3-1) kept hitters off balance all night in game two with an excellent combination of breaking pitches and fast balls as she struck out a season high nine batters. The freshman went seven innings giving up zero runs on just five hits.

Niebrugge went a combined 3-for-7 with three runs scored. Brittany Tillery went 4-for-4 with four runs scored and two RBIs. Oliver also contributed in a big way at the plate going 4-for-6 with two runs scored and three RBIs.

The Lady Statesmen will be in action again Friday, March 29 as they host the Lady Reddies of Henderson State for a double-header starting at 5:00 p.m.

March 27, 2007

Edie Oliver tabbed GSC West Pitcher of the Week

CLEVELAND— Delta State University freshman left-hander Edie Oliver has been named the Gulf South Conference West Division Softball Pitcher of the Week for the period ending Sunday, March 25.  It is the first honor of the season for Oliver and the third for the Lady Statesmen. 

Oliver went 2-0 on the week for the Lady Statesman, picking wins against William Carey and North Alabama. The freshman threw a complete game against UNA, allowing only two runs while punching out six batters. Oliver threw 13 innings on the week, allowing only two runs and eight hits.

This season, Oliver has amassed a record of 2-1 with a 3.50 ERA.  She has appeared in 12 games with two starts.  In 24 innings pitched, she has allowed 14 runs on 17 hits with 12 walks and 19 strikeouts.  Opponents are batting just .189 against her this season. 

March 25, 2007

Delta State claims sweep of North Alabama 5-2 and 4-3 at Southaven Clash
By Travis Chamblee, Softball Contact

SOUTHAVEN -A two-out RBI hit by Courtney Clark in the bottom of the seventh inning gave the Lady Statesmen a 4-3 victory in game two and clinched the double-header sweep of North Alabama Sunday at the Southaven Clash, after an outstanding pitching performance by Edie Oliver earned a 5-2 win in game one.

North Alabama jumped out to an early one-run lead in game two when Lindsay Bates drove in Lindsey Greene in the top of the first inning. The Lady Statesmen got the run right back in the bottom of the second on Delanie Sloan’s first home run of the season, a solo shot over the left field fence.

The Lady Statesmen took over the lead on Oliver’s two-RBI single in the bottom of the third inning, scoring Chasey Niebrugge and Sam St. Hilaire.

The Lions cut the lead to one in the top of the fifth and tied the game in the top of the seventh on Greene’s RBI single, setting the stage for Clark’s seventh inning heroics.

After Niebrugge was caught stealing to make the second out of the inning, St. Hilaire singled to left and advanced to second on an error. Oliver was then hit by a pitch to extend the inning and bring Clark to the plate with two on and two out.

Clark delivered with a shot to right-center which easily scored St. Hilaire from second base.

Randa Blenden (10-5) pitched 6.2 innings in the no-decision, giving up three runs on six hits with four strikeouts, and Britni Adcox got the final out of the seventh inning to earn her eighth win of the season.

Megan Niesel (5-3) took the loss for the Lions going 6.2 innings, giving up four runs on 11 hits.

In game one, Oliver pitched a shutout through six innings before giving up a two-RBI double to Kim Lee in the bottom of the seventh, but it wouldn’t be enough as the Lady Statesmen had already built a five-run lead prior to the last at bat by the Lions.

Oliver went seven complete, giving up two runs on just five hits with six strikeouts.

Brittany Tillery delivered with three RBIs in the game, going 2-for-7 on the day. Niebrugge was 4-for-8 with three runs scored, St. Hilaire was 4-for-7 with four runs scored and an RBI, and Sloan was 4-for-6 with an RBI and a run scored.

Sabrina Roberts (9-3) took the loss for North Alabama, going seven innings while giving up five runs on 10 hits with one strikeout.

The Lady Statesmen will be in action Tuesday, March 27, as they host Mississippi Valley State at 6:00 p.m. The game can be heard live at www.gostatesmen.com.

 

 

March 24, 2007

UAH sweeps Lady Statesmen 6-0 and 1-0 in day one at Southaven Clash

SOUTHAVEN - The Lady Statesmen just couldn’t find any offense as they dropped a double-header to the No. 8 Chargers of the University of Alabama-Huntsville, 6-0 in game one and a heartbreaking 1-0 loss in game two, in non-conference action at the Southaven Clash Saturday.

The Charges hit two home runs in the top of the fourth inning for three runs off the bats of Jenny Hess and Sage Woodham to stretch their lead from 1-0 to 4-0, and they never looked back.

Randa Blenden (10-5) was solid in the early going, but couldn’t keep the bats cold for long as she took the loss. The senior went 4.1 innings, giving up six runs on seven hits and recorded three strikeouts.

Sage Woodham (13-3) was as close to perfect as it gets in the circle. The Charger pitcher went seven innings, giving up just four hits compared to six strikeouts.

Sam St. Hilaire (2-3) pitched one of her better games this season, but again, couldn’t get any help from her teammates at the plate. The junior gave up just four hits over five scoreless innings before giving up what became the decisive hit before being pulled, as Jenny Hess hit a double to centerfield. She then scored on a wild pitch after being advancing to third on a fielder’s choice.

The Lady Statesmen only managed eight hits as they dropped to 24-16 overall after the two losses, while the Chargers improved to 27-8.

They will face North Alabama in a double-header tomorrow starting at 11:00 a.m. as the Southaven Clash continues.

March 21, 2007

Lady Statesmen and Lady Crusaders split Wednesday doubleheader in Hattiesburg
By Travis Chamblee

HATTIESBURG - Despite an outstanding pitching performance by Randa Blenden, the Lady Statesmen dropped game one 1-0 and had to settle for a split of the two-game double-header against William Carey Wednesday, bouncing back to win game two 5-4.
           
In game one, Blenden (10-4) gave up just one run in six innings, scattering six hits and recording three strikeouts, as she took the loss for the Lady Statesmen (24-14, 7-3 Gulf South Conference).

The Lady Crusaders (14-15) earned the decisive run in the bottom of the fifth inning when Jill Wedgeworth tripled to drive in Shelly Berry.
           
Devin King (7-8) earned the win for William Carey, scattering four hits over seven innings.
           
King started the second game in the circle for William Carey, but lasted just 1.1 innings after pitching the entire first game as well.
           
The Lady Statesmen took full advantage of a tired King, jumping out to a three-run lead in the top of the second inning, with Britni Adcox, Jackie Stowe and Chasey Niebrugge all scoring after hitting safely, all charged to King.
           
Delta State added another run in the top of the third off of Brittany Fuller, when Delanie Sloan scored on Adcox’s RBI-double.
           
William Carey got a run in the bottom of the third to cut into the lead on and RBI-double by Danielle Martin. Maghan James doubled to lead off the bottom of the fourth for William Carey, and that ended Sam St. Hilaire’s day in the circle. She eventually came around to score to cut the lead to two.
           
St. Hilaire pitched well, giving up two runs in three innings. She gave up five hits and struck out two batters before giving way to Edie Oliver.
           
William Carey cut the lead to one with a two-out run in the bottom of the fifth inning, but the Lady Statesmen added what would prove to be the decisive run in the top of the seventh inning when Sloan singled to drive in St. Hilaire, who reentered the game to pinch run for Oliver.
           
William Carey’s comeback effort came up short as they could only score one run in the bottom of the seventh.
           
Oliver (1-1) earned the win, going four innings, giving up two runs on three hits with three strikeouts.
           
Niebrugge and Sloan each went 2-for-4 with an RBI and a run scored in game two. Adcox added a 2-for-3 performance with an RBI and a run scored, while Courtney Clark went a combined 4-for-7 in the two games.
           
The Lady Statesmen will be in action this weekend, March 24-25, at the Southaven Clash in Southaven. They will play a double-header against Alabama-Huntsville Saturday starting at 4:00 p.m. and a double-header against North Alabama Sunday starting at 11:00 a.m.

March 21, 2007

Tillery named GSC Player of the Week; Sets new GSC record for triples in a game

CLEVELAND—Delta State University sophomore Brittany Tillery was named the Gulf South Conference West Division Player of the Week after leading the Lady Statesmen softball team to a 6-0 mark for the period ending Sunday, March 18.  It is the first honor for Tillery and the third for the Lady Statesmen this season.
               
The sophomore from Starkville hit .650 at the plate, going 13-for-20 with eight runs scored and six RBI. Tillery also used her speed to the advantage of the Lady Statesmen, going a perfect 7-for-7 in the stolen base category.
               
Tillery, a 5-foot-8 outfielder, also set a single-game record for triples with three against Stillman University on Saturday, March 17. Tillery currently has four triples on the season, good for fourth place on the single season triples list.
               
Tillery’s feat also established a new Gulf South Conference record for triples in a game.  The feat was so rare that it has only been accomplished nine times in the history of Division II NCAA softball, with the last occurring on April 26, 2000.   

March 20, 2007

DSU and UAM split mid-week GSC doubleheader
By Travis Chamblee

• Game 1: Delta State 6, UA-Monticello 4
• Game 2: UA-Monticello 9, Delta State 8

MONTICELLO, Ark. - The Lady Statesmen traveled to Monticello, Ark. with one thing in the back of their minds, the long ball. After watching Arkansas-Monticello (26-11, 5-3 Gulf South Conference) blast 18 home runs over four games at the Delta State Classic just three days earlier, they knew it would be no small task to tame the hot-hitting bats of the Cotton Blossoms.

They did just that, however, giving up just two home runs in two games as the Lady Statesmen (23-13, 7-3 GSC) earned a split of the doubleheader, winning game one 6-4 and dropping the second 9-8.

In game one, Courtney Clark put Delta State on the board in the top of the first inning with an RBI single which scored Erica Harris, but the lead wouldn’t last long as Meredith heckle doubled to lead off the inning for the Cotton Blossoms. With two outs, Becca Tipton doubled, scoring Heckel and tying the game.

The Cotton Blossoms added three more runs in the bottom of the fourth inning to take the lead; again it was a lead that would be short lived.

The Lady Statesmen got four of their first five batters on base to lead off the fifth inning, and all four scored to give Delta State a 5-4 lead, one which they would not relinquish. They added one more insurance run in the top of the seventh and pitcher Randa Blenden shut down the Cotton Blossom batters to secure the victory for the Lady Statesmen.

Blenden (10-3) worked all seven inning, giving up four runs on 11 hits while recording three strikeouts.

The second game would turn out to be even more of a nail-biter for both dugouts.

The Lady Statesmen jumped out to a 6-0 lead after the top of the fourth, with three runs in the top of the second and three in the top of the fourth.

Brittany Eikner drove in two runs with fly ball that was just out of reach of UAM-right fielder Kate Brady, and then came around to score in the second.

The Cotton Blossoms committed two costly throwing errors in the third, which allowed three more runs to score, however, they would make up for those errors in the bottom of the fourth with eight runs to take an 8-6 lead.

They added one more in the bottom of the fifth on a home run by Sarah Reed.

The Lady Statesmen cut the lead to one with two runs in the top of the sixth inning with an RBI double by Harris which scored Brittany Tillery, and an RBI single by Edie Oliver which scored Harris. Heather Greer came in to pinch run for Oliver, but was thrown out at home to end the Lady Statesmen threat.

Delta State could only get one runner on base in the top of the seventh as their comeback effort fell just short.

The Lady Statesmen will be in action again Wednesday, March 20, as they travel to Hattiesburg for a double-header against William Carey College. The first game will begin at 2:00 p.m. and can be heard live at www.gostatesmen.com.

March 17, 2007

Lady Statesmen blast Benedict 12-0 and Stillman 13-4 to close DSU Classic
By Travis Chamblee, Softball Contact

• Game 1 Box: DSU 12 - Benedict 0
• Game 2 Box: DSU 13 - Stillman 4

CLEVELAND - Brittany Tillery had a record-setting day, going a combined 7-for-8 with three triples in one game, a feat that has never been accomplished in Delta State softball history. The sophomore from Starkville also had four RBIs and five runs scored to lead the Lady Statesmen to two wins, a 12-0 thrashing of Benedict College and a 13-4 victory over Stillman College Saturday to close the Delta State Classic at University Field.

The Lady Statesmen (22-12, 6-2 Gulf South Conference) scored three runs in the first two innings against Benedict (8-17) on an RBI single by Courtney Clark and a two-run home run by Chasey Niebrugge (9).

The Lady Statesmen put the game away with a five-spot in the third. Nicole Fontenot (6) hit a one-out, two-run blast to straight away centerfield scoring Clark. Niebrugge added an RBI single and Tillery singled in two more runs to push the lead to 8-0.

The Lady Statesmen added one more in the fourth and three in the fifth to polish off Benedict.

Sam St. Hilaire (2-2) and Kate Moreland combined for a no-hitter inside the pitcher’s circle. St. Hilaire went 3.0 innings with three strikeouts and Moreland recorded two strikeouts in the final two innings.

Shaneaqua Pringle took the loss for Benedict, working 4.1 innings. She gave up 12 runs on 17 hits.

Against Stillman, the Lady Statesmen jumped out to a four-run lead in the top of the first on a two-out, two-RBI triple by Brittany Eikner, scoring Niebrugge and Tillery, and an RBI double by Delanie Sloan, who scored when Lindsay Cordell reached on a error.

Stillman scored a run in the bottom of the first, but couldn’t find enough offense to counter the hot bats of the Lady Statesmen, who added two more runs in the top of the second inning and a four spot in the top of the third, highlighted by St. Hilaire’s inside the park home run in the second.

Stillman battled back, cutting the lead to 11-4 with two runs in the bottom of the third and one more in the bottom of the fifth to extend the ballgame into a decisive sixth inning.

In the top of the sixth, the Lady Statesmen scored two runs with two outs. Jackie Stowe hit an RBI double which scored Heather Greer, bringing up Tillery with St. Hilaire on third base. She came through with a single, scoring St. Hilaire to give Delta State an insurance run with Stillman coming to bat in the bottom of the sixth.

After pitching the fourth inning before giving way to Kelly Stokes, Edie Oliver came back in to close out the came, getting Stillman to go 1-2-3 in the sixth to end the game.

Britni Adcox (7-2) started and earned the win, going 3.0 innings. The junior from Covington, La. gave up three runs, two earned, on six hits and struck out two. Oliver went two innings, giving up just one walk, and Stokes gave up a run on one hit and recorded a strikeout.

Robyn Beatty took the loss for Stillman, working six innings. She gave up 13 runs on 17 hits and struck out three.

Arkansas-Monticello also played both teams, beating Benedict 10-0 and Stillman 20-0. The Cotton Blossoms hit 12 home runs on the day as they were on cruise control.

The Lady Statesmen will be in action Tuesday as they travel to Monticello, Ark. to take on the Cotton Blossoms in a Gulf South Conference doubleheader scheduled to begin at 1:00 p.m. The games will be internet broadcast on the Statesmen Sports Network starting at 12:55 p.m. J.T. Webb and Travis Chamblee have the call.

March 16, 2007

Lady Statesmen pick up a pair of wins in the first round of the DSU Classic

CLEVELAND - The Lady Statesmen exhausted their opponents pitching Saturday, scoring a combined 17 runs on their way to two wins at the Delta State Classic, a 12-0 win over Benedict College and a 5-0 win over Stillman University.

The Lady Statesmen (20-12, 6-2 Gulf South Conference) scored two in the first on an RBI single by Erica Harris followed by Courtney Clark’s solo home run over the left field wall into a stiff wind. They added another run in the second, but broke it open in the third with three runs.

Kelly Stokes (1-0) earned the win going four innings, giving up two hits and striking out three.

Natassia Wilkes took the loss for Benedict (8-15). She went four innings, giving up 12 runs on nine hits, with five strikeouts.

Randa Blenden pitched seven innings, scattering just four hits against Stillman while recording six strikeouts to give the Lady Statesmen their second win of the day.

The Lady Statesmen scored a run each in the first two innings and added three more in the third, two on squeeze bunts and Stillman pitcher April Ball walked in a run with the bases loaded.

Ball went six innings in the loss. She gave up five runs on nine hits and a walk and struck out three.

Clark finished 3-for-4 with two RBIs and three runs scored, while Chasey Niebrugge was 1-for-3 with an RBI and three runs scored. She also reached on a walk and was hit by a pitch.

The Lady Statesmen will be in action again Saturday as the Delta State Classic continues, with the Lady Statesmen playing at noon.

March 14, 2007

Delta State's Britni Adcox named Gulf South Conference West Pitcher of the Week

CLEVELAND – Delta State University junior pitcher Britni Adcox has been named the Gulf South Conference West Division Pitcher of the Week for the period ending Monday, March 13. It is the first honor of the season for Adcox and the second award earned by a Lady Statesmen.
               
Adcox, a 6-foot-1 right-hander, earned the honor after posting a 3-0 record, leading the Lady Statesmen to a 4-2 mark for the week.  The Covington, La. native opened the week with a complete game against conference rival Arkansas-Monticello, earning a 9-6 victory to give the Lady Statesmen a split for the two-game double-header. Adcox struck out six in the victory.
               
She also earned two of the Lady Statesmen’s three wins over Christian Brothers, pitching a total of six innings while giving up just one run on three hits. She struck out 12 batters in the two games, taking her weekly total to 18.
               
On the season, Adcox is 6-2 with a 3.67 ERA and two saves.  In 19 appearances, she has pitched 40.0 innings, with 47 strikeouts and 20 walks. She is also quite the hitter, posting a .308 batting average, with seven RBIs and six runs scored in 39 at-bats.

March 13, 2007

Lady Statesmen sweep Golden Suns 9-3, 4-0
By Travis Chamblee, Softball Contact

RUSSELLVILLE, Ark. - Junior pitcher Sam St. Hilaire gave up just two hits in seven innings to earn her first win of the season in the circle, a 4-0 victory over the Golden Sun of Arkansas Tech, which claimed the double-header sweep for the Lady Statesmen in Russellville, Ark. Tuesday. The Lady Statesmen scored four runs in the top of the seventh to claim a 9-3 win in game one.

The wins pushed the Lady Statesmen’s record to 18-12 ( 6-2 Gulf South Conference), while dropping Arkansas Tech to 5-13 (0-2 GSC).

St. Hilaire (1-2) had been shaky in her previous six starts, but in game two of the double-header, she looked like the All-GSC pitcher that fans had come accustomed to seeing for the green and white.

Courtney Clark provided what would prove to be all the offense needed by the Lady Statesmen with a solo-home run to lead off the top of the second inning, a blast that had no problem clearing the left field wall.

The Lady Statesmen would add more runs, however, scoring a run each in the fourth, fifth and sixth innings on RBI singles by Brittany Eikner, Chasey Niebrugge and Brittany Tillery.

Emily Horne (2-5) took the loss for the Golden Suns, working five innings while giving up four runs on five hits with a walk and three hit batsmen.

In game one, Niebrugge led off the Lady Statesmen scoring with an RBI single which scored Delanie Sloan in the top of the second.

Arkansas Tech tied the game in the bottom of the fourth on an RBI single by Dana Aldrich which scored pinch runner Kelli Vogt.

Delta State would answer right back with two runs in the top of the fifth on a two-RBI single by Clark which allowed Niebrugge and Erica Harris to cross the plate. The Lady Statesmen added two more runs in the top of the sixth on a two-RBI single by Lindsay Cordell, scoring Niebrugge and Tillery.

The Golden Suns cut into the lead with two runs of their own in the bottom of the sixth, but that was as close as they got.

The Lady Statesmen strung together four straight hits after Clark’s lead-off walk to add four runs in the top of the seventh, and Britni Adcox, who came on in relief in the bottom of the sixth, shut down the Golden Suns in the seventh.

Randa Blenden (8-3) started the game for the Lady Statesmen, earning the win. The senior went five innings, giving up three runs on five hits and three walks and recorded three strikeouts. Adcox worked two scoreless innings, giving up two hits and a walk to earn her second save of the season.

Aldrich (2-4) took the loss for Arkansas Tech, going six innings while allowing nine runs on 15 hits and a walk.

The Lady Statesmen will be at home Friday and Saturday as they host the Delta State Classic featuring Benedict College, Stillman College and the University of Arkansas-Monticello. The first game will be at noon between Benedict and UAM, with Delta State and Benedict to follow.

The Lady Statesmen also invite their families to celebrate “Parents Day” Saturday.

March 10, 2007

Lady Statesmen and Lady Bucs split GSC doubleheader Saturday in Memphis

• Game 1 Box Score
• Game 2 Box Score

MEMPHIS, Tenn. - The Lady Statesmen railed off 15 hits and took advantage of four Lady Buc errors to beat Christian Brothers 16-2, bouncing back from a gut wrenching 5-4 loss that went 10 innings in the first game of a double-header in Memphis Saturday.

The Lady Statesmen (16-12, 4-2 Gulf South Conference) jumped on Lady Bucs pitcher Kallie McFatter for the second time in three days, going all the way through the lineup to score five runs in the top of the first inning.

Chasey Niebrugge singled to lead off the game and scored on an RBI single by Lindsay Cordell. Erica Harris reached on an error, and Courtney Clark single up the middle to drive in Cordell and Harris. Clark scored on Britni Adcox’s sacrifice bunt, and Brittany Tillery singled to score Brittany Eikner for the Lady Statesmen’s fifth run of the inning.

The Lady Bucs (8-6, 1-3 GSC) scored one run in the bottom of the first on an RBI double by Lauren Zavelli, but would not get another run until the bottom of the fifth. By that time, it was too little too late.

Delta State added two more runs on a two-run home run by Nicole Fontenot, her fifth of the season, and unloaded the artillery for six runs, capped off by a two-RBI single by Eikner, giving the Lady Statesmen a 13-1 advantage.

They added three more runs in the top of the fifth with an RBI single by Tillery and a two RBI triple by Edie Oliver.

Adcox (6-2) earned the win going three innings, giving up just one run on two hits with four strikouts. Oliver worked the last two innings, giving up a run on three hits with two strikeouts.

Kallie McFatter (3-4) worked four innings taking the loss for the Lady Bucs, giving up 13 runs on 12 hits with two strikeouts.

In game one, the Lady Bucs took a two-run lead in the first inning with and RBI single by Zavelli and an RBI-double by Sammy Maness.

The Lady Statesmen tied the game in the top of the third inning on an RBI double by Niebrugge and an RBI single by Harris, then took the lead in the top of the fifth when Tillery scored on a botched attempt to get Niebrugge out at first. The error cost the Lady Bucs again when Harris hit a bunt single that scored Niebrugge.

Just as the Lady Statesmen looked as if they were going to blow the game wide open, with runners at first and third, Kristi Basso hit a looping line drive over the head of the first baseman that was caught by second baseman, Lauren Hearn. She stepped on first and threw to third in time to catch Adcox for the triple play.

Christian Brothers scored a run in the sixth and tied the score at four with a two-out RBI in the bottom of the seventh to send the game to extra innings.

Meagan Shackleford started at the 10 th inning at second by the international tiebreak rule and advanced to third on Stephanie Keaton’s fly out to right field. Zavelli delivered with a single to give the Lady Bucs the victory.

Nikki Dunn (5-2) went all 10 innings for the win, giving up four runs on 11 hits with six strikeouts.

Randa Blenden (7-3) took the loss for the Lady Statesmen, going 9.1 innings, allowing five runs on 13 hits with six strikeouts.

The Lady Statesmen will travel to Russellville, Ark. Tuesday for a double-header against the Golden Suns of Arkansas Tech. The first game is scheduled for 1:00 p.m.

March 8, 2007

Blenden and the Lady Statesmen sweep GSC doubleheader from CBU

• Game 1 - DSU 9, CBU 1 Box Score
• Game 2 - DSU 8, CBU 0 Box Score

CLEVELAND - The Lady Statesmen of Delta State University swept a Gulf South Conference doubleheader with the Lady Bucs of Christian Brothers 9-1 and 8-0 on Thursday at University Field.

Randa Blenden showed why she is an All-GSC pitcher Thursday earning her seventh win of the season against the Lady Bucs, 9-1. The senior gave up just one run on five hits in seven innings and recorded five strikeouts to zero walks.

The Lady Statesmen (15-11, 3-1 Gulf South Conference) drew first blood in the bottom of the third when Chasey Niebrugge doubled to the left-centerfield wall, driving in Brittany Tillery.

Delanie Sloan drove in the Lady Statesmen’s second run in the fourth with a bases-loaded bunt single scoring Courtney Clark. Niebrugge then hit a bases clearing double, driving in three more runs to push the lead to five.

Christian Brothers (7-5, 0-2 GSC) got their lone run in the top of the sixth inning with a solo home by Lauren Zavelli.

Jackie Stowe and Sloan both singled and scored on Tillery’s double to leftfield. Niebrugge then ended the game with a two-run home run to left, her eighth of the season.

Nikki Dunn (4-2) took the loss for Christian Brothers, giving up nine runs on nine hits with three walks and five strikeouts.

The Lady Statesmen need just five innings to put away the Lady Bucs in the nightcap. Britni Adcox and Kelly Stokes combined to give up just one hit and two walks, both by Adcox, over the course of the game.

Niebrugge walked to lead of the game for Delta State and advanced to second on a sacrifice bunt by Adcox. Erica Harris was then hit by a pitch and Clark reached on a fielder’s choice, with Niebrugge forced out at third. Nicole Fontenot doubled to left center to give the Lady Statesmen a two-run lead.

In the second inning, Adcox walked with the bases loaded to bring in the third run. Harris hit into a fielder’s choice: Sloan was forced out at home. Clark hit a sharp ground ball to third that was thrown past the first baseman allowing Adcox and Niebrugge to score, giving the Lady Statesmen a 5-0 lead.

The Lady Statesmen added three more runs in the third on an RBI double by Heather Greer, an RBI single by Jackie Stowe that allowed Sam St. Hilaire to score, and a sacrifice fly by Adcox that drove in Stowe.

Adcox (5-2) earned the win, pitching three innings with just one hit and two walks.

Kallie McFatter (3-3) took the loss for Christian Brothers. She pitched four innings, giving up eight runs on six hits and three walks.

Niebrugge went 3-for-3 with two walks on the day, scoring a run and driving in six. Sloan was 4-for-5 with an RBI and two runs scored. Tillery was 3-for-5 with two RBIs and three runs scored, and Stowe was 2-for-3 with a walk, an RBI and three runs scored.

The Lady Statesmen will travel to Memphis, Tenn. to take on the Lady Bucs Saturday with game one of a doubleheader to start at 1:00 p.m.

March 6, 2007

Lady Statesmen and Cotton Blossoms split GSC opener at University Field

CLEVELAND - The Delta State University Lady Statesmen (13-11, 1-1 GSC) split their Gulf South Conference opener with the Cotton Blossoms (14-9, 4-2 GSC) of the University of Arkansas at Monticello on Tuesday.

The Blossoms broke out the bats in a 10-2 win in game one. The Lady Statesmen answered with a 9-6 victory in the second game.

Delta State returns to action Thursday versus Christian Brothers at University Field. Game times are set for 5 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Complete statistics and wrap up will be available on Wednesday.

March 3, 2007

Lady Statesmen and Lady Wolves split Saturday doubleheader

CLEVELAND - The bats were on fire in the first game as Delta State won 9-6, but the Lady Statesmen came up just short in a comeback effort losing 3-2 to split a double-header with the University of West Georgia Saturday.

West Georgia (11-8) jumped out to a two-run lead with a home run by Celia Petty and an RBI double by Kim Weaver.

The Lady Statesmen (12-10) cut the lead to one with an RBI by Courtney Clark, then added three more in the third on a solo home run by Erica Harris and a two-run home run by Nicole Fontenot.

West Georgia added a run in the top of the fourth after an RBI double by Paige Hansen, but would never get any closer.

Randa Blenden (6-2) gave the Lady Statesmen another solid performance in the circle. The senior from Waco, Texas went 4.2 innings, giving up just three runs on four hits. Britni Adcox and Edie Oliver came on in relief. Adcox gave up two runs on one hit and Oliver gave up a run on one hit.

The Lady Statesmen put the game out of reach in the fourth inning, playing small ball for five runs with no extra base hits.

Chelsea Albertson (1-2) took the loss for West Georgia, giving up nine runs in six innings on 10 hits and six walks.

Kate Moreland started the second game for the Lady Statesmen. After giving up two runs through the first two innings, the freshman settled down before an error in the fifth allowed another run to score.

Chasey Niebrugge hit a home run in the bottom of the third, but the Lady Statesmen couldn’t muster up anymore offense until the seventh inning.

With two outs, the Lady Statesmen rallied to load the bases with Sam St. Hilaire coming to the plate. The junior from Turner, Maine hit a line drive over the shortstop. Britni Adcox scored, but Brittany Tillery was tagged out at home to end the game, 3-2.

Moreland (3-4) went seven innings, giving up just three runs on seven hits with three strikeouts.

Kate Thompson (6-2) earned the win for West Georgia, pitching seven innings while giving up just two runs on nine hits with eight strikeouts.

Niebrugge was a combined 2-for-5 on the day with three runs and an RBI. St. Hilaire was 5-for-7 with two RBIs and a run scored, and Harris added two runs and two RBIs, going 3-for-7 at the plate.

The Lady Statesmen will be in action Tuesday as they host the Cotton Blossoms of Arkansas-Monticello with a double header beginning at 5:00 p.m.

 

March 2, 2007

Lady Statesmen extinguish Blazers 5-3

CLEVELAND - The Delta State University Lady Statesmen beat the Blazers of Belhaven College 5-3 in their home opener Friday at University Field.

The Lady Statesmen grabbed an early lead in the bottom of the first when Chasey Niebrugge hit a lead-off home run.

The Lady Statesmen (11-9) added three more runs in the bottom of the second inning with a solo home run by Brittany Eikner and a two-run single by Sam St. Hilaire.

The Blazers (8-4) chipped away at the lead in the third inning after Meghan Pursell walked and scored on Keresa Steichen’s RBI-single.

Randa Blenden pitched another solid game, giving up just one run on five hits, but she ran into trouble in the fifth inning. Pursell and Erin McGowan each scored on RBI singles by Steichen and Tiffany Ansley.

Britni Adcox came in and got the final out of the inning and didn’t give up any hits as she closed out the came for her first save of the year.

Blenden (4-3) went 4.2 innings, giving up three runs of seven hits to record her fourth win of the season. Adcox went 2.1 innings giving up no hits and recorded a strikeout for the save.

Niebrugge was 1-for-4 on the day with one RBI and a run scored. St. Hilaire was 1-for-3 with two RBIs, and Eikner was 1-for-3 with and RBI and a run scored.

McGowan took the loss for the Blazers going 1.1 innings, giving up two runs on two hits.

The Lady Statesmen will in action again Saturday, March 3 with a double-header against the University of West Georgia beginning at 1:00 p.m.

 

February 25, 2007

Saturday's severe weather forces cancellation of Sunday's games at UAH Charger Chillout

HUNTSVILLE, Ala. - Due to severe weather in Alabama on Saturday, Sunday's remaining games at the UAH Charger Chillout were cancelled. The Lady Statesmen will host Belhaven Friday and West Georgia on Saturday at University Field. Tickets are on sale now.

February 24, 2007

Delta State extends win streak to four with pair of victories at the Chargers Chillout on Saturday

HUNTSVILLE, Ala. - The bats came alive in a big way for the Lady Statesmen Saturday at the Charger Chill Out in Decatur, Ala. as Delta State scored eight runs in each of their two games.

The Lady Statesmen improved their record to 10-9 and are above .500 for the first time all season with an 8-4 win over the University of Southern Indiana (2-5) and an 8-3 win over Northern Kentucky University (4-4).

Randa Blenden started solid in the circle against Southern Indiana, throwing three scoreless innings. In the fourth, however, USI scored two runs to tie the game before Edie Oliver came in to stop the bleeding. USI would then take the lead in the fifth, 3-2, when Britni Adcox came in to pitch.

In the bottom of the fifth, the Lady Statesmen would answer in a big way. With one out and Chasey Niebrugge on first, Lindsay Cordell hit a grounder to third. Kristin Eickholt tried to get the lead runner at second, but her throw was wide allowing both runs to reach slowly. A walk to Harris loaded the bases. After Courtney Clark popped out, Nicole Fontenot hit a two-out grand slam to give the Lady Statesmen a 6-3 lead.

Brittany Eikner then singled and Sam St. Hilaire hit a fly ball to left field that was dropped, allowing Eikner to score. Niebrugge added another insurance run in the bottom of the sixth inning when she roped a home run down the left field line.

Adcox earned win with 2.1 innings of work, giving up just one run on two hits and recorded four strikeouts.

The Lady Statesmen scored first against Northern Kentucky when St. Hilaire doubled with one out. Erica Harris grounded out to the pitcher to bring Courtney Clark with two outs. She singled to right field to drive in St. Hilaire, her ninth two-out RBI of the season.

NKU answered right back in the top of the second, but Delta State would get the run back in the bottom of the inning. Brittany Tillery reached on a fielder’s choice, then stole second and scored when the catcher’s throw went into centerfield.

The Lady Statesmen added two more in the bottom of fourth and four more in the fifth, capped off by Niebrugge’s second home run of the day, a two-run shot into a stiff wind.

Blenden came on in the fifth inning to record the first save of the season for the Lady Statesmen, throwing 2.2 innings giving up no runs on two hits with two strikeouts.

Niebrugge was 3-for-7 on the day with two home runs and three RBIs and three runs scored. Fontenot was 3-for-7 with four RBIs. Clark was 4-for-8 with an RBI and two assists. She threw a runner out trying to steal second and picked another off at second.

The Lady Statesmen finish out the Charger Chill Out Sunday with a game at 9:00 a.m. against Central Missouri State with a game against Kentucky Wesleyan to follow.

February 23, 2007

Lady Statesmen down #16 Barry Bucs 3-2 and slide past Truman State 5-4

HUNTSVILLE, Ala. - The Lady Statesmen softball team won their first two games at the Charger Chill Out in Decatur, Alabama in two completely different fashions Friday.

The only similarities between the 5-4 win against Truman State (0-2) and the 3-2 win over No. 16 Barry University (8-3) is that both games included late inning comebacks by the Lady Statesmen (8-9).

In the early game against Barry, Randa Blenden (4-2) continued the pitching clinic that she has been putting on over the past couple of weeks.

In what she described as an off-day, the senior gave up just two runs on eight hits as she went all seven innings. Shyla Rider provided all the offense the Buccaneers thought they would need when she drove in two runs with a double in the top of the fifth inning.

However, the Lady Statesmen battled and put themselves in position to take advantage of two costly Buccaneer mistakes.

In the bottom of the fifth, the Lady Statesmen pushed across their first run when Kate Moreland got caught between third and home on Chasey Niebrugge’s grounder on the left side of the infield. Brittany Tillery forced a throw to third that went into the outfield allowing her to score.

The Lady Statesmen would then score two more when Tillery and Lindsay Cordell, who came into the game as a pinch hitter, came around to score on an error by third baseman Maile Keeny attempting to throw Niebrugge out at first.

The throw went into foul territory along the right field fence allowing the winning run to come across in the bottom of the seventh inning.

In the second game of the day, the Lady Statesmen got the bats going to erase a three-run deficit against Truman State.

Sam St. Hilaire started the game in the circle and struggled early, giving up two runs on four hits and an error.

The Lady Statesmen cut the lead in half in the bottom of the third inning when Cordell drove in Tillery with a single to center field.

The Lady Bulldogs answered right back with two runs in the top of the fourth.

The Lady Statesmen again chipped away at the lead in the fifth inning when Jackie Stowe led off the inning with a pinch hit double and came around to score on Cordell’s two-out RBI single.

Delta State took the lead for good in the bottom of the sixth with four runs. Nicole Fontenot tied the game with a two-run blast well over the fence in left centerfield. Tillery provided the go-ahead run with a double that drove in Brittany Eikner and Cordell added an insurance run with a single that allowed Tillery to score.

Moreland (2-3), who came in to relive St. Hilaire in the fifth inning, threw 2.1 scoreless innings to get the win. St. Hilaire went 4.2 innings, giving up four runs on 9 hits.

Tillery was 4-for-6 in both games, scoring four runs and driving in one, while was 4-for-5 with three RBIs.

The Lady Statesmen will continue action at the Charger Chill Out Saturday with a game against No. 23 Southern Indiana at 11:00 a.m. and a game against Northern Kentucky to follow.

February 20, 2007

Delta State’s Randa Blenden named GSC West Pitcher of the Week

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. - Delta State University senior pitcher Randa Blenden has been named the Gulf South Conference West Division Softball Pitcher of the Week for the period ending Monday, Feb. 19.  It is the first honor for Blenden and the Lady Statesmen this season.

Blenden, a 6-foot-1 right-hander, earned the honor after posting one of the most memorable weeks in her career.  The Waco, Texas native posted a 2-1 mark on the week and pitched her first career no hitter.  The senior opened the slate with a solid seven inning performance against Missouri-St. Louis, picking up the win in a 5-1 victory. She allowed only one run while striking out five.

Her outing versus MSU was just the beginning.  On Saturday versus Augusta State, Blenden pitched her first career no hitter for the Lady Statesmen.  She was masterful, striking out nine batters while allowing only one base runner the entire game.

Blenden pitched 20 innings last week allowing only four earned runs with 18 strikeouts.  For the season, the right-hander is 3-2 with a team-leading 2.05 ERA. She will lead the Lady Statesmen into the Charger Chillout hosted by the University of Alabama at Huntsville Friday through Sunday.  Delta State is slated to play six games over the three day tournament. 

February 17, 2007

Lady Statesmen take 2-of-3 to wrap up UWG Lady Braves Invitational; Blenden tosses no-hitter

CARROLLTON, Ga. - Randa Blenden pitched a complete-game, no-hitter against Augusta State as the Lady Statesmen won two of their three games Saturday at the West Georgia Tournament.

The Lady Statesmen beat Augusta State 1-0, Southern Indiana 13-3, and lost to Florida Southern 6-2 to improve their record to 6-9.

Blenden went 1-1 on the day and pushed her record to 3-2. Against Augusta, Blenden threw nine strikeouts compared to no walks. Chasey Niebrugge provided the only offense the Lady Statesmen needed when she hit a solo home run in the bottom of the third inning.

In the second game, Niebrugge, Courtney Clark, and Nicole Fontenot each hit home runs. Clark’s was a grand slam while Niebrugge hit a three-run shot and Fontenot’s came with a runner on.

Kate Moreland (2-2) claimed the victory going 2.2 innings giving up two runs on seven hits.

Blenden started the third game of the day and went six innings before she ran out of gas. With the game tied at two in the top of the seventh, Florida Southern managed to get three more runs off of Blenden before Adcox came in to finish the game.

Blenden pitched 6.0 innings and gave up five runs, three earned, on 10 hits in the loss.

Megan Brown went seven innings, giving up two runs on two hits in the win for Florida Southern.

February 16, 2007

Lady Statesmen claim 5-0 win over Missouri-St. Louis; fall 10-0 to 5th-ranked SIU-Edwardsville

CARROLLTON, Ga. – The Lady Statesmen (4-8) of Delta State University claimed a split in the first round of the University of West Georgia Invitational with a 5-0 win over Missouri-St. Louis and a 10-0 loss to 5th-ranked SIU-Edwardsville.

The victory over MSU was the 300th in DSU head coach David Kuhn's career. Kuhn, the 2006 GSC Coach of the Year, has accomplished the feat in only nine years as head coach of the Lady Statesmen.

The UWG Invitational continues Saturday with the Lady Statesmen scheduled for three games. Complete stats, game stories and more will be available on Sunday.

February 11, 2007

Despite solid offensive numbers, Lady Statesmen split with Lynn at UWF Classic
By Daniel Hawthorne

PENSACOLA, Fla. - The Lady Statesmen softball team split a doubleheader with Lynn University Sunday on the last day of the University of West Florida Classic. Delta State followed up a 10-5 victory with a 12-1 loss that left them 2-4 on the weekend. The split brings their overall record to 3-7 on the season.
           
Game one featured a barrage of hitting by the Lady Statesmen that started in the third inning with three runs. They followed with five runs in the fifth and cleaned up with two more in the seventh for an 10-5 victory.

Senior Randa Blenden pitched a complete game, her first on the season for the win. Courtney Clark finished 3-of-4 with two singles, a triple, a stolen base and an RBI.
           
Game two featured a better Fighting Knights team who earned their first win of the season. Delainie Sloan scored the only run for the Lady Statesmen after a wild throw allowed her to cross the plate in the first.

Lynn responded with five runs in the third, three in the fifth and capped off with a grand slam by Kathleen Smith in the seventh.

Freshman Kate Moreland received the loss for Delta State going just three innings and allowing five runs.
           
The Lady Statesmen will host their first home game of the 2007 season Tuesday as they host Mississippi Valley State at University Field. The first pitch is scheduled for 6 p.m.

February 10, 2007

Lady Statesmen drop pair to Florida Tech at UWF Classic
By Travis Chamblee

PENSACOLA, Fla. - The Delta State University softball team lost both games of their double-header Saturday to the Panthers of Florida Tech on the second day of the Gulf South-Sunshine State Conference Crossover in Pensacola, Fla.  The Lady Statesmen (2-6) dropped the first game 2-1, and the Panthers (5-3) exploded in the second game to win 9-3.
               
Both starting pitchers gave outstanding performances in the first game, but were hurt by errors and mistakes.
               
The Panthers got on the board first in the first inning when Danielle Stanley reached first on an error. She then stole second and scored on Katie Naumoff’s single.
               
Florida Tech added a second and difference making run in the top of the sixth inning. Naumoff singled again and then ran around the bases with help from two wild pitches and a passed ball.
               
The Lady Statesmen tried to come back, posting their first run in the bottom of the sixth when Brittany Eikner reached on a fielder’s choice and then ran to second on a throw that caught Eri ca Harris at home. The throw from home went into the outfield and Eikner came around to score.
               
The Lady Statesmen got a runner into scoring position with two outs in the seventh, but couldn’t get a run across as the Panthers sealed the win.
               
Randa Blendon (0-1) went all seven innings in the loss. She gave up two runs, one earned, on five hits and struck out five. Sam St. Hilaire and Harris led the Lady Statesmen hitters, both going 3-for-3, all singles.
               
Amber West (1-1) went the distance for the Panthers. She gave up one unearned run on nine hits.
               
In the second game, the Panther offense dominated and Judith Husband (2-0) pitched a gem, holding the Lady Statesmen scoreless until the sixth inning.
               
The Panthers scored one run in each of the first five innings before the Lady Statesmen could muster up any offense.
               
In the top of the sixth, Courtney Clark broke out of her slump with a single. She scored on Harris’s double. Harris then came in on Eikner’s single to bring the Lady Statesmen to within three.
               
Then the Panther bats caught fire for four runs in the bottom of the sixth to push the game out of reach. The Lady Statesmen could only manage to push across one more run when Clark drove in Chasey Niebrugge.
               
Husband went six innings giving up two earned runs on seven hits in the win for the Panthers. Ashley Coleman went 2-for-5 with two run scored and an RBI, and Ida Danielson and Kristen Fettes were both 2-for-4 with two RBI.
               
Sam St. Hilaire (0-1) pitched three innings in the loss, giving up four runs, three earned, on five hits with a walk and a hit batsman.
               
The Lady Statesmen will be in action again Sunday, Feb. 11 to wrap up the tournament with a double-header against Lynn University. The first game is scheduled for 10:00 a.m. with the second to follow at 1:00 p.m.

 

February 9, 2007

DSU claims split with Rollins

PENSACOLA, Fla. - The Lady Statesmen split a double-header with the Tars of Rollins College Friday on the first day of the University of West Florida Classic.

Rollins (1-1) won the first game 3-0 behind a solid pitching performance from Nicole Anderson, and Delta State (2-4) finally found a spark of offense mid-way through the second game to win 4-3 in extra innings.

Anderson (1-1) pitched seven innings for the win in game one, giving up just five hits while striking out 15 Lady Statesmen.

Kate Moreland (1-2) had a shaky outing going just 3.1 innings in the loss. The freshman gave up two runs, one earned, on six hits and threw two wild pitches.

Devon Kontos started the scoring for the Tars in the third inning when she singled, advanced to second on a wild pitch and scored on Sherri Rabenold’s double. Rabenold then stole third and scored on Delanie Sloan’s errant throw.

Randa Blendon came on in relief in the middle of the fourth inning and pitched out of a bases loaded jam to keep the game close, but the Lady Statesmen couldn’t get string together any hits against the stellar Anderson. Blendon gave up just one run on one hit in 3.2 innings of work.

The second game seemed as if Rollins would gain another victory as they jumped out to a three run lead. The Tars scored one run in the first and two more in the third, knocking starting pitcher Sam St. Hilaire out of the game after just 2.1 innings, but Britni Adcox came in and shut down the Rollins offense.

The Lady Statesmen battled back to tie the game in the top of the fourth. With one out, Brittany Tillery singled, and with two outs, Jackie Stowe was hit by a pitch to spark the Lady Statesmen’s rally. Lindsay Cordell then drew a walk bringing up Chasey Niebrugge with the bases loaded and she delivered. Niebrugge blasted an RBI single that drove in Tillery and Stowe. Sam St. Hilaire then single to drive in Cordell to tie the game, but Niebrugge was tagged out to end the inning.

Adcox held the Tars scoreless for the remainder of the game and the Lady Statesmen were able to score the winning run in the top of the ninth when Tillery, who was on second based on a tiebreak rule, stole third and scored on an error by catcher Kontos.

The game would not end without another half inning of intense drama. The Tars were able to load the bases before Adcox struck out Stacy Sanders to end the game.

St. Hilaire threw 2.1 innings giving up three earned runs on six hits, and Adcox (1-1) threw 6.2 innings giving up just two hits and struck out eight for the win.

St. Hilaire was 4-for-5 on the day with an RBI, and Cordell was 2-for-3 in game two with a run scored.

The Lady Statesmen will be in action again Saturday in a double-header against Florida Tech with the first game starting at 4:00 p.m.

February 4, 2007

Lady Statesmen split final two games at Valdosta State Lady Blazers Invitational

VALDOSTA , Ga. – The Delta State University softball team defeated Saint Leo 5-4, and dropped a 7-2 decision to 2 nd-ranked Florida Southern on the final day of the Valdosta State University Lady Blazers Invitational Sunday. The Lady Statesmen finished the two-day tournament 1-3.

The 2 nd-ranked Florida Southern Moccasins (2-0) downed the Lady Statesmen 7-2 in the first game on Sunday. FSC erupted for five runs in the second inning to take an insurmountable lead over Delta State (0-3). The Moccasins added single runs in the fourth and fifth innings to take a 7-0 lead.

The Lady Statesmen scratched the board for two runs in the sixth on Courtney Clark’s two-run home run, but it wasn’t enough as FSC slammed the door on Delta State in the seventh.

Heidi Schumacher (2-0) earned the win for FSC after pitching four innings allowing only one hit. Ashley Atun pitched three innings allowing two runs on five hits to earn the save.

DSU’s Edie Oliver (0-1) took the loss. The freshman left-hander pitched 1.1 innings allowing five earned runs on two hits with four walks and three strikeouts. Randa Blenden (2.2) and Britni Adcox (3.0) also pitched in relief.

Game two versus Saint Leo (2-1) proved to be more fruitful for the Lady Statesmen, as Delta State (1-3) earned a 5-4 win over the Lady Lions. Kate Moreland (1-1), a 5-foot-4 freshman from Starkville, recorded her first career victory after pitching seven innings on Sunday. Moreland allowed four earned runs on five hits with four walks and three strikeouts in the win.

The Lady Statesmen jumped out to a 1-0 lead in the bottom of the first on Erica Harris’ RBI single. Christina Van Tassell’s solo hone run in the fourth inning tied the game at 1-1 each for Saint Leo.

The Lady Statesmen would explode for four runs in the bottom of the fifth on a two-RBI double by Erica Harris and a two-run home run by Amber Hass (1). Saint Leo would make it a 5-4 game in the sixth with three runs of their own, but Moreland would stop the run by SLU to seal the win for DSU.

Delta State ’s Erica Harris finished the day 2-for-3 with a double, and three RBI. Amber Hass was 1-for-3 with a run scored and two RBI.

Saint Leo’s Kiki VonHolt (0-2) took the loss. VonHolt pitched five innings allowing five earned runs on seven hits.

The Lady Statesmen will return to action next weekend at the University of West Florida Lady Argonauts Classic in Pensacola, Fla. Delta State is slated to face West Florida, Florida Tech and Lynn University in the three day tournament.

February 3, 2007

Lady Statesmen drop two games at Valdosta State Lady Blazer Invitational

VALDOSTA , Ga. – The Delta State University softball team dropped its first two games of the 2007 season with a 5-4 loss to Saint Leo and a 6-0 loss to Florida Southern at the fourth annual Valdosta State Lady Blazer Invitational. The losses drop the Lady Statesmen to 0-2 on the season, while Saint Leo improved to 1-0 and Florida Southern climbed to 1-1.

“We played well at times today and at other we struggled to get the big hit,” said DSU head coach David Kuhn. “Saint Leo and Florida Southern are both good clubs and we’ll have our chance against them Sunday.”

In the first game of the tournament, the Lady Statesmen squared off with the Lady Lions of Saint Leo. Delta State jumped out to a 2-0 lead in the fourth inning on an RBI single by Lindsay Cordell. Saint Leo cut the lead to 2-1 in the fifth inning on Ally Maddox’s solo home run to left field.

In the sixth, the Lady Lions erupted for four runs to take a 5-2 lead. Maddox connected on her second home run of the day in the inning, a 215-foot blast to right. Ashley Urbanik added a two RBI double as well.

The Lady Statesmen would cut the lead to 5-4 in the bottom of the seventh, but Saint Leo’s Urbanik closed the door for the win.

Urbanik (1-0) pitched seven innings allowing four runs on 11 hits with one walk and eight strikeouts. Britni Adcox (0-1) was saddled with the loss in relief. Adox pitched two innings in relief of Sam St. Hilaire. Adcox allowed three runs on three hits with three strikeouts. St. Hilaire worked five innings allowing two runs on four hits with four strikeouts.

Chasey Niebrugge went 3-for-4 at the plate to lead the Lady Statesmen. Britni Adcox and Brittany Tillery both went 2-for-4 with a run scored and RBI.

In game two, the Lady Moccasins of Florida Southern College proved to be too much for the Lady Statesmen in a 6-0 loss. Heidi Schumacher (1-0) pitched six innings of two-hit shutout softball to earn the win. Amanda Atun pitched one inning of shutout relief. Kate Moreland (0-1) pitched 5.1 innings in the loss allowing six runs on eight hits with one strikeout.

Sarah Kohlbrenner went 3-for-3 with a double and RBI to lead FSC. Courtney Clark and Erica Harris had one hit each for the Lady Statesmen.

The Lady Statesmen are back in action Sunday at the Lady Blazer Invitational. DSU faces Florida Southern at 9 a.m. followed by Saint Leo at 11 a.m.

 

February 1, 2007

Lady Statesmen gearing up for season opener at Valdosta State Lady Blazer Invitational

CLEVELAND - The Lady Statesmen softball team will begin its season this weekend, Feb. 3-4, in Valdosta, Ga. at the Valdosta State University Lady Blazer Invitational.

The Lady Statesmen will play two games each against the Lions of Saint Leo University and the Moccasins of Florida Southern College.

Game times for Saturday are set for 1:00 p.m. against Saint Leo and 3 p.m. versus Florida Southern. The Lady Statesmen face Florida Southern at 9:00 a.m. on Sunday with the second game against Saint Leo following at 11:00 a.m.

The Lady Statesmen lost six seniors off the 2006 team, but the pieces they have returning are substantial. Four All-GSC selections return with Amber Hass, Sam St. Hilaire, Randa Blendon and Britni Adcox leading the way David Kuhn's Lady Statesmen.

The Lady Statesmen face two of the nation's top teams in Florida Southern and Saint Leo. Delta State dropped three one run games to FSC last season, and the Lady Statesmen are poised to end the draught versus the Florida school.

January 30, 2007

LADY STATESMEN PICKED TO REPEAT AS GSC WEST CHAMPS; FINISH SECOND IN CHAMPIONSHIP POLL

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. - The Delta State University Lady Statesmen softball team was picked as the preseason favorite to win the West Division in the Gulf South Conference coaches’ poll released Tuesday, Jan. 30.  The Lady Statesmen received four of six possible first place votes from coaches in the West Division.  DSU finished 49-23 last season en route to their second-straight GSC West title. 

The Lady Statesmen were picked to finish second in the race for the GSC Championship behind defending champion Alabama-Huntsville. The Lady Chargers were selected as the favorite to win the East division after their sixth conference tournament championship in 2006.

Arkansas-Monticello was picked to finish second to Delta State in the West followed by Southern Arkansas, Henderson State and Ouachita Baptist, Arkansas Tech, and Christian Brothers. 

Delta State senior outfielder Amber Hass was named to the Preseason All-GSC team as well.  Hass, a 5-foot-8 right fielder from Hamilton, batted .354 with 12 doubles, 12 home runs and 63 RBI.  She garnered First Team All-GSC in 2006, and Second Team All-South Region by the National Fastpitch Coaches Association. 

A trio of newcomers was also named as “Top Newcomers” for 2007.  Chasey Niebrugge, a shortstop from Bonita Springs, Fla.; Erica Harris, a 5-foot-9 outfielder from Houston, Texas; and Jackie Stowe, a 5-foot-9 second baseman from Hazelhurst, were selected. 

The Lady Statesmen will open the 2007 season on February 3 at the Lady Blazers Invitational hosted by Valdosta State University.  

 

November 16, 2006

LADY STATESMEN SOFTBALL ADDS MILLINGTON’S EMILY HEARN

CLEVELAND – Delta State University head softball coach David Kuhn announced the addition of Emily Hearn to the 2006-07 softball recruiting class on Thursday.  Hearn is a senior at Millington Central High School in Millington, Tenn.
“Hearn is a great hitter with outstanding power. She is also a great student-athlete and fits nicely into the DSU mold,” Kuhn said.

The 5-foot-7 first baseman/outfielder was the leading hitter at Millington Central in both her junior (.526) and sophomore (.485) seasons. Hearn was named to the Commercial Appeal’s All-Metro team in her first three seasons, as well as first team All-District for the past two seasons, and Tennessee All-State in her junior year. 

The power-hitting Hearn has 62 extra base hits including 20 home runs and 135 RBIs in three seasons.  She has also lettered in varsity soccer the past three seasons.  Entering her senior season, Hearn was nominated for the Wendy’s High School Heisman Award.     

Hearn is also an excellent student.  Through her first three years at MCHS, she has compiled a 3.4 GPA and she is a member of the National Honor Society and Beta Club.  Hearn has been active in student government at MCHS and this year she was elected Student Council President. 

Hearn is the daughter of former Delta State baseball standout Ricky Hearn, who played under Dave “Boo” Ferriss from 1978-81.  Hearn was inducted into the Delta State Sports Hall of Fame last May.

 

November 13, 2006

DUNPHY SIGNS ON DOTTED LINE WITH LADY STATESMEN

CLEVELAND – Delta State University head softball coach David Kuhn announced the signing of Nicole Dunphy on Monday.  Dunphy is the first student-athlete to sign with the Lady Statesmen this season.
           
“Nicole is an exceptional student-athlete with unlimited potential,” said Kuhn.  “Her numbers speak for themselves and I believe she has the determination to be one of the best pitchers we have ever had here at Delta State University.”
           
Nicole Dunphy, a 5-foot-10 pitcher from Rose Hill, Kan., has solidified herself as one of the top pitchers in the Midwest.  In three seasons at Rose Hill High School, Dunphy has posted a 31-7 record with a miniscule 1.15 ERA.  In 266.2 career innings pitched she has struck out 357 batters. 
           
Last season, Dunphy led RHHS to an 18-5 overall record, while posting a personal mark of 11-3 with 1.12 ERA.  In 106 innings pitched, she allowed just 56 hits with 147 strikeouts.    
           
The early signing period for softball extends through November 15 and Delta State will continue to release signings as they are made available. 

August 29, 2006

DELTA STATE'S ALYSE HASTY NAMED REGION SCHOLAR-ATHLETE OF THE YEAR

WALNUT CREEK, Calif. – Delta State University softball player Alyse Hasty was named the South Region’s Scholar-Athlete of the Year on Tuesday by the Division II Conference Commissioners Association.

Hasty will now be eligible for Female Scholar-Athlete of the Year when it is selected in early September. The other regional selections include: Rebecca Brezovec (Wingate); Lindsey Dietz (Minnesota-Duluth); Kristin Anderson ( Central Missouri State); Amanda Newtown (Drury); Katrina Holmberg (Cal State Poly., Pomona); Jenny Mongeau (Assumption); and Brenna Clark (Pfeiffer).

The St. Louis, Mo., native has continued to rack up the awards following the completion of her career in May. Hasty has garnered NFCA All-American, Gulf South Conference Player of the Year and the GSC Commissioner’s Trophy since the close of the season.

She has also excelled off the field. Hasty graduated in May with a 3.6 GPA in Political Science (Pre-Law). The three-time NFCA Scholar Athlete was also named to the CoSIDA Academic All-Region Team.

August 29, 2006

LADY STATESMEN SOFTBALL CALLING ALL ALUMNI FOR HOMECOMING WEEKEND

CLEVELAND - The biannual Lady Statesmen Alumni Softball game will be held at 7 p.m. on October 20, 2006 as part of Homecoming weekend at DSU. The Statesmen football team will face the University of North Alabama on Saturday, October 21. Game time is slated for 4 p.m. and all softball alumni will receive two complimentary tickets to attend the game. Tickets will be handed out after the softball activities have concluded on Friday.

This biannual event proves to be a fun and exciting time for Delta State Alumni each year. All those interested in brushing off those uniforms from years past have another opportunity to continue the legacy and tradition of Lady Statesmen softball and enjoy a fun weekend filled with fun football and festivities.

If you have not yet made reservations, please contact coach David Kuhn or the Delta State softball office at (662) 846-4300 or email us at athletics@deltastate.edu today!

 

JUNE 28, 2006

DELTA STATE ’S ALYSE HASTY CAPTURES PRESTIGIOUS COMMISSIONER’S TROPHY  

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – Alyse Hasty became just the third Delta State University Lady Statesman in school history to capture the prestigious Gulf South Conference Commissioner’s Trophy on Thursday at the annual GSC Awards Banquet held at the Hilton Garden Inn in Pensacola Beach, Fla. Hasty is the first DSU honoree since the school swept men’s and women’s honors in 1991-92 (Brad Teague and Amy Carroll). The St. Louis, Missouri native is Delta State's ninth overall Commissioner’s Trophy winner and third women’s honoree. Hasty is also a two-time GSC “Top Ten” standout after claiming back-to-back awards and is the third Softball player in a row.

“I am truly overwhelmed at the moment,” said Hasty. “This is a tremendous honor for me and my family. I would like to thank Commissioner Salant, the GSC, coach David Kuhn, my teammates and all of DSU for supporting me over the last four years.” Hasty concluded, “DSU is such a special place and it is such an honor to receive this award.”

Alyse Hasty made a name for herself as one of the best softball players to ever don a Delta State uniform, and given her overall contributions to her team, her school and the many communities she touched, perhaps the greatest. She not only led the Lady Statesmen to their second GSC Championship Game since 1992, but becomes the fourth consecutive DSU softball player to earn Top Ten honors.

During the 2006 season, Hasty set conference records for stolen bases in a season and career. She also led the league in runs, hits and total bases en route to her second straight GSC West Division Player of the Year Award and All-GSC First Team. The centerfielder is also the first Lady Statesman named NFCA First Team All-American in the program’s history. Her other honors include: NFCA All-South Region First Team, Delta State Most Valuable Player and the Delta State Charles S. Kerg Senior Athlete of the Year.

Academically, the Political Science major earned National Fastpitch Coaches Association Academic All-American Scholar Athlete, as well as a place on the GSC All-Academic Team and the GSC Honor Roll. She also made the CoSIDA Academic All-Region Team, DSU President’s List and the Pi Gamma Mu National Social Science Honor Society.

Off-the field, Hasty was the 2005-06 President of the Student Athlete Advisory Committee, the coordinator of the DSU Chapter of the James Madison Pre-Law Society, and the President of the Madison Center Society (a student political science organization at Delta State). She chaired the Delta State University Softball K’s for Cancer Fundraiser.

“During my career at Delta State University, I have never seen a young lady with such presence on and off the field,” said DSU head coach David Kuhn. “Alyse has everything she needs to succeed in life.” Kuhn added, “Her leadership has helped build this program into a championship contender and I know we are a much stronger group because of her leadership.”

In the community, Hasty mentored in the Cleveland Youth Program for four years. During the summers of 2004 and 2005, Missouri Senator Todd Akin selected her as on of his interns. The senior helped build homes in Cleveland, MS and St. Louis, MO for Habitat for Humanity and fundraised for the Veteran’s Memorial in St. Louis. At the Missouri State Department of Corrections, Hasty volunteered, assisting MSSDC specialists for criminal cases involving insanity pleas. The St. Louis Circle of Concern also grabbed some of her time; she distributed personal items to the homeless, and was a counselor for the Rosedale Project-a grant funded co-educational group working with underprivileged youth from Rosedale, MS.

“Alyse is the very definition of the student-athlete here at Delta State University, “said DSU Athletic Director Dr. Brad Teague. “Her work on the field speaks for itself, but her leadership with the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee and the countless community-service projects she is involved with speak to her leadership abilities and character.” Teague concluded, “Alyse will be successful in any endeavor she chooses and I believe she is the epitome of what this award stands for-athletic, academic, individual and team success.”

One of the most prestigious awards in Division II, and the most significant individual honor in the Gulf South Conference, the Commissioner's Trophy is awarded annually to the student-athlete who best combines outstanding performance on the field or court and high academic achievement in the classroom with significant community service and extracurricular activities.

The Trophy was first awarded in 1975, honoring the outstanding male student-athlete in the conference. In 1983, when the Conference officially began conducting women’s championships, the GSC began honoring its outstanding female student-athlete as well. This list includes: an Olympian (Larry Myricks), a Division II Women's Basketball Player of the Year (Crystal Hardy) and two Harlon Hill Trophy winners (Chris Hatcher and Dusty Bonner).

Past DSU Commissioner’s Trophy recipients:
1976 – Billy Hood, Football
1977 – Bryan Rodgers, Baseball
1983 – Chris Burgess, Baseball
1985 – Scott Butler, Football
1988 – Scott Nagy, Men’s Basketball
1990 – Crystal Hardy, Women’s Basketball
1992 – Brad Teague, Baseball
1992 - Amy Carroll, Women’s Basketball
2006 – Alyse Hasty, Softball

May 17, 2006

DELTA STATE’S HASTY NAMED FIRST TEAM
NFCA ALL-AMERICAN

CLEVELAND – Delta State University senior centerfielder Alyse Hasty is no stranger to firsts. The St. Louis, Mo. native ranks first in virtually every statistical category in Lady Statesmen softball history. On Wednesday, Hasty became the first Lady Statesmen in the program’s history to garner All-American honors when she was named a First Team All-American by the National Fastpitch Coaches Association. The honor caps a brilliant career for one of Delta State’s all-time greats.

“This is honor is so difficult to receive and for Alyse to get it in her senior year means the world to me and this team,” said DSU head coach David Kuhn. “Alyse is one of the greatest players to have ever graced our field and she is so deserving of everything that comes her way.”

Hasty led the Lady Statesmen to a school record 49 wins this season and a second-consecutive GSC West Division title. The power-hitting centerfielder broke the school and GSC records for single-season stolen bases (59) and career-stolen bases (135) along the way.

Her numbers this season were simply phenomenal! In 72 games, Hasty batted .406 with 17 doubles, five triples, 18 home runs and 65 RBI. She also swiped an amazing 59 bases in 66 attempts. The stolen base, home run and RBI totals are also DSU single-season records.

The All-American selection comes on the heels of Hasty being named the GSC West Player of the Year for a second straight year. Last week, she was named to the NFCA All-Region First Team and CoSIDA Academic All-Region First Team. Earlier this month Hasty was awarded the Charles S. Kerg Senior Athlete of the Year Award, presented annually to Delta State University’s top male and female student-athlete.

 

May 16, 2006

THREE LADY STATESMEN GARNER NFCA ALL-REGION HONORS

CLEVELAND – After guiding the Delta State University Lady Statesmen (49-23) to one of the most successful seasons in the programs history, Alyse Hasty, Bre Myers and Amber Hass were named to the National Fastpitch Coaches Association All-Region Teamon Monday.

“These young ladies deserve every honor they receive,” said DSU head coach David Kuhn. “All three worked hard this season and did everything they could to help our team reach its goals.”

The All-Region selection is especially exciting for senior centerfielder Alyse Hasty. Hasty, recently named the Gulf South Conference West Division Player of the Year for a second consecutive season, was named to the NFCA First Team All-Region squad after her record setting senior season. The St. Louis, Mo. native batted .422 with 18 home runs and 65 RBI. She also swiped a GSC single season record 59 bases. Hasty also topped the GSC career stolen base mark with 135.

Bre Myers and Amber Hass were both NFCA Second Team All-Region selections. Myers capped her senior season for a second straight year as a member of the NFCA All-Region squad. The Dunnellon, Fla. native has patrolled second base for Kuhn and the Lady Statesmen the past two years. This season Myers batted .325 with 10 home runs and 50 RBI.

Hass, a transfer from Northeast Miss. Community College, burst onto the GSC scene this season and finished amongst the league leaders in home runs (12), average (.354) and RBI (63).

For more information on the Lady Statesmen softball program, please contact the DSU Athletic Department at (662) 846-4300 or log on to www.gostatesmen.com.

May 16, 2006

LADY STATESMEN HAND OUT SEASONAL AWARDS

CLEVELAND – The Delta State University Lady Statesmen recently concluded their season and coach David Kuhn announced the team’s individual award winners from the annual Spring Sports Banquet. In all five Lady Statesmen received honors on Sunday night.

“I wasn’t prepared to hand out our awards the night of the Spring Sports Banquet,” said Kuhn. “I wanted to wait until the season was over and that’s what we did.”

Senior centerfielder Alyse Hasty was the big winner on the night. In addition to the Charles S. Kerg Award, presented annually to Delta State’s top male and female student athlete, Hasty took home Most Valuable Player, Highest Batting Average and Most RBI awards.

Lindsay Cordell, a junior from Collierville, Tenn., received the Most Improved Award. Sophomore pitcher Britni Adcox, a Covington, La. native, was named the Most Valuable Pitcher.

Kuhn held the final two awards for two special departing seniors. Jenna Smart, a senior pitcher from Morris, Ill., received the Sportsmanship Award and Katie Wright, a senior outfielder from Maypearl, Texas, received the Lady Statesmen Award.

The Lady Statesmen finished the season 49-23 and captured their second-consecutive Gulf South Conference West Division title along the way.

 

May 10, 2006

LADY STATESMEN PLACE EIGHT ON ALL CONFERENCE SOFTBALL TEAM  

BIRMINGHAM , ALA. – For a second consecutive year the Delta State University Lady Statesmen softball team dominated the competition in the West Division of the Gulf South Conference and on Tuesday the GSC recognized their efforts placing eight players on the All-GSC First or Second Team. It is the second straight year the Lady Statesmen have controlled the All-GSC West Division Team.

Senior centerfielder Alyse Hasty, pitcured at left, became only the second player in GSC history and the first from DSU to claim the GSC West Player of the Year Award for a second straight year. The St. Louis, Mo. native led the league in runs scored (77), hits (101), total bases (182), stolen bases (59). She set a new career-record for stolen bases with 135 and she also set a new single-season mark for swipes with 59. This is the third consecutive year that Hasty has made the All-GSC squad.

Joining Hasty on the All-GSC First Team are Ashlee Nodhturft, Amber Hass and Meredith Coleman. For Ashlee Nodhturft it’s the second consecutive year to be named to the First Team. The senior shortstop from Ocean Springs batted .354 with 15 home runs, a school-record 23 doubles and an amazing 52 RBI. She also finished 10-for-10 in stolen base attempts and she recorded 200 assists on the season.

Meredith Coleman, a senior from Schlater, batted .290 with eight home runs and 35 RBI. This is Coleman’s fourth All-GSC selection and her third First Team honor in a row. Coleman, pictured at left, swiped a personal best 21 bases in 26 attempts this season as well. The senior first baseman is the third player in the program’s history to make the All-GSC team all four years at Delta State University.

Amber Hass , a junior from Hamilton, batted .354 with 12 home runs and 63 RBI. The right fielder for the Lady Statesmen burst on the GSC scene this season and finished amongst the league leaders in home runs, average and RBI.

The Lady Statesmen also placed four players on the All-GSC Second Team. Bre Myers, Britni Adcox, Sam St. Hilaire and Randa Blenden all made the cut.

Bre Myers made the All-GSC squad for a second year in a row after batting .325 with 10 home runs and 50 RBI. The Dunnellon, Fla. native was named to the First Team in 2005. Sam St. Hillaire, a sophomore pitcher/outfielder, is also an All-GSC recipient for a second straight year. The sophomore from Turner, Maine finished the season 11-7 with seven complete games and a 3.44 ERA.

Britni Adcox and Randa Blenden, a pair of first time All-GSC team members, round out the list for the Lady Statesmen. Adcox, a sophomore from Covington, La., recorded a 17-5 mark with a 2.75 ERA. She also recorded three saves and held opposing batters to a measly .243 batting average. Blenden, a junior from Waco, Texas, tallied a 13-5 mark to go along with a 2.90 ERA. The right-hander also recorded an impressive 89 strikeouts.

For a second straight year the coaches in the GSC voted David Kuhn the GSC Coach of the Year. The DSU grad and Greenville native led the Lady Statesmen to a school-record 49-23 mark and a second consecutive GSC West Division crown. Under Kuhn leadership the Lady Statesmen advanced to the GSC Championship game before falling to UA-Huntsville.

For more information on the Lady Statesmen softball team, please contact the DSU Athletic Department at (662) 846-4300. To access the complete All-Gulf South Conference Team, please click here.

 

May 8, 2006

MGCCC STANDOUT EMILY LEBLANC SIGNS WITH LADY STATESMEN

CLEVELAND – Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College standout third baseman Emily LeBlanc signed with coach David Kuhn and the Delta State University Lady Statesmen softball program on Monday. LeBlanc becomes the fifth player to sign with DSU during the spring signing period.

“Emily is an outstanding player with a tremendous amount of untapped potential,” said Kuhn. “During her career at MGCCC, Emily excelled at the plate and I believe she will be able to do the same here at DSU.”

LeBlanc has spent the past two seasons at Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College anchoring third base for coach Kenneth Long. The Bourg, La. native was a two-time All-State and All-Region selection for the Lady Bulldogs.

During her career at MGCCC, LeBlanc helped guide the Lady Bulldogs to the South State Championship in 2005 and a runner-up finish in 2006. This season the Lady Bulldogs finished fourth overall in the state tournament.

LeBlanc finished the season with a .406 average and eight home runs. She paced MGCCC with 47 hits, six doubles and two triples.

Prior to Gulf Coast, LeBlanc was a two-time All-State selection for coach Millie Guidry at South Terrebonne High School in Bourg, La.

LeBlanc plans on majoring in English education at Delta State University. She is the daughter of Charles and Lisa LeBlanc.

May 6, 2006

LADY STATESMEN FALL 9-6 TO CHARGERS IN GSC SOFTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP

SOUTHAVEN – The University of Alabama Chargers (49-22) wrapped up a record sixth Gulf South Conference Championship with a 9-6 victory over the Delta State University Lady Statesmen (49-23) on Sunday at the Greenbrook Softball Complex.

The Chargers jumped out to an early 6-0 lead with three runs scored in each of the first two innings. The Lady Statesmen would erupt for four runs in the top of third to cut the UAH lead to 6-4. Alabama-Huntsville extended the lead with two runs in the third to take an 8-4 lead. UAH added a single run in the fourth while the Lady Statesmen plated two more runs in the fifth to make the final 9-6.

Sage Woodham (23-5) recorded the win, while Britni Adcox suffered the loss for the Lady Statesmen. Woodham pitched 5.1 innings allowing six runs on four hits with five strikeouts. Adcox pitched one inning allowing five runs on four hits. Sam St. Hilaire and Randa Blenden pitched in relief. Jenny Hess pitched 1.2 innings with one strikeout to record her NCAA-leading eleventh save.

Alyse Hasty paced the Lady Statesmen at the plate. The senior from St. Louis, Mo. went 2-for-4 with one run scored and four RBI. Four players for UAH recorded at least two hits.

The Lady Statesmen were well represented on the All-Tournament team. Alyse Hasty, Britni Adcox, Bre Myers and Amber Hass were all named to the All-GSC Tournament Team.

Delta State awaits the call for the NCAA Division II Softball Tournament. The tournament field will be announced later Sunday.

May 7 , 2006

LADY STATESMEN RIDE BAT OF HASTY INTO FINAL

SOUTHAVEN - Alyse Hasty’s grand slam in the top of the seventh inning against the Henderson State Lady Reddies proved to be just what the doctor ordered as the Lady Statesmen (48-22) advanced to the championship round of the Gulf South Conference Tournament against the University of Alabama-Huntsville.

Down 4-2, the senior centerfielder stepped to the plate and drove the waist high fastball over the centerfield fence to give the Lady Statesmen the lead for the first time since the top of the first inning.

The Lady Statesmen jumped out to an early 1-0 lead in the top of the first only to see the Lady Reddies score two runs in the bottom of the inning. Henderson State would add two more runs in the bottom of the third. That would be all the scoring for either team until the top of the seventh when the Lady Statesmen bats came alive to take the lead.

Britni Adcox (17-5) recorded the win while Lamb (30-14) took the loss. Adcox pitched 3.2 innings allowing two hits with two walks while recording five strikeout. Lamb threw the complete game for Henderson giving up six runs on five hits with three walks and five strikouts.

Alyse Hasty provided nearly all the offense Delta State would need while going 1-for-4 with four RBI. Merideth Coleman was the only Lady Statesmen with more than one hit as she went 2-for-2 with one run scored. Ashley Nodhturft and Bre Myers finished with one hit and one RBI apiece. Lewis led the Lady Reddies with two hits and all four RBI.

 

 

May 6, 2006

Lady Statesmen fall to Alabama-Huntsville in winners’ bracket final

SOUTHAVEN - The Delta State University Lady Statesmen (48-22) fell 7-4 to Alabama- Huntsville (47-15) Saturday in the winners’ bracket final of the Gulf South Conference Softball Tournament at Greenbrook Softball Complex.

The story of the day was big time hitting for both teams as Alabama-Huntsville jumped on the Lady Statesmen 4-0 in the first inning on a grand slam by Kellie Corder. The lead allowed the Lady Chargers some wiggle room for the rest of the afternoon. The Lady Statesmen would get as close as 4-3 in the fifth only to give up two runs in the seventh to make the final 7-4.

Kellie Corder was the offensive hero for UAH. The junior hit a grand slam over the left field wall in the first inning to give the Lady Chargers a 4-0 lead. DSU starter Sam St. Hilaire would be relieved after recording one out. She would take the loss to fall to 11-7.

Britni Adcox would come in and stop the bleeding as she forced UAH to hit into a double play to end the top the first inning rally. Adcox pitched 5.2 innings allowing only two hits and one earned run.

The Lady Statesmen were led at the plate by seniors Alyse Hasty and Meredith Coleman. Hasty went thee for four with one RBI while Coleman went two for three. Amber Hass also helped the Lady Statesmen with two runs batted in.

Sage Woodham picked up the win to boost her record to 22-5 as she pitched 5.2 innings allowing three earned runs while allowing eleven hits. Jenny Hess pitched 1.1 innings to pick up her GSC and NCAA leading tenth save.

DSU finished the game with four runs on thirteen hits and three errors while UAH finished the game with seven runs on only six hits and two errors.

The Lady Statesmen will play tomorrow at 11.00 am against a yet to be determined opponent. DSU would need to win that contest to advance to the championship game for a rematch with UAH. Airtime will be 10:45 on the Statesmen Sports Network.

 

May 5, 2006

LADY STATESMEN ADVANCE TO WINNER’S BRACKET FINAL WITH 11-1 THRASHING OF LADY REDDIES

SOUTHAVEN – The Delta State University Lady Statesmen (48-21) advanced to the winner’s bracket final with an 11-1 thrashing of Henderson State University (38-17) at the Gulf South Conference Softball Tournament played at the Greenbrook Softball Complex. DSU will now face the University of Alabama-Huntsville (46-15) at 2 p.m.

The game started off slowly for both clubs as the Lady Statesmen failed to score in the first. In the bottom of the first, HSU failed to plate a run with the bases loaded as Randa Blenden struck out Monica Campbell to end the inning. The strikeout seemed to fuel the Lady Statesmen offensively.

In the second, DSU plated a run on Meredith Coleman’s eighth home run of the year over the left field wall. The Lady Statesmen would go up 3-0 in the on a two-RBI single by Katie Wright. DSU would take a 7-0 lead with four runs in the fourth before plating one run in the fifth and three runs in the sixth.

Hsu would score their lone run in the fifth on Janiel Pati’s RBI single to left.

Randa Blenden (13-5) earned the win. The junior from Waco, Texas pitched five innings allowing one run on three hits with three walks and two strikeouts. Britni Adcox pitched the sixth inning with one strikeout. HSU’s Anna Lamb (27-13) was saddled with the loss. Lamb worked 5.1 innings allowing 11 runs on 15 hits with two walks and three strikeouts.

Katie Wright went 3-for-4 with a double and three RBI. Bre Myers and Amber Hass recorded three hits each.

The Lady Statesmen scored 11 runs off of 16 hits with no errors, while the Lady Reddies finished with one run on three hits with three errors.

The Lady Statesmen will face the Lady Chargers at 2 p.m. in the winner’s bracket final of the Gulf South Conference Tournament Saturday at Greenbrook Softball Complex in Southaven. The game will be broadcast on the Statesmen Sports Network beginning at 1:45 p.m. For more information, please contact the GSC Office (205) 991-9880 or log on to www.gulfsouthconference.org.

LADY STATESMEN ADVANCE TO SECOND ROUND WITH 2-1 WIN OVER UWG

SOUTHAVEN – The Delta State University Lady Statesmen (47-21) advanced to the second round of the Gulf South Conference Softball Tournament with a 2-1 victory over the University of West Georgia Lady Braves (39-25) at the Greenbrook Softball Complex. DSU will face Henderson State in the quarterfinals at 6:30 p.m.

DSU took a 1-0 lead in the bottom of the first on Ashlee Nodhturft’s solo home run (15) over the left field wall. The score would stay the same until the sixth inning when UWG tied the game on an RBI single by Jenny Wise.

Tied 1-1 heading into the bottom of the sixth, DSU’s Amber Hass drilled an RBI double to right center scoring Brittany Tillery to give the Lady Statesmen the lead for good 2-1.

Sam St. Hilaire (11-6) recorded the win after pitching 6.2 innings. The sophomore allowed five hits and one run with six strikeouts. Jenna Smart retired the final batter for UWG to earn her fifth save. UWG’s Kacie Crider (19-12) took the loss. Crider worked six innings allowing two runs on seven hits with a walk and three strikeouts.

Ashlee Nodhturft went 2-for-3 with a home run (15), while Alyse Hasty recorded a pair of singles. Amber Hass finished 1-for-3 with a double and an RBI. Jessie Wise went 2-for-3 with an RBI for West Georgia.

The Lady Statesmen will face the Lady Reddies at 6:30 p.m. in the quarterfinal round of the Gulf South Conference Tournament Friday night at Greenbrook Softball Complex in Southaven. The game will be broadcast on the Statesmen Sports Network beginning at 6:15 p.m. For more information, please contact the GSC Office (205) 991-9880 or log on to www.gulfsouthconference.org.

May 3, 2006

EUPORA'S EDIE OLIVER INKS WITH LADY STATESMEN  

CLEVELAND – Edie Oliver , a 5-8 pitcher/outfielder from Eupora, signed with coach David Kuhn and the Delta State University Lady Statesmen on Wednesday. Oliver becomes the fourth player to sign with DSU since the official signing period began two weeks ago.

“Edie an exceptional student-athlete with a tremendous amount of potential,” said DSU head coach David Kuhn. “She can pitch or play in the infield and I believe she will bring a lot to this program in the fall.”

Oliver has played the last four years for the Eupora High School Eagles. A starter since the eighth grade, Oliver helped guide the Lady Eagles to District Championship titles form 2002- 2006, and a State Championship in 2005. The 5’8 senior garnered All-State and All-District honors from 2002-2006 including District MVP honors from 2002-2005.

This season, Oliver is hitting .370 with 11 RBI’s, but her ability to pitch is grabbing all the attention. The lefty has made 14 appearances this season with an 11-4 record and a 1.69 ERA. She has struck out an amazing 104 batters in those 14 appearances.

Her career with the Lady Eagles has been truly exceptional. She holds the school record for most appearances (77), wins (63), lowest career ERA (1.26) and career strikeouts (506).

Oliver will enroll at Delta State University in August. She is expected to serve as a pitcher and position player during her career with the Lady Statesmen. She is currently undecided on her plans for a major.

May 3, 2006

LADY STATESMEN SET TO BEGIN POSTSEASON RUN  

CLEVELAND – David Kuhn and the Delta State University Lady Statesmen (46-21, 22-10 GSC) are poised to begin their postseason title run this weekend at the Gulf South Conference Tournament at Greenbrook Softball Complex in Southaven. The Lady Statesmen are the top seed out of the West Division.

“We are excited about the opportunity to play some of the nation’s top teams this weekend in Southaven,” said Kuhn. “Eight teams will battle for the GSC title and we believe we have one of the top teams in the tournament.”

The Lady Statesmen finished the regular season 46-21 overall and 22-10 in the GSC West Division. Delta State captured a second-consecutive division crown after splitting with Christian Brothers University last Friday in Memphis, Tenn. The win guaranteed the Lady Statesmen the top draw out of the West.

“Obviously being the top seed has its advantages, but in this tournament you have to be ready to play from the first pitch,” added Kuhn.

The Lady Statesmen possess one of the nation’s most powerful offenses. Delta State has blasted a school-record 75 home runs this season and need just three to break the GSC single season record. The Lady Statesmen currently lead the GSC in hits (577), triples (14), home runs (75), total bases (921) and rank in the top five in every other major offensive category.

Alyse Hasty, the reigning GSC West Division Player of the Year, will lead DSU into the tournament. Hasty is batting .408 with 17 home runs and 55 RBI. She set the DSU and GSC career record for stolen bases earlier this year with 134. The St. Louis, Mo. native also broke the GSC single season record for stolen bases with 58.

Hasty is not alone. Senior shortstop Ashlee Nodhturft is hitting .356 with 23 doubles, 14 home runs and 49 RBI. Junior right fielder Amber Hass is one of the top newcomers in the GSC. Hass is batting .359 with 12 home runs and a school-record 58 RBI. Bre Myers (10 home runs) and Meredith Coleman (seven home runs) also provide some punch to the order.

The Lady Statesmen have not been all offense this season. Britni Adcox (16-5), Randa Blenden (11-5) and Sam St. Hilaire (10-5) have all recorded double digit victories, while Jenna Smart (8-5) has nailed down four saves.

The Lady Statesmen will open with East four seed Lady Braves of the University of West Georgia (39-24, 21-11 GSC). DSU has faced UWG three times this season with the Lady Braves taking two of the meetings by a combined four runs. The Lady Braves feature a potent offense and solid pitching.

The winner of the DSU versus UWG game will face the winner of the North Alabama (38-16, 22-10 GSC) versus Henderson State (37-16, 20-14 GSC) winner.

The other half of the bracket features the East one seed West Florida (34-16, 22-9 GSC), West two seed Arkansas-Monticello (33-28, 21-14), East three seed Alabama-Huntsville (44-15, 21-10 GSC) and the West four seed Southern Arkansas (25-29, 16-18 GSC).

All Delta State University games will be broadcast on the Delta State Sports Network. The SouthGroup Insurance Pre-game Report will begin 15 minutes prior to first pitch each game. The broadcasts can also be heard on the internet at www.gostatesmen.com.

Tickets are on sale now for the entire tournament. For more information, please contact the Gulf South Conference at (205) 991-9880 or log on to www.gulfsouthconference.org for more information.

 

April 29, 2006

WEATHER AND LIGHTNING FORCE CANCELLATION OF DSU-CBU SERIES

MEMPHIS , TENN. – Inclement weather in the Memphis area forced the cancellation of the final two games of the series between the Delta State University Lady Statesmen(46-21, 22-10 GSC) and the Christian Brothers University Lady Bucs (21-33, 7-26 GSC). The teams split the first two games on Friday at Lady Bucs Field.

The cancellation plus a pair of losses by Henderson State University guaranteed the Lady Statesmen their second straight Gulf South Conference West Division title. The West crown also gives the Lady Statesmen top seed out the West coming into next weekend’s GSC Tournament in Southaven.

The Lady Statesmen will face the fourth seed out of the East division next Friday, May 5 at 2 p.m. at the Greenbrook Complex in the first round of the GSC Tournament. All DSU games will be broadcast on the Delta State Sports Network. Tickets are on sale now! For more information, please contact the Gulf South Conference office at (205) 991-9880 or log on to www.gulfsouthconference.org.

 

April 28, 2006

LADY STATESMEN SPLIT GSC DOUBLEHEADER WITH LADY BUCS

MEMPHIS , TENN. – The Delta State University Lady Statesmen(46-21, 22-10 GSC) split a GSC doubleheader on Friday with the Christian Brothers University Lady Bucs (21-33, 7-26 GSC) at Lady Buc Field. The Lady Bucs claimed game one 7-0 with DSU prevailing in the nightcap 7-6 in eight inning. The Lady Statesmen still need one win or a Henderson State loss to claim the GSC West Division outright.

In game one, the Lady Statesmen struggled at the plate connecting on two hits and no runs. Catcher Tori Malone and third baseman Paige Wright each recorded a hit for DSU. CBU jumped out on top when Jenny Bernard doubled down the left field line to start the bottom of the first. She moved to third on a ground out and scored on an RBI from Michelle Paul.

The Lady Bucs scored three runs in each of the third and fourth innings. Tia Shores knocked home her fourth home run of the season in the third, scoring both Paul and Bernard. Sammy Maness homered in the fourth, scoring Hannah Shackelford. Michelle Paul added her second RBI of the game when she singled through the right side scoring Dunn.

Dunn went all seven, striking out eight, walking two and allowing just two hits, for her 22nd complete game of the year and eighth shutout. Shores had three RBIs and a run scored, while Paul and Maness each drove in two. Bernard had three hits and two runs scored.

The Lady Bucs took first blood again in game two with six runs in the second inning. Game two starter Kallie McFatter got it started when she doubled to left center scoring Meagan Shackleford. Lauren Hearn walked behind the double and Hannah Shackelford singled to left center, scoring Maness. Bernard and Paul both added two run hits later in the inning.

Delta State answered back with six runs over the third and fourth to tie the game at six. The game remained tied until the top of the eighth when Alyse Hasty doubled to left field scoring Brittany Tillery from third. Randa Blenden pitched seven innings of relief and struck out four to earn the win.

Both teams will be back at it tomorrow, April 29 with a double-header beginning at noon. The doubleheader will be internet broadcast beginning at 11:45 a.m. on www.gostatesmen.com. For more information, please contact the DSU Athletic Department at (662) 846-4300 or log on to www.gostatesmen.com.

with assistance from Justin Maskus

 

April 27, 2006

LADY STATESMEN ADD HARRIS TO 2006 CLASS  

CLEVELAND - Erica Harris became the third player to sign with coach David Kuhn and the Delta State University Lady Statesmen softball program on Wednesday. Harris a native of Houston, Texas, joins the Lady Statesmen by way of Navarro Junior College where she started in the outfield for the Lady Bulldogs. The 5-9 sophomore is expected to play centerfield at DSU.

“Erica has tremendous talent and she is also a great student in the classroom,” said DSH head coach David Kuhn. “I expect great things from her next season.”

The sophomore helped guide the Lady Bulldogs to a conference and regional championship in 2005, along with a trip to the Junior College World Series. She was named to the Junior College All-Star game for her efforts.

Harris boasts a phenomenal .405 batting average with 20 RBI and two home runs. She also possesses blazing speed, leading the team with 12 steals on the season.

Her leadership on and off the field make her an all around player. In the classroom she has a 3.55 GPA and is a member of Phi Theta Kappa. For more information, please contact the Delta State University Athletic Department at (662) 846-4300 or log on to www.gostatesmen.com.

 

April 26, 2006

DSU’S HASTY NAMED GULF SOUTH CONFERENCE PLAYER OF THE WEEK AFTER RECORDING SETTING PERFORMANCES  

CLEVELAND – Delta State University senior centerfielder Alyse Hasty was named the Gulf South Conference West Division Player of the Week for the period ending Sunday, April 23 after breaking two GSC records over the weekend. It is her first honor of the season and the seventh in her career.

The St. Louis, Mo. native set two GSC records last week while leading the Lady Statesmen to a 5-1 mark. Hasty became the GSC’s career stolen base leader with a swipe of second in Saturday’s doubleheader versus Ouachita Baptist. She has stolen 133 bases in her four years at DSU. The previous mark was 132. This season Hast has also rewritten the single-season record for stolen bases. Coming into Friday’s doubleheader at Christian Brothers, Hasty is stolen 57 bases in 63 attempts. The previous mark was 52.

The senior went 11-19 (.578) with eight runs, eight RBI and two home runs in six games last week. She also had two walks and six stolen bases. The St. Louis, Mo. native had a .789 slugging percentage and a .596 on-base percentage.

The Lady Statesmen will conclude the regular season at Christian Brothers University this weekend in Memphis, Tenn. Delta State has a three game lead in the GSC West Division standings with four games remaining. Friday’s doubleheader will be gin at 2 p.m. with Saturday’s twin bill set for 12 p.m. All four games will be broadcast on the Statesmen Internet Radio Network. For more information, please contact the Delta State University Athletic Department at (662) 846-4300 or log on to www.gostatesmen.com.

 

April 23, 2006

LADY STATESMEN DOWN LADY TIGERS 7-0 AND 4-3 TO COMPLETE SWEEP

CLEVELAND – The Delta State University Lady Statesmen(45-20, 21-9 GSC) completed a four game sweep of the Ouachita Baptist University Lady Tigers (17-19, 13-19 GSC) with a pair of victories on Sunday at University Field. DSU claimed game one 7-0 before edging OBU 4-3 in the nightcap.

The Lady Statesmen jumped out to an early 3-0 in the bottom of the first inning of game one. DSU managed an unearned run on a throwing error by OBU before Amber Hass blasted a two-RBI single down the leftfield line. The Lady Statesmen would make it 6-0 with a three-run home run by Bre Myers over the left-centerfield wall in the second. DSU would plate another run in the second to extend the lead to 7-0.

DSU and OBU would fail to score any runs over the next five innings, as both pitching staffs baffled the oppositions.

Britni Adcox (16-5) tossed the complete-game shutout. Adcox tossed seven innings allowing just five hits with three strikeouts. OBU’s Beth McGhee (7-7) took the loss. McGhee allowed seven runs in six innings pitched off seven hits with five walks and one strikeout.

Bre Myers went 1-for-2 in game one with two runs scored, a three-run home run and three RBI. Amber Hass also provided a spark with two RBI and a pair of singles.

Alyse Hasty became the sole possessor of the Gulf South Conference career-stolen base record in the first inning. The senior from St. Louis, Mo. swiped second base for her 134 career stolen base. She also added to her single-season record with 57 stolen bases.

Game two proved to be quite closer than the previous three games. DSU had outscored OBU 29-6 heading into the final game of the series, but the Lady Tiger staff was determined not to let another game get out of hand.

OBU would take an early 1-0 lead in the top of the second inning on Beth McGhee’s RBI double to right. The Lady Statesmen would tie the game at 1-1 each in the bottom of the inning on Torie Malone’s RBI single scoring Bre Myers.

In the third, OBU would go up 2-1 on an RBI single by Erin Matthews. In the DSU half of the inning, Alyse Hasty connected on a three-run home run to extend the DSU lead to 4-2. OBU would add a single run in the fifth, but would manage no more.

The Lady Statesmen finished the game with four runs on five hits with zero errors, while the Lady Tigers scored three runs on eight hits with zero errors.

Sam St. Hilaire (10-5) picked up the win for DSU. The Turner, Maine native tossed four innings allowing three runs on seven hits with two strikeouts. Jenna Smart (4) worked the final three innings to earn the save. The senior from Morris, Ill. allowed only one hit with three strikeouts in a stellar performance. OBU’s Lisa White took the loss after pitching six innings allowing four runs on five hits.

Alyse Hasty (16) went 2-for-3 with a three-run home run, a run scored and three RBI to lead the Lady Statesmen. Torie Malone went 1-for-3 with an RBI as well.

The Lady Statesmen will conclude the regular season next weekend in a GSC series at Christian Brothers University. Friday’s doubleheader is set for 2 p.m. with Saturday’s twin bill slated to begin at noon. For more information or to purchase tickets, please contact the DSU Athletic Department at (662) 846-4300 or log on to www.gostatesmen.com.

 

April 22, 2006

LADY STATESMEN TAKE TWO FROM OBU ON SENIOR DAY AT UNIVERSITY FIELD; HASTY HAS HISTORIC DAY

CLEVELAND - The Delta State University Lady Statesmen(43-20, 19-9 GSC) defeated the Ouachita Baptist University Lady Tigers (17-17, 13-16 GSC) twice Saturday at University Field. Celebrating Senior Day, the Lady Statesmen offense came alive in a key Gulf South Conference and in-region match-up.

“I was very proud of the way our ladies responded to the importance of this series today,” said DSU head coach David Kuhn. “It was an emotional day for all of us, but we really responded at the plate, defensively and on the mound.”

Saturday Kuhn, his staff and Delta State University Athletics recognized six seniors for their outstanding careers. Meredith Coleman, Bre Meyers, Alyse Hasty, Ashlee Nodhturft, Katie Wright and Jenna Smart were all honored at a ceremony between games on Saturday. This senior class helped the Lady Statesmen to a combined 158 wins and the 2005 GSC West Division title.

In game one, the Lady Statesmen jumped out to an insurmountable 8-0 lead over the Lady Tigers early in the affair. Seniors Coleman, Hasty, and Meyers all connected on back-to-back-to-back homeruns in the first inning. The Lady Tigers would score one run in the fourth followed by two runs in the fifth to make it an 8-3 game.

The Lady Statesmen would score three more runs, two in the fourth and another off another solo home run by Meyers in the bottom of the sixth. The runs extended the Lady Statesmen lead to 11-3 and forced the game to be called due to the run-rule.

Ashlee Nodhturft scored two runs on three hits with three RBI, while Meredith Coleman connected on one home run. Alyse Hasty scored two runs with two hits and two RBI. Bre Meyers went 3-for-3 with three runs scored, two home runs and three RBI.

Sam St Hilaire (9-5) picked up the win for the Lady Statesmen. The sophomore from Turner, Maine pitched five innings giving up three runs on three hits with three strikeouts. Krystal Robinson recorded the loss for OBU. She allowed four runs on four hits with no strike outs.

Game two proved to have the same result, as Delta State again defeated OBU 11-3 in six innings. The Lady Statesmen would score four runs in the second and third innings to take a commanding 8-3 lead over OBU. Delta State would wrap-up the double header scoring three runs in the sixth to seal the victory, 11-3.

Katie Wright went 2-for-3 with a two-run home run and two RBI. Ashlee Nodhturft would finish the day with grand-slam home run in the second inning. Nodhturft closed the day 1-for-3 with a run scored and four RBI. Britni Adcox also connected on a home run. Alyse Hasty went 3-for-4 with a run scored and an RBI.

Randa Blenden(12-5) would record the win for DSU. The junior from Waco, Texas tossed six innings allowing three runs on four hits with three walks and four strikeouts. Lisa White took the loss for OBU.

The day also proved to be historic for senior centerfielder Alyse Hasty. Hasty set the Gulf South Conference single-season record for stolen bases with 56, while tying the GSC career-record for stolen bases with 132.

The Lady Statesmen and Lady Tigers will conclude the series Sunday with a doubleheader. Game time is set for 1 p.m. at University Field. It will be the final regular season home game for the Lady Statesmen in 2006.

 

April 20, 2006

DELANIE SLOAN INKS WITH LADY STATESMEN

CLEVELAND – Delanie Sloan became the second high school senior to sign with coach David Kuhn and the Delta State University Lady Statesmen softball program on Wednesday. Sloan is out of Bellville High School in Bellville, Texas where she plays catcher for the Lady Brahmas.

“Delanie is an excellent player with a wealth of potential,” said DSU head coach David Kuhn. “She has played catcher, second base and a little utility at Bellville and I believe she will be able to come in and help us at one of those positions.”

Sloan helped guide the Lady Brahmas to District and Area Championships in 2003 and 2005. Last season, Sloan received All-District honors at catcher after batting .378 with 31 hits, 38 runs scored and 13 RBI. She was also named to the Academic All-District team three years in a row. Sloan was twice awarded the Bellville Golden Glove Award and in 2003 was named the BHS Offensive MVP.

The Bellville, Texas native also excels in the classroom. She ranks amongst the top students in her class and in May she will graduate with 4.03 GPA. She is a member of the National Honor Society and in 2003-2005 received the Academic Excellence Award at BHS. She plans on majoring in Business or Sports Medicine at DSU.

 

April 19, 2006

LADY STATESMEN SPLIT DOUBLEHEADER WITH LADY RAMS

CLEVELAND – The Delta State University Lady Statesmen (41-20) split a non-conference doubleheader with the Albany State University Lady Rams (24-22) on Wednesday at University Field. Delta State won game one 7-4 with Albany State taking game two 2-1.

The Lady Statesmen jumped out to an early 4-0 lead on the Lady Rams in game one before claiming the 7-4 decision. DSU scored the four runs in the bottom of the first on a pair of RBI singles and a two-RBI double by Amber Hass. ASU would cut the lead to 4-3 with three runs in the top of the second. The Lady Statesmen would add two unearned runs in the bottom of the second to extend the lead to 6-3. The Lady Rams would score a single run in the third to get within two runs, 6-4, of DSU. The Lady Statesmen plated their final run in the fourth on a sacrifice by Alyse Hasty scoring Ashlee Nodhturft.

Jenna Smart (7-5) picked up the win in relief of Sam St. Hilaire. Smart pitched 4.2 innings allowing no runs with nine strikeouts. Albany State’s Shari Golden (12-10) picked up the loss.

Ashlee Nodhturft led DSU at the plate. The senior shortstop from Ocean Springs went 3-for-4 with three doubles and two runs scored. Alyse Hasty also had a solid game. The senior from St. Louis, Mo. was 2-for-3 with two runs scored and two RBI.

Game two belonged to the Lady Rams thanks to the solid pitching of Chastity Dean. Dean (12-11) handcuffed the Lady Statesmen for seven innings allowing one run on five hits with three walks and four strikeouts.

The Lady Rams took a 2-0 lead in the top of the second thanks to a pair of errors by the Lady Statesmen. DSU would score one run on a solo home run by Ashlee Nodhturft (13).

Britni Adcox (15-5) was saddled with the loss after pitching one inning and allowing two unearned runs. Randa Blenden pitched six solid innings of relief, but did not factor in the decision.

The Lady Statesmen finished with one run on five hits with three errors, while the Lady Rams managed two runs on three hits without an error.

The Lady Statesmen will return to Gulf South Conference play on Friday at University Field versus Ouachita Baptist University. Friday’s doubleheader is slated to begin at 6 p.m. with Saturday’s games set for 2 p.m. For more information, please contact the DSU Athletic Department at (662) 846-4300 or log on to www.gostatesmen.com.

April 17, 2006

LADY STATESMEN ADD MORELAND
TO 2006 RECRUITING CLASS  

CLEVELAND – Delta State University head softball coach David Kuhn announced the signing of Kate Moreland to a National Letter of Intent on Tuesday at the Chadwick-Dickson Athletic Field House. Moreland becomes the first student-athlete to officially sign with the Lady Statesmen this season.

“We are extremely excited about the signing of Kate Moreland to our program,” said DSU head coach David Kuhn. “She is an exceptional athlete with a strong desire to win and we believe she will be a great asset to this University and program.”

Kate Moreland comes to DSU from East Webster High School in Cumberland. Prior to East Webster, Moreland was a standout at Starkville Academy where she was a five-time MPSA All-State, All-District and All-Conference selection. As a sophomore, Moreland helped SA capture the North State championship. Her junior season SA finished runner-up.

At EWHS, Moreland currently leads the team in strike-outs, stolen bases, and home runs, while helping lead EWHS into the MHSAA playoffs. Arguably one of the top pitchers in the state, Moreland is solid at the plate as well. She is currently batting .377 with 29 hits and three home runs.

The swift-footed lefty is also 22-of-24 in stolen base attempts. On the mound, Moreland is 10-6 with an astonishing 156 strikeouts. She has allowed only three earned runs all year while amassing a miniscule 0.12 ERA.

She also lettered in basketball during her ninth and twelfth grade seasons. During her freshman year at SA captured the state championship.

She plans to major in Elementary Education with a minor in Business at Delta State University.

 

April 15, 2006

LADY STATESMEN AND SUGAR BEARS SPLIT GSC DOUBLEHEADER; DSU TAKES SERIES 3-1

CONWAY , ARK. – The Delta State University Lady Statesmen (40-19, 17-8 GSC) and the University of Central Arkansas Sugar Bears (9-29, 6-21 GSC) split the final two games of their Gulf South Conference series Saturday at Farris Field. UCA claimed game one 4-3, while the Lady Statesmen edged the Sugar Bears 6-5 in the nightcap. The split gave the Lady Statesmen the series win three games to one.

The Sugar Bears were able to squeak-out a 4-3 decision in the first game of Saturday’s doubleheader thanks to the strong pitching performance of Lindsey Burgess (3-9). Burgess pitched a complete game allowing three runs on seven hits with a walk and a strikeout to earn the win. DSU’s Jenna Smart (6-5) was saddled with the loss. Smart pitched seven innings allowing four runs on seven hits with five walks and six strikeouts.

UCA fell behind early 3-0, as the Lady Statesmen offense got untracked early. In the first inning Ashlee Nodhturft scored on Bre Myers’ RBI double to give the Lady Statesmen a 1-0 lead. In the second, it was Nodhturft’s bat that provided the spark. Nodhturft cranked a double to left field to extend the DSU lead to 3-0. That was all Burgess and the Sugar Bears would allow.

The Sugar Bears would plate three runs in the third to tie the game at 3-3. The game would remain tied until the bottom of the seventh inning when UCA would push across the winning run. In the inning, Smart would issue a leadoff walk to UCA’s catcher Chrissy Scalia. Three batters later, Scalia scored the winning run on a single to left.

UCA finished the first game with four runs on seven hits with zero errors, while DSU scored three runs on seven hits with zero errors as well.

The Lady Statesmen in game two did just enough to claim their third win of the series with a 6-5 decision. DSU would go up 1-0 in the first as Ashlee Nodhturft scored on an error by UCA.

The lead wouldn’t last for long as UCA would plate two runs in the bottom of the first on a two RBI double by Robin Hinton. In the top of the third Nodhturft led off the inning with a double and would later score on Myers’ RBI single to take a 3-2 lead.

Meredith Coleman’s solo home run and Ashlee Nodhturft’s RBI single extended the Lady Statesmen advantage to 4-2 in the fourth. DSU would add another run in the sixth on an error by UCA. The Sugar Bears countered with a run in the bottom of the sixth to cut the deficit to one.

DSU went up 6-5 in the top of the seventh on Paige Wright’s RBI single scoring Amber Hass. UCA would push two runs across in the bottom of the seventh before Britni Adcox (15-4) slammed the door for her 15 th win of the year.

Adcox pitched seven innings allowing five runs on nine hits with two walks and a strikeout. UCA starter Natalie Faulkner (1-7) earned the loss after tossing seven innings. She allowed six runs on 12 hits with one strikeout.

The Lady Statesmen return to University Field on Wednesday for a doubleheader with Albany State University. Wednesday’s games will start at 5 p.m. Tickets are on sale now! For more information or to purchase tickets, please contact the DSU Athletic Department at (662) 846-4300 or log on to www.gostatesmen.com.

 

April 14, 2006

LADY STATESMEN SWEEP SUGAR BEARS 1-0 AND 11-2 IN KEY GSC SERIES

CONWAY , ARK. – The Delta State University Lady Statesmen (39-18, 16-7 GSC) swept a key Gulf South Conference doubleheader with the University of Central Arkansas Sugar Bears (8-28, 5-20 GSC) 1-0 and 11-2 at Farris Field on Saturday. The sweep gives the Lady Statesmen an extra boost heading into the final two weeks of the GSC regular season.

In game one, Sam St. Hilaire (8-5) tossed a complete-game five hit shutout. The sophomore from Turner, Maine stymied the Sugar Bears for seven innings allowing just five hits with two strikeouts. UCA’s Natalie Faulkner (1-6) took the tough loss. Faulkner worked all seven innings allowing one run with a strikeout.

Delta State scored the only run of the game in the top of the first inning as Ashlee Nodhturft scored on Bre Myers sac-fly RBI.

Nodhfturft led the Lady Statesmen at the plate. The senior from Ocean Springs went 3-for-4 with one run scored. Alyse Hasty also had a solid game for the Lady Statesmen. The senior from St. Louis, Mo. was 2-for-4.

Game two saw an offensive explosion by the Lady Statesmen offense, as DSU scored 11 runs on 18 hits in a mercy-rule-shortened 11-2 win.

The Lady Statesmen scored five runs in the first inning, one in the second, two in the fourth and three in the fifth. UCA crossed the plate with single runs in the third and fourth innings.

Seven Lady Statesmen drove in runs in the game led by Bre Myers with two. Alyse Hasty picked up where she left off in game one. Hasty went 4-for-4 with four runs scored, a double, a solo home run and one RBI. She was also 2-for-2 in stolen bases. Bre Myers went 3-for-4 with a double, home run and two RBI. Katie Wright was 2-for-3 with a run scored and an RBI. Amber Hass went 2-for-4 with a double, run scored and one RBI.

Randa Blenden (11-5) pitched five inning to earn the win. Blenden allowed two runs on seven hits with four strikeouts. Holly Vance (1-7) took the loss for UCA. Vance allowed 11 runs on 18 hits with a walk and one strikeout.

The Lady Statesmen and Sugar Bears will conclude the series on Saturday at 1 p.m. DSU will return to action on Wednesday versus Albany State in Cleveland. Game time is set for 5 p.m. Tickets are on sale now! For more information or to purchase tickets, please contact the DSU Athletic Department at (662) 846-4300 or log on to www.gostatesmen.com.

 

April 12, 2006

LADY STATESMEN AND LADY LIONS SPLIT DOUBLEHEADER AT UNIVERSITY FIELD

CLEVELAND - The Delta State University Lady Statesmen (37-18) and the University of North Alabama Lady Lions (30-12) split a doubleheader Wednesday at University Field. Delta State won game one 4-3 before falling 10-5 in the night cap.

The Lady Statesmen jumped out to a 3-0 lead in the bottom of the third. UNA would answer with two runs in the top of the fourth to cut the DSU lead to 3-2. The Lady Lions would tie the game in the top of the fifth at 3-3.

In the bottom of the fifth, DSU would take the lead for good at 4-3 on Kristi Basso's RBI single scoring Bre Myers.

Jenna Smart would slam the door in the sixth and seventh to seal the Lady Statesmen win. Sam St. Hilaire (7-5) picked up the win. St. Hilaire worked five innings allowing three runs on 10 hits. Smart (4) recorded the save after pitching two innings with two strikeouts.

Amber Hass (3-for-3) and Bre Myers (2-for-3) hit back-to-back home runs in the third.

Game two was a tale of errors and missed opportunities for the Lady Statesmen. DSU jump out to another 3-0 lead in the second inning on a two-RBI single by Page Wright and an RBI double by Ashlee Nodhturft.

UNA would score a single run in the third to cut the DSU lead to 3-1. The Lady Statesmen stretched the lead to three runs in the bottom of the third on Bre Myers' RBI single.

UNA would tied the game in the top of the fourth with three runs on four hits. DSU would go up 5-4 in the bottom of the fifth on Meredith Coleman's RBI single.

Leading 5-4 heading into the top of the seventh, DSU would get within one out of recording the win before committing two snowballing errors. UNA would score six runs in the inning against five DSU pitchers to take a 10-5 lead.

The Lady Lions would shutdown DSU in the bottom of the inning to record the win.

Jenna Smart took the loss for the Lady Statesmen. The senior from Morris, Ill. pitched two innings allowing five runs on two hits. Sarah Roberts earned the win.

Bre Myers went 3-for-4 with a run scored and an RBI in the loss. Alyse Hasty also went 1-for-4 with two runs scored.

The Lady Statesmen will travel to Conway, Ark. for a GSC doubleheader with the University of Central Arkansas. Friday's doubleheader is set for 6 p.m. with Saturday's twin bill set for 12 p.m.

April 9, 2006

LADY STATESMEN SPLIT GSC CROSSOVER DOUBLEHEADER FINALE

DECATUR, Ala. - The Delta State University Lady Statesmen (35-16, 14-7 GSC) split the final two games of the Gulf South Conference Crossover Tournament at the Decatur Athletic Complex. The Lady Statesmen downed the University of West Alabama Lady Tigers 4-2 before falling to the University of West Georgia Lady Braves 1-0.

The Lady Statesmen concluded Crossover play 2-4, but retain the GSC West Division lead.

Complete game stories and stats will be avilable on the web Monday morning on www.gostatesmen.com.

April 8, 2006

DELTA STATE DROPS HEARTBREAKER 1-0 TO UWF

DECATUR, Ala. - The Delta State University Lady Statesmen (34-15, 14-6 GSC) continued to struggle at GSC Crossover losing their third game in a row at the Crossover to the University of West Florida 1-0.

The Lady Statesmen will face West Alabama at 10 a.m. and West Georgia at noon to conclude the GSC Crossover Tournament on Sunday.

Check back later for complete stats and play-by-play.

April 7, 2006

LADY STATESMEN FALL 9-1 TO LADY BLAZERS

DECATUR , Ala. – The Valdosta State University Lady Blazers (27-14, 14-9 GSC) proved to be too much for the Delta State University Lady Statesmen (34-14, 14-5 GSC) in a 9-1 loss at the Gulf South Conference Crossover on Friday.

After three scoreless innings, both teams seemed to find some offensive rhythm in the fourth inning. DSU would strike first in the top of the fourth. Alyse Hasty doubled to right to open the inning and would later score on Amber Hass’ RBI single to left to give DSU a brief 1-0 lead. VSU come right back in the bottom of the inning to take the lead for good with two runs on a pair of RBI hits.

The Lady Statesmen would fail to generate any more offense against the excellent pitching of Christy Lindsey. The Lady Blazers would add two runs in the bottom of the fifth and explode for five runs in the sixth to halt the game due to the GSC run-rule.

Randa Blenden took the loss for DSU after pitching 3.1 innings. The junior from Waco, Texas allowed two runs on four hits with a walk and two strikeouts. Lindsey captured the complete game win. She allowed one run on six hits with six strikeouts.

Six Lady Statesmen recorded one hit each, while April Lloyd led VSU at the plate with four RBI.

The Lady Statesmen were scheduled to face Alabama-Huntsville Friday night, but the game was cancelled due to inclement weather. Saturday’s schedule features a single match-up versus West Florida at 3 p.m. No word was available as to whether the UAH game would be made up on Saturday. For more information, please contact the Delta State University Athletic Department at (662) 846-4300 or log on to www.gostatesmen.com.

 

April 6, 2006

LADY STATESMEN SPLIT OPENING GAMES AT GSC CROSSOVER IN DECATUR

DECATUR, Ala. - The Delta State University Lady Statesmen (34-13, 13-4 GSC) split their first two games of the Gulf South Conference Crossover Tournament on Thursday at the Decatur Athletic Complex.

DSU won game one 2-1 over GSC-East leader North Alabama. Lincoln Memorial would claim the nightcap 5-3.

Due to network problems we were unable to receive the game files as of 10 p.m. More information and full stats will be available on Friday.

The Lady Statesmen continue Crossover play tomorrow at 10 a.m. versus Valdosta State University. DSU will also face Alabama-Huntsville at 7 p.m.

Join J.T. Webb and Alan Logan for the complete GSC Crossover webcasts on www.gostatesmen.com.

 

April 4, 2006

LADY STATESMEN SWEEP DOUBLEHEADER WITH LADY CRUSADERS

CLEVELAND – The Delta State University Lady Statesmen (33-12) swept a non-conference doubleheader with the William Carey College Crusaders (17-13) at University Field on Tuesday. Delta State won game one 3-2 and game two 2-1.

It took a full seven innings for the Lady Statesmen to solve Carey starter Devin King’s pitching. King baffled the Lady Statesmen for six innings, but in the bottom of the seventh and down 2-0, Delta State mounted a comeback. Ashlee Nodhturft led off the inning with a bunt single. Lindsey Cordell followed with a single off the leg of King.

Alyse Hasty cut Carey’s lead to 2-1 with her RBI single to right. Meredith Coleman tied the game with an RBI single of her own. With the potential winning run at third, the Lady Statesmen executed the squeeze play off the bat of Bre Myers to perfection to seal a 3-2 win for DSU.

Sam St. Hilaire (6-2) picked up the win. St. Hilaire worked seven innings allowing two runs on six hits with a walk and four strikeouts. Devin King (9-9) took the loss for William Carey.

The Lady Statesmen finished with three runs on six hits with an error. The Crusaders scored two runs on six hits with no errors. WCC left five runners on base, while DSU stranded two.

Game two was another pitchers duel. The Lady Statesmen took an early 1-0 in the bottom of the first on a throwing error. WCC tied the game in the top of the fourth on a fielder’s choice. DSU would take the lead for good in the bottom of the fourth on a sac-bunt by Heather Greer. Britni Adcox slammed the door on the Lady Crusaders to deliver the win for the Lady Statesmen.

Adcox (12-4) took the win in relief. Adcox worked four scoreless innings with one strikeout. The sophomore from Covington, La. came on in relief of Randa Blenden. Blenden worked the first three innings allowing one run on three hits. Carey’s Brittany Ladner (8-7) took the loss.

The Lady Statesmen will travel to the Gulf South Conference Crossover Tournament this Thursday through Sunday in Decatur, Ala. Delta State will play seven games over the four-day span. For more information, please contact the Delta State University Athletic Department at (662) 846-4300 or log on to www.gostatesmen.com.

 

April 2, 2006

LADY STATESMEN SPLIT GSC DOUBLEHEADER WITH LADY REDDIES

ARKADELPHIA, Ark. – The Delta State University Lady Statesmen (31-12, 12-3 GSC) split a Gulf South Conference doubleheader Sunday with the Henderson State University Lady Reddies (26-7, 10-5 GSC) at Diamond Reddie Field. The Lady Statesmen claimed game one 9-3 before falling 5-2 in game two.

The Lady Statesmen and Lady Reddies picked up Saturday’s postponed game in bottom of the first with Delta State finding their offensive swagger. DSU trailed 1-0 when the game began and quickly tied the affair in the top of the second. The Lady Statesmen added four runs in the fourth and four more runs in the seventh. HSU added their runs, one each, in the sixth and seventh innings.

Sam St. Hilaire (5-2) tossed the complete game to earn the win. St. Hilaire went seven innings allowing three runs on five hits with three walks and seven strikeouts. Anna Lamb (16-6) was saddled with the loss.

Bre Myers, Katie Wright and Brittany Tillery all went deep for the Lady Statesmen. Amber Hass led DSU at the plate. Hass went 3-for-4 with two runs scored and an RBI.

Game two was a see-saw battle between the two GSC rivals. HSU jumped out to an early 2-0 lead in the bottom of the first on an RBI double by Lykendra Smith. Amber Hass tied the game in the second inning on a two-run home run. HSU regained the lead for good in the bottom of the third on a wild pitch by Sam St. Hilaire. HSU added a run in the fifth and sixth to build a 5-2 lead. DSU failed to muster any offense in the seventh.

Anna Lamb (17-6) earned the complete game win. Lamb went seven innings allowing two runs on nine hits with four strikeouts. Jenna Smart (6-2) took the loss in relief of Britni Adcox. Smart pitched 2.1 innings allowing two unearned runs.

Amber Hass led DSU at the plate again. The junior leftfielder went 2-for-4 with a two-run home run and a run scored.

The Lady Statesmen will return to University Field on Tuesday as DSU plays host to William Carey College. Game time is set for 4 p.m. for the doubleheader. Tickets are on sale now! For more information or to purchase tickets, please contact the Delta State University Athletic Department at (662) 846-4300 or log on to www.gostatesmen.com.

 

April 1, 2006

LADY STATESMEN FALL 1-0 IN EXTRAS

ARKADELPHIA, Ark. – The Delta State University Lady Statesmen (30-11, 11-2 GSC) found themselves on the short end of the scoreboard Saturday, as the Henderson State University Lady Reddies (25-7, 9-4 GSC) claimed a 1-0 extra innings win in game one of the Gulf South Conference series. Game two was postponed due to rain and lightning.

Delta Sate’s Randa Blenden and Henderson State’s Anna Lamb put on a pitching clinic at the Lady Reddies Diamond Reddie Field. Lamb baffled the Lady Statesmen for eight innings, while Blenden was able to use her defense for over seven innings to keep the Lady Reddies at bay.

Both teams had their opportunities in regulation, but neither team could push a run across the plate. In the eighth, the Lady Statesmen could not muster any offense despite Lamb issuing a walk to senior Katie Wright. In the Henderson eighth, Blenden allowed a leadoff single to Kelcie Glidden. Glidden advanced to second on Jeaniel Pati’s sacrifice. HSU would win the game on LeKyndra Smith’s RBI single to left.

Anna Lamb (16-5) picked up the win for the Lady Reddies with the complete game shutout. Lamb tossed eight innings allowing no runs on just two hits with 10 strikeouts. Randa Blenden (9-4) took the loss after pitching 7.1 innings. The junior from Waco, Texas allowed one run on six hits with four strikeouts.

The Lady Statesmen and Lady Reddies were forced to seek shelter in game two due to heavy rains and lightning in the bottom of the first inning. The game was called due to inclement weather. Game two will be resumed in the bottom of the first on Sunday at 1 p.m. with game three to follow after. Game four of the series will be considered a rainout. For more information, please contact the Delta State University Athletic Department at (662) 846-4300 or log on to www.gostatesmen.com.

 

March 25, 2006

LADY STATESMEN COMPLETE SWEEP OF COTTON BLOSSOMS 4-0, 5-0

CLEVELAND – The Delta State University Lady Statesmen (30-10, 11-1 GSC) wrapped up a four game sweep of the University of Arkansas-Monticello Cottom Blossoms (16-18, 4-4 GSC) with a 4-0 win in game one and a 5-0 win in game two Saturday at University Field.

In game one, Sam St. Hilaire (3-2) and the Lady Statesmen came out strong behind the sophomore’s strong pitching to win 4-0. In seven innings, the sophomore from Turner, Maine gave up just two hits while striking out five to earn the win. Ashlee Nodhturft, Bre Meyers, and Meredith Coleman each recorded two hits for the Lady Statesmen. Meyers recorded two RBIs in the first and sixth innings. Lindsey Cordell and Amber Hass both recorded on hit. Hass also had one RBI.

Game two of the double header again saw the Cotton Blossoms struggle at the plate. UAM had just five hits with no runs while the Lady Statesmen connected for five runs on six hits.

Senior leadership again proved very important for Delta State as Ashlee Nodhturft, Bre Meyers, Meredith Coleman, and Katie Wright each scored a run for the Lady Statesmen. Brittany Tillery and Amber Hass also had one hit for DSU. Meredith Coleman hit a homerun for the Lady Statesmen in the bottom of the sixth to close out the win 5-0 for Delta State.

Britni Adcox (11-4) recorded the win for DSU. The sophomore from Covington, La. pitched seven innings allowing only five hits. Ashley Burkett took the loss for UAM after giving up six hits and five runs.

The Lady Statesmen are back in action Saturday, April 1 as they travel to Arkadelphia, Ark. to play a four game GSC series with the Henderson State University Lady Reddies. You can see the Lady Statesmen at University Field on April 4 as they meet William Carey College in a double-header starting at 4 p.m.

 

March 24, 2006

LADY STATESMEN TAKE TWO FROM BLOSSOMS 9-3 AND 5-3

CLEVELAND – The Delta State University Lady Statesmen (28-10, 9-1 GSC) claimed the first two games of a Gulf South Conference series over the University of Arkansas-Monticello Cotton Blossoms (16-16, 4-2 GSC) with a 9-3 win in game one and a 5-3 win in game two. The victories extend the DSU win streak to five games overall and the Lady Statesmen have claimed the last four meetings between the two schools.

“We really played well at times tonight and I am very proud of the way our team responded,” said DSU head coach David Kuhn. “I hope we can carry this performance over into tomorrow’s doubleheader.”

Delta State claimed game one 9-3 behind the play of senior first baseman Meredith Coleman. Coleman went 3-for-4 with five RBI. The Schlatr native had a two-RBI single, two-RBI double and a solo home run to her credit. Ashlee Nodhturft connected on her tenth home run to help seal Randa Blenden’s (9-3) complete game victory.

Game two saw a pitcher’s duel between the Cotton Blossoms and Lady Statesmen. DSU starter Jenna Smart (6-1) earned the victory for DSU after pitching 4.1 innings with five walks and three strikeouts. UAM starter Leah Vaughn (4-7) took the loss. The Lady Statesmen scored five runs on five hits with one error, while the Cotton Blossoms tallied three runs on six hits with two errors. Bre Myers provided the offensive spark with a two-run home run in the fourth.

The Lady Statesmen and Cotton Blossoms will conclude their series on Saturday at 12 p.m. at University Field. Tickets are on sale now! For more information or to purchase tickets, please contact the Delta State University Athletic Department at (662) 846-4300 or e-mail us at athletics@deltastate.edu.

 

March 21, 2006

DELTA STATE ’S HASS NAMED GSC WEST SOFTBALL PLAYER OF THE WEEK

CLEVELAND – Delta State University junior outfielder Amber Hass was named the Gulf South Conference Softball Player of the Week for the period ending Monday, March 20. It is the second honor of the year for Hass.

Hass led DSU to a 6-3 record on the week, including two-game sweeps of in-region opponents Benedict and Tampa. The junior went 12-31 (.375) with ten runs and 18 RBI. She also had four homeruns, three stolen bases, two doubles and a triple. The Hamilton, Miss. native had a 1.13 slugging percentage and a .375 on-base percentage.

Hass and the Lady Statesmen return to action this Friday and Saturday for a Gulf South Conference series with the University of Arkansas-Monticello. Game times are set for 6 p.m. on Friday and noon on Saturday. Tickets are on sale now! For more information or to purchase tickets, please contact the Delta State University Athletic Department at (662) 846-4300 or log on to www.gostatesmen.com.

 

March 20, 2006

DELTA STATE VERSUS NORTH ALABAMA SERIES RESCHEDULED

CLEVELAND – Delta State University head softball coach David Kuhn announced on Monday that the doubleheader with the University of North Alabama scheduled for Tuesday had been rescheduled to April 12 at 4 p.m. due to inclement weather.

The Lady Statesmen will return to action this Friday and Saturday at University Field versus Gulf South Conference rival the University of Arkansas at Monticello. Friday’s doubleheader is slated to begin at 6 p.m. with Saturday’s doubleheader set for 12 p.m.

For more information or to purchase tickets, please contact the Delta State University Athletic Department at (662) 846-4300 or log on to www.gostatesmen.com.

March 19, 2006

DELTA STATE ’S MALONE SENDS LADY PIRATES OUT TO SEA 9-7

LAKELAND , FLA. – Delta State University Lady Statesmen junior catcher Torie Malone’s 250-foot two-run home run sent the Armstrong Atlantic State University Lady Pirates out to sea 9-7 in the final game of the Florida Southern College Moccasin Spring Invitational.

“After dropping our first three games, I was very pleased with the way our ladies responded,” said DSU head coach David Kuhn. “The ladies found a way game in and game out and I believe we can carry this into the remainder of the GSC schedule.”

Delta State jumped out to an early 1-0 lead in the bottom of the first, but Armstrong Atlantic would erupt for four runs in the top of the second to take a 4-1 lead. The Lady Statesmen would answer with three runs in the bottom of the second to tie it up on Ashlee Nodhturft’s three-run home run. Both teams would score two runs each in third.

Tied at 6-6, Delta State would take a brief 7-6 lead in the bottom of the fifth on Torie Malone’s RBI double. AASU would answer in the top of the sixth with a single run to tie the game at 7-7.

Britni Adcox (10-4) worked a scoreless seventh to give the Lady Statesmen one last chance. In the bottom of the seventh, Meredith Coleman doubled with one out. Bre Myers would fly out to bring Torie Malone to the plate with two outs. Malone blasted the Heather Woods offering over the centerfield wall to give the Lady Statesmen the walk-off win. It was their fourth in a row at the FSC Invitational.

Adcox picked up the win after tossing one inning. Jenna Smart started the game, but did not factor in the decision. Randa Blenden also worked 4.1 innings of relief. Heather Woods took the loss for AASU.

Malone paced the Lady Statesmen at the plate with a 3-for-4 effort with four RBI. Ashlee Nodhturft slammed her ninth home run of the year, while going 1-for-4 with a run scored and three RBI. Amber Hass finished with two RBI for DSU.

The Lady Statesmen will return to University Field for a doubleheader with the University of North Alabama on March 21 at 4 p.m. Tickets are on sale now! For more information or to purchase tickets, please contact the Delta State University Athletic Department at (662) 846-4300 or e-mail us at athletics@deltastate.edu.

 

March 18, 2006

LADY STATESMEN SLAM LADY BULLDOGS 10-4

LAKELAND, FLA. - The Delta State University Lady Statesmen (25-10) completed a trifecta of victories with a 10-4 win over the Bryant University Lady Bulldogs (0-4) in the final game of day two at the FSC Moccasin Spring Invitational.

Britni Adcox (9-4) picked up the win. Adcox worked 5.2 innings allowing four runs on nine hits with one walk and two strikeouts. Randa Blenden worked 1.1 innings of relief to earn the save.

Amber Hass provided the offensive spark with her ninth home run. Hass went 2-for-4 with two runs scored and four RBI. Meredith Coleman went 2-for-4 with a solo home run as well.

The Lady Statesmen will conclude the FSC Moccasin Spring Invitational with Armstrong Atlantic State at 11 a.m. on Sunday. DSU returns to University Field on March 21 versus North Alabama. Game time is set for 4 p.m.

March 18, 2006

LADY STATESMEN SWEEP DOUBLEHEADER WITH LADY SPARTANS 5-3 AND 10-5  

LAKELAND , FLA. – The Delta State University Lady Statesmen (24-10, 7-1 GSC) picked up a pair of wins over the University of Tampa Lady Spartans (12-14) with a 5-3 victory and a 10-5 decision in the Florida Southern University Moccasins Spring Invitational on Saturday.

The Lady Spartans led for most of game one before the Lady Statesmen found their offensive spark late in the contest. Tampa went up 1-0 in the first inning on an RBI single by Sam Becker. Tampa would add another run in fourth to lead 2-0.

The Lady Statesmen would answer with a run of their own in the sixth on Torie Malone’s (7) solo home run. In the top of the seventh down 2-1, the Lady Statesmen exploded for four runs to take a 5-2 lead. Meredith Coleman provided the spark with a three run blast. Tampa would add a run in the bottom of the inning, but to no avail. Lady Statesmen win 5-3.

Randa Blenden (7-3) picked up the win for the Lady Statesmen. Blenden tossed a complete game allowing three earned runs on nine hits with one walk and three strikeouts. Tampa’s Devlin Dougherty (4-4) took the loss.

Meredith Coleman finished the game with three RBI after a 1-for-4 performance at the plate. Lindsay Cordell went 2-for-3, while Torie Malone went 1-for-3 with her seventh home run of the year.

The Lady Statesmen finished with five runs on nine hits with one error, while the Lady Spartans managed three runs on nine hits with zero errors in game one.

Game two saw the Lady Statesmen offense explode for 10 runs on thirteen hits versus Lady Spartan pitching. Delta State jumped out to a 4-0 lead in the bottom of the first powered by Amber Hass’ two-run home run. Tampa cut the lead to 4-1 on an RBI single from Nicole Fenno.

In the bottom of the second, Delta State would add another run on Lindsay Cordell’s RBI single. Tampa cut the lead once again to 5-4 with three runs in the top of the third. In the bottom of the inning, Ashlee Nodhturft’s two-run home run and Torie Malone and Brittany Tillery’s pair of RBI singles carried the Lady Statesmen to a 9-4 lead.

Tampa added a run on Nicole Fenno’s RBI single in the top of the fifth to cut the margin to 9-5. The Lady Statesmen countered with a run in bottom of the sixth on Alyse Hasty’s sac-fly RBI.

The Lady Statesmen finished with 10 runs on 13 hits with three errors, while Tampa finished with five runs on 10 hits with a pair of errors. Jenna Smart (5-1) picked up the win. The senior from Morris, Ill. pitched a complete game allowing five runs (three earned) with three walks and a season-high 11 strikeouts. Tampa’s Sam Becker took the loss for the Lady Spartans.

The Lady Statesmen will conclude the FSC Moccasin Spring Invitational with single games versus Bryant Universityand Armstrong Atlantic State. The Lady Statesmen will return to University Field on March 21 for a doubleheader with the University of North Alabama. Tickets are on sale now! For more information or to purchase tickets, please contact the Delta State University Athletic Department at (662) 846-4300 or e-mail us at athletics@deltastate.edu.

 

March 17, 2006

HILLSDALE DOWNS DELTA STATE 6-3

LAKELAND, FLA. - Hillsdale College continued the woes for the Delta State University Lady Statesmen (22-10) with a 6-3 victory in the third and final game of day one at the Florida Southern College Spring Invitational.

Hillsdale College jumped out to an early 1-0 lead in the top of first on a sac-fly RBI by Caroline Sevey. DSU answered with two runs of their own in the bottom of the second on a single by Ashlee Nodhturft and Brittany Tillery.

Hillsdale would go up 3-2 with two runs in the top of the fifth. The Lady Statesmen tied the game at three in the bottom of the inning on Amber Hass' RBI double.

Hillsdale went up 5-3 on a pair of solo home runs in the sixth and the Chargers would add an insurance run in the seventh to lead 6-3. The Lady Statesmen would go scoreless in the seventh to end the game.

The game was delayed for over 45 minutes in the bottom of the sixth due to a power outage in the Lakeland area.

Jenna Smart (4-2) took the loss. The senior from Morris, Ill. worked four innings allowing two runs on five hits with four strikeouts. Ashlee Nodhturft went 2-for-2 with a run scored and an RBI.

The Lady Statesmen will play three games on day two with a doubleheader versus Tampa and a nightcap versus Bryant University. DSU and UT will play at 11 a.m. and again at 1 p.m. Bryant and DSU will play at 8 p.m.

March 17, 2006

FLORIDA SOUTHERN SWEEPS TWO WITH DELTA STATE

LAKELAND – Jackie Leppla hit two home runs and had seven RBI, and Megan Brown earned one win as a starter and one as a reliever as #3 Florida Southern beat Delta State (MS) 7-0 and 11-4 on the first day of the Florida Southern Spring Invitational.

The Moccasins (22-1) put the Lady Statesmen (22-9) away early in the first game, scoring all seven of its runs in the first three innings. Leppla started the scoring with a two-run homer in the first. The Mocs added two more runs in the second, with Michelle Tatlock scoring on the front end of a double steal and Nikki Henderson scoring on an error.

Tatlock started a three-run third inning with her second hit of the game, and later scored the first of two FSC runs in the inning on Delta State wild pitches. Ashley Alpizar’s base hit brought in the final run before the Mocs were blanked over the final three innings by DSU relief pitcher Randa Blenden.

Brown held the Lady Statesmen scoreless over the first five innings before giving way to Marisa Chase, who pitched the final two innings. It was Brown’s ninth win of the year against only one loss. Florida Southern’s two pitchers held Delta State to only four hits, two of them by Ashlee Nodhturft.

In game two, the Moccasins scored four runs in the first inning and never looked back. Leppla went three-for-four and walked one while hitting her second home run of the day and picking up a career-high five RBI. Her home run was a three-run shot in the fourth inning, and she added RBI singles in the fifth and seventh.

Florida Southern’s 11-run, 14-hit explosion forced Delta State into using four pitchers, and starter Britni Adcox didn’t make it out of the first inning as she walked two and allowed two hits to the first four batters she faced. Kohlbrenner’s single gave the Mocs their first run, Natalie Lang had a bases-loaded walk two batters later, and Leah English and Nikki Henderson also drove in runs during the big first inning.

Brown picked up her second win of the day and did so by pitching 3.1 innings of scoreless relief. Delta State had pulled to within 8-4 when Katie Wright hit a two-run homer in the fourth inning, and had loaded the bases with two out on a walk, error and infield single by Sam St. Hilaire. Brown came in the game at that point and got Alyse Hasty on a bouncer back to the circle to end the inning.

Brown then tossed three scoreless innings, allowing only one hit with four strikeouts. She improved to 10-1 on the season.

The Lady Statesmen will play three games in the FSC Spring Invitational on Saturday. Delta State will play Tampa at 11 a.m. and again at 1 p.m. The Lady Statesmen will play their nightcap at 8 p.m. versus Bryant University.

GAME ONE:

DSU	000	000	0	-	0	4	3
FSC	223	000	X	-	7	5	0

FSC— Brown, Chase (6) and English. DSU—Smart, Blenden (4) and Malone, Basso (4). W—Brown (9-1), L—Smart (4-1). HR—Leppla (FSC). T—1:45.

GAME TWO:

FSC	400	420	1	-	11	14	1
DSU	200	200	0	-	4	6	1

FSC— Bronson, Chase (3), Brown (4) and English. DSU—Adcox, Blenden (1), St. Hilaire (4), Coleman (4) and Basso, Malone (4). W—Brown (10-1), L—Adcox (8-4). 2B—Alpizar (FSC), Kohlbrenner (FSC). HR—Leppla (FSC), Hass (DSU), Wright (DSU). T—2:24.

March 14, 2006

LADY STATESMEN SWEEP DOUBLEHEADER WITH BENEDICT

COLUMBIA , SC - The Delta State Lady Statesmen completed a two-game Sweep of the Benedict College Tigers Tuesday in Columbia, SC. The Lady Statesmen claimed game one 15-7 and game two 12-1. Delta State is now 22-7 on the season.

Game one featured half a dozen runs in the first inning by the Lady Statesmen before adding three more in the second for a 9-2 advantage. The Lady Tigers would respond with five of their own in the bottom half of the inning, however still trailing 9-7. Delta State would add six more in the closing innings for a comfortable 15-7 victory.

Alyse Hasty finished 3-of-5 including a home-run (11) and three RBI’s. Amber Hass knocked in four RBI’s while finishing 4-of-5 including a triple.

Britni Adcox (8-3) recorded the win. She pitched 5.1 innings including five strike-outs.

Game two lasted only 6.2 innings thanks to the eight after six rule. The Lady Statesmen tallied eight runs before the Lady Tigers would get on the board in the bottom of the fifth. The game was called after four more runs crossed the plate for Delta State for a final score of 12-1.

Ashley Nodturft finished the game with a double and two RBI’s. Alyse Hasty had another round-tripper (12) including two RBI’s. Jenna Smart (4-0) recorded the win. The senior allowed just five hits for the complete game.

The Lady Statesmen will travel to Lakeland, Fla. this weekend for the Florida Southern College Lady Moccasin Classic.

 

March 11, 2006

LADY STATESMEN COMPLETE FOUR GAME SWEEP OF GOLDEN SUNS

CLEVELAND – The Delta State University Lady Statesmen (20-7, 7-1 GSC) completed a four game sweep of the Arkansas Tech University Golden Suns (11-7, 4-4) with a 6-2 win in game three and an 11-8 victory in game four.

“This was one of our best performances all year,” said DSU head coach David Kuhn. “Our offense really shined and defensively, we played well.”

In game one of Saturday’s doubleheader, Delta State took an early 1-0 lead on Alyse Hasty’s 10 th home run of the year. Both teams went scoreless in the second through fourth innings. ATU erupted for two runs in the top of the fifth to take a 2-1 lead. DSU answered with four runs in the bottom of the inning to take a 5-2 lead. DSU would add an insurance run in the sixth to seal the win.

Randa Blenden (6-2) picked up the win. Blenden pitched five innings allowing two runs on three hits with five strikeouts.

In game two, Arkansas Tech jumped out to an early 6-0 lead after two innings. In the bottom of the second, DSU scored five runs powered by Katie Wright’s three-run home run and Bre Myers solo shot.

ATU added two runs in the fourth to go up 8-5. DSU would answer with a run in the fifth on Amber Hass’ RBI single. In the sixth, DSU would add five runs on a three-run home run by Meredith Coleman and a two-run home run by Ashlee Nodhturft. ATU went scoreless in the seventh.

Randa Blenden (7-2) picked up the win for DSU. Nicole Berry was saddled with the loss. Blenden worked three innings allowing only one hit with three strikeouts. Jenna Smart (1) worked the seventh for the save.

The Lady Statesmen travel to Benedict College on Tuesday, March 14 at 3 p.m.

 

March 10, 2006

LADY STATESMEN SWEEP FIRST TWO WITH ATU; HASTY BREAKS SCHOOL STOLEN BASE RECORD

CLEVELAND - The Delta State University Lady Statesmen (18-7, 5-1 GSC) swept the first two games of a four game set with the Arkansas Tech University Golden Suns. DSU won game one 10-1 and claimed two 4-3 in nine innings.

Alyse Hasty set the school career stolen base record in game one. In the third inning tied 1-1, Hasty swiped second for her 100th career stolen base. She eclipsed the mark previously held by Leslie Pourciau. She ranks fourth all-time in the GSC and needs just 30 to set the GSC mark.

In the fourth inning, DSU erupted for nine runs on two three-run home runs. Ashlee Nodturft connected on a 300-foot blast to give DSU a 4-1 lead. Three batters later, Katie Wright smashed a three-run shot over the right field wall to go up 7-1. The Lady Statesmen would add two more runs to take a 10-1 lead.

Britni Adcox worked a perfect fifth to close out the game. Adcox picked up the win. The sophomore pitched five innings allowing one run on six hits with two strikeouts.

In game two, the pitchers shined in a 4-3 DSU extra-inning battle. DSU took a 3-0 lead into the seventh, but surrendered three runs to tie the game at 3-3. DSU went scoreless in the bottom of the seventh.

Neither team scratched the board in eighth. DSU would score on a throwing error by the right fielder to win the game in the bottom of the ninth.

Alyse Hasty swiped four bases in the game, while going 3-for-5 at the plate.

Randa Blenden picked up the win in relief.

Game three and four are scheduled for Saturday at 12 p.m. at University Field.

March 6, 2006

LADY STATESMEN AND LADY BRAVES SPLIT DOUBLEHEADER AT UNIVERSITY FIELD

CLEVELAND – Offense was no problem for either club on Monday at University Field as the Delta State University Lady Statesmen (16-7) and the University of West Georgia Lady Braves (12-10) split a doubleheader. DSU dropped a tough 9-3 decision to UWG in game one, while claiming a thrilling 7-6 victory in game two.

West Georgia exploded for six runs in the top of the first inning to set the tone for game one. Whitney Monk slammed a three run home run in the inning to give UWG a nice cushion. DSU answered with a run of their own in the bottom of the inning on Ashlee Nodhturft’s solo home run to left.

UWG added two runs in the second and one in the sixth to seal the win. DSU added two runs on a two RBI double by Meredith Coleman in the fifth.

Delta State ’s Randa Blenden (3-2) suffered the loss. Blenden went 3.1 innings allowing eight runs on seven hits with one walk and two strikeouts. West Georgia’s Kim Crider picked up the win. Crider went five innings allowing three runs on four hits with seven strikeouts.

Game two was a back and forth struggle between the two GSC foes. The Lady Statesmen took an early 2-0 lead after one inning on Meredith Coleman’s two RBI single. UWG would answer with a run in the second to cut the DSU lead to 2-1. DSU would add a run in the bottom of the second to go up 3-1.

The Lady Braves exploded for three runs with two unearned to take a 4-3. UWG added two insurance runs in the fifth to go up 6-3. Delta State answered with two runs in the bottom of the fifth on a steal of home and throwing error.

Trailing 6-5 heading into the top of the seventh, DSU reliever Jenna Smart struck out the side to give the Lady Statesmen one last chance. That’s all coach David Kuhn’s team would need. Lindsay Cordell walked to lead off the DSU seventh brining all-world centerfielder Alyse Hasty to the plate. Hasty was 2-for-3 coming into the at bat and instead of walking the two-time All-GSC slugger, West Georgia chose to pitch to her. On the third pitch to plate from Kim Thompson, Hasty sent a rise ball deep into the night air over the right field wall to give the Lady Statesmen a 7-6 victory.

Jenna Smart (2-0) earned the victory after pitching three innings of scoreless softball in relief. The Morris, Ill. native closed the game with six strikeouts. Britni Adcox started the game for the Lady Statesmen, but she did not factor in the decision. West Georgia’s Kim Thompson took the loss.

The Lady Statesmen will host Arkansas Tech University this Friday and Saturday for a pair of Gulf South Conference doubleheaders. Friday’s games are scheduled for 6 p.m., with Saturday scheduled for a noon start. For more information on the upcoming schedule, please contact the Delta State University Athletic Department at (662) 846-4300 or log on to www.gostatesmen.com.

 

March 4, 2006

DELTA STATE SOFTBALL TAKES TWO AT SAU

 Magnolia, Ark. - After losing the first of a four-game series to Southern Arkansas Friday, Delta State came back to win the next three, including a sweep Saturday of the Lady Muleriders. The Lady Statesmen are now 15-6 overall, and off to a 3-1 Gulf South Conference West Division start. The Lady Muleriders slumped to 4-9 for the year and 1-3 in league action.

In Saturday’s game, Southern Arkansas jumped to a 2-0 lead in the first inning, and added another in the fourth, for a 3-0 advantage heading into the fifth. Delta State scored two runs in the fifth, and won it with three more in the sixth, for a 5-3 decision.

DSU had six hits, three walks, and two errors, and SAU four hits, one walk, and three errors. Sam St. Hillaire pitched the first four innings for DSU. She gave up three hits, three runs with two earned, walked none, and fanned three. Britni Adcox finished the next three innings, allowing one hit, no runs, no walks, and had one strikeout. Adcox got the win for a 4-3 record.

Kayla King opened for SAU. She pitched six innings and gave up six hits, five runs with three earned, walked three, and fanned none. Macie Astolfo pitched the final inning. King was the loser, falling to 1-4.

Alyse Hasty led off the sixth inning for the Lady Statesmen with a solo home run. Ashlee Nodhturft and Katie Wright had doubles. No one had more than one hit for DSU.

Erin Litvik was the only player on either side to get more than one hit. She had two of

SAU’s four hits with a two for three performance. She scored once and drove in two runs. One of her two hits was a lead-off home run in the fourth inning.

In the second game, much like the first, Southern Arkansas scored in the second, and added two runs in the third, for a 3-0 lead. Delta State erupted for six runs in the fourth, and added single runs in the fifth and seventh innings, for an 8-3 win.

The Lady Statesmen blew the game open in the fourth on a grand slam to left by Amber Hass. After a fly-out to center, Brittany Tillery added to the avalanche with a solo dinger to left.

DSU had nine hits, four walks, and four errors, and SAU five hits, one walk, and two errors. Jenna Smart started for Delta State. She pitched two and a third innings, allowed three hits, three runs with one earned, walked one, and whiffed three. Adcox hurled the final four and two-thirds innings, giving up only two hits, and striking out one to get the win, upping her record to 5-3.

Macie Astolfo started for the Lady Muleriders, and lasted three and two-thirds innings. She gave up seven hits, six earned runs, walked none, and fanned one. King pitched the final three and a third innings, giving up two hits, two earned runs, walked four, and fanned one. Astolfo took the loss to fall to 3-5.

Delta State had three home runs, one each by Wright, Amber Hass, and Brittany Tillery. Nodhturft added a double. Wright was two for four, scored twice, and drove in a run, and Nodhturft was two for four, and scored. Hasty was one for two, scored twice, drove in a run, and walked twice.

Litvik was again the only Lady Mulerider with more than one hit. She was two for two,

drove in a run, and walked.

The Lady Statesmen return to action on Monday at 4 p.m. versus West Georgia. The doubleheader will be played at University Field.

 

March 3, 2006

LADY STATESMEN AND LADT RIDERS SPLIT GSC OPENING DOUBLEHEADER

MAGNOLIA, Ark. – The Delta State University Lady Statesmen (13-6, 1-1 GSC) softball team opened the Gulf South Conference schedule with a doubleheader split at Southern Arkansas University (4-7, 1-1 GSC) on Friday. The Lady Riders claimed the opening game 4-3 in eight innings, while the Lady Statesmen downed SAU 10-2 in the nightcap.

“We had our chances early in the first game, but couldn’t close it out,” said DSU head coach David Kuhn. “In the second game, we executed our offense and we were able to shutdown SAU.”

In game one, the Lady Statesmen offense struggled against the solid pitching of the Lady Riders. Kayla King and Macie Astolfo combined to baffle the Lady Statesmen for eight innings. The Lady Statesmen managed three runs and eight hits, but failed to get the needed hit in a few crucial situations.

SAU took a 1-0 lead in the second inning on Kayla Sharp’s RBI single to left. DSU answered in the third on Alyse Hasty’s RBI double scoring Ashlee Nodturft to tie the game at 1-1. The Lady Statesmen added a run in the fourth to take a 2-1 lead on Katie Wright’s solo home run to left. SAU would tie the game at 2-2 with an unearned run in the sixth. Both teams went scoreless in the seventh to send it to extra innings. In the eighth, the Lady Statesmen took a 3-2 on Katie Wright’s RBI single to left. SAU would score two runs in the bottom of the inning to seal the come-from-behind win.

Katie Wright paced the Lady Statesmen at the plate. The Maypearl, Texas native was 2-for-3 with a home run and two RBI. Astolfo (3-3) recorded the win for SAU, while Sam St. Hilaire (5-3) took the loss for DSU.

In game two, the Lady Statesmen offense exploded for 10 runs on 13 hits, while holding SAU to two runs on five hits. Alyse Hasty went 4-for-4 with a home run (7) and one RBI. The senior from St. Louis, Mo. led all players with three runs scored. Randa Blenden pitched four innings allowing two runs on four hits to earn the win. Astolfo (3-4) took the loss for the Lady Riders.

The Lady Statesmen will face the Lady Riders Saturday in a doubleheader beginning at 1 p.m. For more information on the series, please contact the Delta State University Athletic Department at (662) 846-4300 or e-mail us at athletics@deltastate.edu.

 

March 1, 2006

MYERS’ WALK-OFF HOME RUN LIFTS LADY STATESMEN TO 5-4 WIN OVER UWA

CLEVELAND – The Delta State University Lady Statesmen swept a doubleheader with the University of West Alabama Wednesday at University Field. The Lady Statesmen clawed their way to a 5-4 win in game one before blowing the doors off the Tiger cage in game two 10-2.

In game one, the Lady Statesmen needed a seventh inning rally to escape with the win. Trailing 4-1 headed in the bottom half of the inning, Delta State rallied for four runs including a three run walk-off home run by Bre Myers. Myers stepped to the plate with two outs and Brittney Tillery and Alyse Hasty on second and third. Myers’ blast sailed over the centerfield wall to seal the win for the Lady Statesmen.

Britni Adcox (4-3) claimed the victory after coming on in relief of starter Randa Blenden. Adcox threw four innings allowing two runs on three hits with no walks and four strikeouts to earn the win. At the plate, Delta State was led by Bre Myers. The senior second baseman from Dunellon, Fla. went 2-for-4 with four RBI’s. Alyse Hasty went 2-for-4 with two runs scored in the win. Shisler took the loss for the Lady Tigers.

In game two, Sam St. Hilaire threw four strong innings allowing two earned runs on only four hits with a walk and a strikeout. Designated player Paige Wright and leftfielder Amber Hass proved to be plenty for the Lady Statesmen. Wright went 2-for-2 with three RBI’s while Hass was 2-for-3 with three RBI’s. White took the loss for West Alabama. Jenna Smart worked the final inning to pick up the save.

The Lady Statesmen travel to Magnolia, Ark. for the Gulf South Conference regular season opener versus the Lady Muleriders of Southern Arkansas University. Game times are set for 4 p.m. on Saturday (doubleheader) and 1 p.m. on Sunday. For more information on the upcoming schedule, please contact the Delta State University Athletic Department at (662) 846-4300 or e-mail us at athletics@deltastate.edu.

 

February 28, 2006

DELTA STATE ’S AMBER HASS GARNERS FIRST GSC PLAYER OF THE WEEK

CLEVELAND – Delta State University Lady Statesmen junior Amber Hass was named the Gulf South Conference West Division Player of the Week for the period ending Monday, Feb. 27. It is the first career award for Hass at DSU.

Hass, a 5-7 junior from hamilton, led Delta State to a 4-1 record this week by getting at least two hits in all five games, driving in 12 runs and hitting .778 with five home runs and six runs scored. A 2005 second team JUCO All-American from Northeast Community College, Hass had a 1.925 slugging percentage while stealing two bases without getting caught. She was a combined 14-for-18 on the week in games against previously undefeated Georgia College and State and 8-1 Barry.

 

February 23, 2006

LADY STATESMEN CLAIM TWO OF THREE AT UAH CHARGER CHILLOUT

HUNTSVILLE , Ala. – The Delta State University Lady Statesmen (8-5) softball team claimed two of their three games Friday at the University of Alabama-Huntsville Lady Charger Chillout at the UAH Multiplex in Huntsville, Ala. With the wins, the Lady Statesmen move to 8-5 overall.

The Lady Statesmen began the day with a 5-2 victory over Georgia College and State University. Delta State pounded out nine hits in the effort led by senior shortstop Ashlee Nodhturft’s two-run home run. Senior center fielder Alyse Hasty went deep as well and finished the game with two RBI. Junior Amber Hass smashed a solo home run as well. Junior Randa Blenden (2-1) picked up the win, while GCSU’s Amanda King (0-1) took the loss. DSU scored five runs on nine hits with three errors, while GCSU finished with two runs on five hits.

Game two saw the Lady Statesmen dismantle Southern Indiana 9-3. The Lady Statesmen pounded out nine runs on 14 hits with zero errors, while SIU scored three runs on six hits. Sophomore Sam St. Hilaire (2-1) picked up the win. Ashlee Nodhturft went 4-for-4 with two singles, a double and a solo home run. Alyse Hasty had two singles, a home run and two RBI.

In game three, the Lady Statesmen fell to Barry University 8-2. Britni Adcox (3-3) took the loss for the Lady Statesmen. Ashlee Nodhturft recorded a pair of singles, while Amber Hass went 3-for-3 with three singles and one RBI.

The Delta State University Lady Statesmen will conclude play at the Charger Chillout on Saturday. At 10 a.m., DSU will face #23 Columbus State and at 12 p.m. DSU will square off with Wayne State. For more information, please contact the Delta State University Athletic Department at (662) 846-4300 or e-mail us at athletics@deltastate.edu.

 

February 17, 2006

LADY STATESMEN FALL 8-7 TO NOVA SOUTHEASTERN

CARROLLTON , Ga. – The Delta State University Lady Statesmen (6-4) dropped a heartbreaker 8-7 to Nova Southeastern University at the University of West Georgia Lady Braves Invitational on Friday.

The Lady Statesmen looked poised to cruise to an easy victory until the fifth inning Friday. Delta State held a 4-0 lead heading into the bottom of the fifth inning. Nova Southeastern would answer with five runs in the bottom of the inning to take a 5-4 lead. Both teams went scoreless in the sixth. The Lady Statesmen would plate three runs in the top of the seventh, but could not hold back the Lady Sharks in their half of the seventh. Leading 7-5, Delta State allowed three runs to hand NSU the win 8-5.

Sam St. Hilaire took the loss for the Lady Statesmen. Michelle Tuttle earned the win for NSU.

Bre Myers paced the Lady Statesmen at the plate. The Dunnellon, Fla. native went 2-for-4 with a double and three RBI. Alyse Hasty also posted a solid day with a home run, two runs scored and two RBI.

The Lady Statesmen return to action on Saturday in the second round of the UWG Lady Braves Invitational. For more information, please call the DSU Athletic Department at (662) 846-4300 or log on to www.gostatesmen.com.

 

FLORIDA SOUTHERN DOWNS DELTA STATE 3-0 AT UWG LADY BRAVES TOURNAMENT

CARROLLTON, Ga. - The Florida Southern College Lady Moccasins downed the Delta State University Lady Statesmen 3-0 behind the no-hit pitching performance of Megan Brown. FSC improved to 7-0, while DSU fell to 5-3 on the season.

Brown (7-0) baffled Lady Statesmen hitters for seven innings, while recording eight strikeouts. Delta State's Britni Adcox (2-2) took the loss after working seven innings allowing three earned runs on seven hits with two strikeouts.

The Lady Statesmen manage to get the potential tying run to the plate, but could not manage a hit in the seventh.

February 17, 2006

LADY STATESMEN SPLIT FIRST TWO AT UWG LADY BRAVES INVITATIONAL

CARROLLTON, GA. - With the threat of inclement weather approching western Georgia, the Lady Statesmen played their opening two games of the UWG Lady Braves Invitational today at UWG Field. The Lady Statesmen droppe game one 3-0 to Florida Southern College and rallied for a 6-2 victory over Indianapolis 6-2 in the second game. The Lady Statesmen will face Nova Southeastern at 5 p.m. today.

February 11, 2006

LADY STATESMEN EDGE #4 LADY CHARGERS 8-7

FLORENCE , Ala. - The Delta State University Lady Statesmen (5-2) softball team clawed back from a 7-1 deficit to claim an 8-7 victory over the fourth-ranked University of Alabama-Huntsville Lady Chargersin the final game of the UNA Lady Lion Classic. It was the second-straight come from behind win for Delta State.

“Our ladies would not be denied today,” said DSU head coach David Kuhn. “This was a total team victory and I am so proud of this team today!”

UAH jumped out to an early 7-1 lead in the second behind an offensive onslaught triggered by Jenny Hess’ two, two-RBI singles. Most teams would have folded the tents and cruised to the end of the game, not the Lady Statesmen. DSU would add a run in the bottom of the second after Amber Hass doubled and Sam St. Hilaire drove her in with an RBI single.

The Lady Statesmen would add two runs in the fifth to make it a 7-4 game. Delta State would add a run in the sixth to setup a wild seventh. Ashlee Nodhturft doubled to open the inning. Paige Wright followed with an RBI double of her own to right. Alyse Hasty would triple scoring Wright to tie the game at 7-7. Meredith Coleman, with one out, stepped to the plate and smashed the game-winning RBI single to left scoring Hasty. Final score Lady Statesmen 8 – Lady Chargers 7.

Britni Adcox (2-1) picked up the win in relief. Adcox worked 5.2 innings allowing only three hits with one walk and two strikeouts. Sage Woodham (1-1) took the loss for UAH.

The Lady Statesmen return to action next weekend at the University of West Georgia Lady Braves Invitational. For more information on the tournament, please call the DSU Athletic Department at (662) 846-4300 or log on to www.gostatesmen.com .

 

 

February 2, 2006

LADY STATESMEN CLAIM SEASON OPENING WIN VERSUS CAMERON, 6-4

SAN ANTONIO , Texas – The Delta State University Lady Statesmen (1-0) claimed a 6-4 season opening win over Cameron Universityin the St. Mary’s University Invitational in San Antonio. Sam St. Hilaire (1-0) went the distance to pick up the victory. The Turner, Maine native worked seven innings allowing four runs with three earned on seven hits.

Alyse Hasty went 4-for-4 with a triple and an RBI in the win, while Bre Myers went 3-for-4 with two RBI and a double.

The Lady Statesmen return to action versus St. Edward’s University later today.

Delta State 6, Cameron 4 (Feb 03, 2006 at San Antonio)
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Delta State ......... 201 030 0 - 6 12 1 (1-0) Cameron..............000 031 0 - 4 7 2 (0-1)
---------------------------------------------------------------------- Pitchers: Delta State - St. Hilaire. Cameron - J. Hutton; B. Stefinsky(6). Win-St. Hilaire(1-0) Loss-J. Hutton(0-1) T-1:40 A-50 Game: CU-DSU

 

 

February, 1, 2006

LADY STATESMEN PICKED TO WIN GULF SOUTH
WEST SOFTBALL TITLE

CLEVELAND - The Delta State University Lady Statesmen were picked to win a second consecutive Gulf South Conference West Division title by a vote of the league coaches on Tuesday. The Lady Statesmen fell one vote short of the University of Alabama-Huntsville Lady Chargers to claim the overall GSC title. UAH received six votes with DSU (5) and West Florida (4) rounding out the top three.

“We are excited about the preseason rankings, but you still have to play the games,” said DSU head coach David Kuhn. “Our ladies are ready to start the season and I am glad it’s finally here.”

The Gulf South Conference has named five Lady Statesmen to represent the GSC as members of the 2006 preseason Western Division softball team. Among the honorees were seniors Alyse Hasty (CF), Meredith Coleman (1B), Bre Myers (2B), and Ashlee Nodhturft (SS). Sophomore pitcher/outfielder Sam St. Hilaire rounded out the list for DSU. Hasty claimed the 2005 GSC West Player of the Year Award and is a favorite to claim the award again this season.

With the 2006 Softball season ready to begin, the Lady Statesmen have their eyes set on a second straight Western Division title and a run at the Conference title. Some of the top new comers to the Lady Statesmen and the Gulf South Conference are Amber Hass, a two position player, from Northeast CC; Torie Malone, a catcher from Northeast CC, and Brittany Tillery, a freshman outfielder, from Starkville.

The Lady Statesmen will begin the 2006 season this Friday, Feb. 3 at the St. Mary’s University Challenge in San Antonio, Texas.

 

November 22, 2005

NFCA NAMES DELTA STATE ’S VONDENSTEIN & DIXON SCHOLAR ATHLETES

Cleveland – Coach David Kuhn and the Delta State University Lady Statesmen softball team announced on Wednesday that seniors Brandi Vondenstein and Laura Dixon have been named National Fastpitch Coaches Association Scholar Athletes for 2005.

“We are very proud of Brandi and Laura’s accomplishments off the field,” said DSU head coach David Kuhn. “They are exceptional young ladies and I know they will continue to do great things in the future.” Kuhn added, “Our ladies work hard on the field and in the classroom. I hope this distinction helps to serve as an incentive for our team this year.”

Vondenstein graduated in May with a bachelor’s degree in Health, Physical Education and Recreation. Over her collegiate career, Vondenstein posted an impressive 3.86 GPA. The Crowley, La. native was a named twice to the All-GSC Academic Honor Roll. She played third base for the last two seasons after transferring from Northeast Mississippi Community College.

Vondenstein was a Second Team All-Gulf South Conference selection after help guide the Lady Statesmen to the West Division title and a berth in the GSC Tournament. In November, Vondenstein was awarded the Halbrook Award by the Mississippi Institutes of Higher Learning Board as the top female student-athlete at DSU. She is currently pursuing a master’s degree in Education and will serve as a graduate assistant coach for Kuhn this season.

Dixon graduated in May with a bachelor’s degree in Fashion Merchandising. The Brandon, Manitoba, Canada native pitched two seasons for Kuhn and the Lady Statesmen after transferring from Three Rivers Community College. Dixon was a named twice to the All-Gulf South Conference Academic Honor Roll.

In addition to the individual honors, the Delta State University Lady Statesmen finished the 2005 season with cumulative 3.09 GPA to rank in the NFCA Top-50 academic programs.

 

November 16, 2005

LADY STATESMEN ADD FIVE TO RECRUITING CLASS

CLEVELAND – Coach David Kuhn announced on Wednesday the signing of five ladies to the 2007 edition of the Lady Statesmen softball team. The signings conclude the recruiting season for Kuhn and his staff. All five ladies are expected to produce quickly for the program.

Jackie Stowe, a sophomore from Copiah – Lincoln Community college, signs with DSU after two seasons with the CLCC softball team. Originally from Hazlehurst, Stowe garnered All-Region, All-MAJC and All-State honors last year. She is also a very versatile player having played second and third base for the Lady Wolves. Stowe batted .387 with four homeruns and 28 RBI last year, while swiping 14 bases. “Jackie is an all-around athlete,” stated Kuhn. “She has good speed and can play anywhere on the field.”

Courtney Clark comes to Delta State from Little Rock, Ark. Clark prepped at Sheridan High School where she played catcher and first base. During her career at SHS, Clark garnered Southeast Arkansas’s Player of the Year honors in 2004 and also was awarded All-State accolades. Clark was a participant in the Arkansas Junior All-Star Game, where she batted .416. “Courtney is an outstanding hitter with good physical size, a blue collar player that fits into the DSU softball mold,” remarked Kuhn.

Chasey Niebrugge joins the Lady Statesmen after a two year stint at St. Petersburg Community College in Bonita Springs, Fla. Niebrugge garnered Second Team All-Suncoast Conference honors in 2005. As a shortstop, Niebrugge batted .297 with one homerun and 28 runs scored. She also finished with 22 RBI and 12 walks. “Chasey is a tremendous athlete and a even better defensive player,” remarked Kuhn. “She has only one speed and that is wide-open.”

Paige Silverthorn joins the DSU softball program from Sikeston High School in Sikeston, Mo. Silverthorn garnered First Team All-District as an outfielder for Sikeston High last season after batting .394 with eight RBI and 12 stolen bases. “Paige gives us a much need left hand hitter and she is an excellent outfielder/catcher as well,” stated Kuhn.

Brittany Eikner from Grenada is the final 2005 signee for the Lady Statesmen. Eikner was a First Team All-District infielder after batting .345 with eight runs and 11 RBI for Grenada High. “ Brittany is an all-around athlete with lots of experience,” remarked Kuhn. “Having played with some of the best athletes in Mississippi over the years, Brittany brings great leadership skills to the field, ended Kuhn.

The Lady Statesmen are schedule to start the 2006 season on February 3 at the St. Mary’s Invitational in San Antonio, Texas.

 

October 21, 2005

ONIONS OUT SLUG OKRAS TO SWEEP DOUBLEHEADER; CLAIM GREEN & WHITE SERIES 2-1

CLEVELAND – Reeling from a 14-6 defeat in game one of the annual Okras (Green) versus Onions (White) Softball Series, Lady Statesmen graduate assistant Brandi Vondenstein and guest coach David Price (CHS) ralled the Onions to a doubleheader sweep on Thursday at University Field. The Onions fried the Okra 13-5 and 10-5 to claim the annual series 2-1.

“We saw a lot of offense over the last three days and I hope that carries over into the spring,” stated DSU head coach David Kuhn. “I think the ladies learned a lot about themselves over the last few weeks and we are ready to get the season underway.”

In Game two of the series, the Onions used a grand slam by Amber Hass and a four-hit performance by Ashley Nodhturft to overpower the Okras. Nodhturft recorded a four-hit game with two singles, a double, and a home run. Randa Blenden was the winning pitcher, while Jenna Smart took the loss. The Green team showed some signs of brilliance, but couldn’t make the big play when guest coach Dana George needed it. Britany Tillery had a double and home run in the loss. Torie Malone added a two-run home run as well in the losing effort. Heather Greer also had a single and double for the Okras.

Game three was a mirror image of the first as the Onions pounced on the Okras 10-5. Sammy St. Hilaire baffled Okra batters for most of the game to earn the win, while Jenna Smart was saddled with the loss. The Onions were powered by Alyse Hasty’s three-run home run and A.J. Ratliff’s single and double. Bre Myers connected on a pair of home runs for the Okras, while Britany Tillery smashed her second home run of the day and added a double.

The Lady Statesmen will open the season February 3, 2006 at the St. Mary’s University Invitational in San Antonio, Texas. DSU will face Cameron University at 9 a.m., St. Edward’s University at 11:15 a.m. and Southeast Oklahoma State at 3:45 p.m. On February 4, 2006, the Lady Statesmen will conclude the SMU Invitational with Texas Women’s University at 9 a.m. and Abilene Christian University at 1:30 p.m. A complete schedule is available online at www.gostatesmen.com.

 

October 18, 2005

OKRAS SAUTEE ONIONS, 14-6, IN GAME ONE OF ANNUAL LADY STATESMEN GREEN & WHITE SERIES

CLEVELAND – Offense ruled the day in the opening game of the annual Green & White Series as the Okras sautéed the Onions 14-6 at University Field. Guest coach Dana George could be seen smiling for miles after her team pounced to an early lead behind the stellar play of her squad.

“The Okra played well tonight,” said George. Lady Statesmen head coach Dave Kuhn added, “Both teams gave it their all tonight, the Okras just found a little more offense.”

Meredith Coleman proved the power for the green machine. The senior first baseman from Schlater had five RBI on two home runs. Freshman Heather Greer had a pair of doubles, a single and two RBI. Tori Malone added a home run, a single and two RBI as well.

Okras starter Jenna Smart (1-0) claimed the win. Smart tossed six innings allowing six earned runs on eight hits with five strikeouts. Onions starter Sammy St. Hilaire (0-1) took the loss. St. Hilaire went 2.0 innings allowing seven hits and a few unearned runs. Reliever Randa Blenden pitched three innings allowing four earned runs with two strikeouts.

The Lady Statesmen softball team will cap their fall season with a double header on Thursday at University Field. Game time is set for 6 p.m. with the Okras leading the Onions 1-0 in the series standings.

 

October 13, 2005

LADY STATESMEN SOFTBALL SET FOR OKRA AND ONIONS SERIES

CLEVELAND - The Delta State University Lady Statesmen softball team will conclude their fall practice schedule next week with the annual Green (Okra) and White (Onions) series at University Field.

“We are very excited about the coming season and I know our ladies are looking forward to the Green and White series next week,” stated DSU head coach David Kuhn.

The squad will play game one starting at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, October 18. The Okras (Green) will be coached by Assistant Athletic Director and former Lady Statesman Dana George and Lady Statesmen assistant Joy Long, while the Onions (Whites) will be coached by Cleveland High head coach David Price and Lady Statesmen graduate assistant Brandi Vondenstein.

Between the games on Tuesday and Thursday, Delta State will play Copiah Lincoln Community College on Wednsday for a double-header starting at 2 p.m.

The Lady Statesmen will wrap up the series on Thursday with a games two and three starting at 6 p.m. Admission is free and everyone is invited to attend.

 

September 7, 2005

LADY STATESMEN SOFTBALL ANNOUNCES LONG HIRING

CLEVELAND – Over the past few years Coach David Kuhn has not only increased the talent and ability of his team, but he has also hired some of the top young coaches in America . In the last three years, Kuhn has seen two assistants hired as head coaches on the collegiate level and on Wednesday, Coach Kuhn introduced Joy Long as his next full time assistant.

“I am extremely excited about the addition of Joy Long to our staff,” stated Coach Kuhn. “Joy brings an awful lot to the table and I know the sky is the limit for her as a coach.” Kuhn added, “Joy was the definition of student-athlete while she played and I know she will be a great influence on our ladies.”

Long is no stranger to Delta State softball. The Oxford , Fla. native played for Coach Kuhn from 2001-2004 and she is also the most decorated player in the program’s history. Long was a four-time All-Gulf South Conference First Team selection at catcher. She was twice honored as a National Fast Pitch Coaches Association All-South Region pick. Known for her eye at the plate, Long holds the Delta State career records for hits (222), RBI (135) and games played (225).

Her long lists of accomplishments on the field do not stop there. Long was a Verizon Academic All-American and a three-time NFCA Scholar Athlete. Her honors include membership in the prestigious Phi Kappa Phi National Honor Society. She received her Bachelor’s degree in Education in Health, Physical Education and Recreation in 2004.

Coach Kuhn added that some of Long’s duties will include on-field coaching, recruiting and field maintenance.

 

June 9, 2005

LADY STATESMEN ADD THREE TO 2005 CLASS

CLEVELAND – Coach Davis Kuhn and the Delta State University Lady Statesmen softball announced the addition of three signees to the 2006 recruiting class on Thursday at Chadwick-Dickson Athletic Field House. Randa Blenden, Tori Malone and Amber Hass all signed NCAA National Letters of Intent and will join DSU in the fall.

“We are very excited about adding these ladies to our program,” stated DSU Head Coach David Kuhn . “They will be able to step right in and contribute next season.”

Randa Blenden is a 5-11 right-handed pitcher from Waco , Texas . She comes to Delta State from Jacksonville University in Jacksonville , Fla. Prior to her stint at JU, Blenden spent two years at Navarro ( Texas ) Junior College. As a sophomore at NJC she posted a 1.14 ERA in 87.2 innings en route to NJCAA Academic All-American honors. During her freshman season Blenden posted a 0.41 ERA in 116.0 innings pitched, while earning NJCAA Region XIV Second-Team accolades. She is the daughter of Robbie and Dawn Blenden. Blenden has two years of eligibility remaining and is planning on majoring in nursing at DSU.

Teammates Tori Malone and Amber Hass join DSU after playing two seasons at Northeast Mississippi Community College in Booneville for Coach David Carnell. Malone, a 5-7 catcher/designated player, batted .354 with six home runs and 35 RBI for the NECC Tigers this season. Malone is a native of Hernando and the daughter of Greg Malone and Paula Wages. Hass, a 5-7 first baseman/outfielder, is a native of Hamilton . Hass batted .361 with 12 home runs and 40 RBI for the Tigers this season. She is the daughter of Ronnie and Kay Hass.

 

May 12, 2005

FOUR LADY STATESMEN NAMED TO LOUISVILLE SLUGGER/NFCA ALL-REGION SQUAD

STARKVILLE, Miss. – The National Fast Pitch Coaches Association on Thursday announced the All-South Region team and the Delta State University Lady Statesmen placed four players on the squad. Delta State was represented by Alyse Hasty (OF) on the First Team, while Bre Myers (2B), Ashlee Nodturft (SS), and Lauren LaSuzzo (Catcher) made Second Team.

“This was truly an amazing year for us. It started very slowly, but these young ladies never gave up and deserve everything that comes their way,” stated DSU Head Coach David Kuhn. “I am excited about having Alyse, Bre and Ashlee back, but it is hard to replace what Lauren brought to the team. In fact, I’m not sure you can. She will be sorely missed.”

Hasty, a junior from St. Louis, Mo., led the Lady Statesmen to the 2005 Gulf South Conference West Division title and a spot in the GSC title game. Hasty set school records for single-season home runs (17), RBI (56), hits (81) and runs scored (55). She finished the season with a .395 batting average and the swift centerfielder was 31-of-31 in stolen base attempts.

On Wednesday, Hasty was named to the All-Gulf South Conference First Team and was selected as the 2005 GSC West Player of the Year. She has also garnered CoSIDA “Academic All-Region” honors after a stellar year in the classroom as well. Hasty will now be listed on the upcoming NFCA All-America ballot.

Myers made an immediate impact on the Lady Statesmen program in the fall with her willingness to play wherever she could help the team. The former junior college shortstop and Dunnellon, Fla. native proved that second base was her home away from home. Myers batted .343 for the season with 69 hits, five doubles, one triple, 16 home runs and 49 RBI. Her 16 home runs rank second all-time in DSU history and her 49 RBI rank third. Myers was a First Team All-GSC selection this year and she was also named to the All-GSC Tournament Team.

Nodhturft came back with a vengeance in 2005 after being sidelined with a broken wrist last season. The junior from Ocean Springs started all 67 games at shortstop for Coach David Kuhn. She finished the season with a .335 batting average, 77 hits, 20 doubles, one triple, 14 home runs and 53 RBI. She tied the school record for doubles in a season (Laura Simpson, 1998) and her 53 RBI rank second all-time in school history. She was named to the First Team All-GSC squad and was a 2005 GSC All-Tournament Team selection.

LaSuzzo, the lone senior on this list, started all 67 games this season at catcher for Delta State. In 67 games, the Monroe, La. native batted .346 with 73 hits, 13 doubles, one triple, seven home runs and 30 RBI. She was named to the All-GSC Second Team. On May 3, 2005 LaSuzzo was award the “Charles S. Kerg Senior Female Athlete of the Year Award” by the Athletic Department at DSU.

 

May 11, 2005

ALYSE HASTY NAMED PLAYER OF THE YEAR; LADY STATESMEN SWEEP ALL-GSC HONORS

CLEVELAND- The Delta State University Lady Statesmen (41-26) had an amazing turnaround and a record breaking year at the plate which led DSU to the 2005 GSC West Title and six Lady Statesmen being named to the All-Gulf South Conference First Team. Alyse Hasty, Ashlee Nodhturft, Sam St. Hilaire, Meredith Coleman and Bre Myers were all named to the First Team, while Lauren LaSuzzo was selected to the Second Team.

DSU Head Coach David Kuhn said, “I am pleased and excited for all our young ladies! They all had great years and deserve every thing that comes their way.” Kuhn added, “Their effort and desire helped us shatter most every offensive record in school history.”

Alyse Hasty had the greatest offensive year in the history of the Lady Statesmen program. The junior from St. Louis , Mo. was honored for that effort with the Gulf South Conference Player of the Year Award. Hasty batted .395 with 17 home runs and 56 RBI. She also tallied 81 hits with 55 and was 31-of-31 in stolen base attempts. Hasty broke the single season record for home runs (17), hits (81), runs scored (55) and RBI with 56. Hasty is currently fourth all-time in RBI with 107 and first in career runs scored (125) and home runs (24).

Sam St. Hilaire proved to be one of the top freshman pitchers/outfielders in the country this season. The freshman from Turner, Maine led the Lady Statesmen with a 21-7 record as a pitcher and batted .325 with 50 hits and 19 RBI. On Tuesday she was awarded with the Gulf South Conference Freshman of the Year Award and the GSC Pitcher of the Year Award. St. Hilaire recorded a 21-7 mark with an ERA of 2.64. In 188.1 innings pitched she struckout 101 opponents. St. Hilaire is the first player in Delta State softball history to receive the Freshman of the Year Award.

Meredith Coleman also garnered First Team All-GSC. The junior from Schlater batted .303 with nine home runs and 48 RBI and she was one of four Lady Statesmen to be named to GSC All-Tournament team. Coleman is currently third all-time with 111 RBI and second in career home runs with 24.

Bre Myers and Ashlee Nodhturft also garnered First Team All-GSC and GSC Tournament Team accolades this season. It is fitting to list the pair together, because Nodhturft and Myers anchored the top offensive middle infield in the GSC. Myers batted .343 with 16 home runs and 49 RBI. The Dunnellon, Fla. native’s 16 home runs rank second on the single-season records list, while her 49 RBI rank third. Nodhturft had a breakout year this season as she returned from a broken wrist in 2004. Nodhturft batted .335 with 14 home runs and 53 RBI. The Ocean Springs native recorded 77 hits with 20 doubles. The 77 hits and 53 RBI are the second most in school history, while her 14 home runs finished third. Nodhturft’s 20 doubles tied the school record for most doubles in one season (Laura Simpson, 1999).

Lauren LaSuzzo capped off a great senior year as she garnered Second Team All-GSC accolades. The senior from Monroe , La. hit .346 from the plate with seven home runs and 30 RBI. She had 73 hits and 13 doubles. The 73 hits rank third on the single season records list. LaSuzzo finished her career with 80 RBI which is good for 5th all-time in DSU softball history.

Coach David Kuhn was also awarded with Gulf South Conference Coach of the Year honors. He led the Lady Statesmen to a 22-6 conference mark and West Division Championship. In seven seasons Kuhn has amassed a record of 247-147. His 247 wins are good for eight all-time in GSC history.

 

May 8, 2005

LADY STATESMEN FALL TO LADY ARGONAUTS IN GSC CHAMPIONSHIP GAME

TUPELO- The Delta State University Lady Statesmen softball team (41-26) lost two heartbreaking games to the Argonauts of West Florida (54-4) 4-3 and 6-3 on Sunday afternoon in the Gulf South Conference Championship games at Veterans Park in Tupelo.

In the second game the Lady Statesmen were coming off a tough loss to UWF in the first game, 4-3, but got off to a hot start in game two as they scored two runs in the top of the first inning. Alyse Hasty had an RBI single scoring Bre Myers and Ashlee Nodturft to take a 2-0 lead.

West Florida scored two runs in the bottom of the second to tie the game at two until Alyse Hasty blasted a home run (17) over the center field fence to take a 3-2 lead in the third. The Argonauts scored two runs in the bottom of the third to take a 4-3 lead on a home run by Erin Olson.

West Florida would add a run in the bottom of the fifth and sixth innings to increase the lead to 6-3 to hold on for the victory. Sam St. Hillaire (21-6) took the loss for the Lady Statesmen as the freshman worked 2.2 innings while giving up four runs (two earned) on five hits. Amber Browning (26-3) picked up the win for West Florida tossing seven innings allowing three runs on five hits.

In the first game with West Florida, the Lady Statesmen could feel the trophy in the palm of their hands as the Lady Statesmen had the bases loaded in the bottom of the seven, down 4-3, but Hasty struck out swinging to end the game and force a rematch.

The Lady Statesmen got off to a fast start in this game as Coleman had a two run RBI double in the bottom of the first as DSU a early 2-0 lead, but the UWF came back with two runs in the top of the second to even at up at two a piece. The Argonauts scored two more runs in the top of the sixth on a two run home run by Natalie Manis, but the Lady Statesmen just would not give up. Nodturft had a RBI single which scored to score Vogel to cut the lead to 4-3 but that was close as the Lady Statesmen would come.

Kelly Stokes (9-4) took the loss in relief for DSU as the freshman tossed four innings allowing two runs on four hits. Sarah McGrah (11-3) picked up the win for UWF as she toosed 6 2/3 innings allowing three runs on six hits and Amber Browning came in the seventh to pick up the save (1). for DSU as the freshman

In the early game with Arkansas-Monticello, there is only one world you could describe this game and that would be dramatic. DSU scored four runs in the bottom of the seventh inning to seal a 4-3 victory. The Lady Statesmen were down 3-2 and ST. Hillaire was on second and Nodurft hit a triple down the right field line which scored Hilaire and Nodturft would end up scoring on a error to win another comeback game. Kelly Stokes (9-3, after UAM game) picked up the win in relief, as she tossed 2 2/3 innings allowing zero runs on three hits while striking out two. Ashley Burkett (11-7) took the loss for UAM as she tossed 6 2/3 innings allowing four runs on five hits.

Bre Myers, Meredith Coleman, Ashley Nodturft, and Kelly Stokes were named to the All Tournament team for their tremendous performances. The Lady Statesmen will now await the NCAA’s decision on whether they will make the South Regional Tournament, with selection coming on Monday. Please check www.gostatesmen.com for more info later on Monday.

 

May 7, 2005

LADY STATESMEN SHOCK #3 WEST FLORIDA 5-3 IN DAY TWO OF GSC TOURNAMENT; PLAY TOMORROW AT 11:00 a.m. WITH OPPONENT TO BE DETERMINED

TUPELO- The Delta State University Lady Statesmen softball team (40-24) inched a step closer to the GSC Championship by defeating #3 the Argornauts of West Florida (55-4) 5-3 this afternoon at Vertans Park in Tupelo.

Katie Wright hit a two-run home run (4) in the top of the fifth inning, as DSU took a 4-3 lead. Bre Myers (16) had a two-run home run (16) earlier in the inning to close the gap to 4-3. The home run by Myers tied her with teammate Alyse Hasty not only for the most home runs on the team but also for the single season record. It was a total team effort as these kids continued to defy the odds.

Kelly Stokes (8-3) picked up the win in relief for DSU as she tossed 5.1 innings allowing only three hits and striking out two. Browning (31-4) took the loss for West Florida as she pitched five innings while allowing four runs on seven hits. West Florida got on the board first as they scored three runs in the bottom of the second with on a three run home run, but they would be all they would muster against Stokes.

The Lady Statesmen got an insurance run in the top of the sixth, as Ashlee Nodturft connected on an RBI double to score Emily Randolph. That was all DSU would need, as Stokes shut them down the rest of the way.

The Lady Statesmen will now be in action Sunday morning at 11:00 a.m. with the opponent to be determined. If the Lady Statesmen win at 11:00 , they will play the championship game later on that afternoon. For more information on the tournament, please check www.gulfsouthconference.org

 

May 6, 2005

LADY STATESMEN COME FROM BEHIND TO DOWN LADY RIDER 8-6; ADVANCE TO GSC WINNERS BRACKET FINAL

TUPELO - The Delta State University Lady Statesmen dug deep to come-from-behind Friday night to defeat Southern Arkansas University, 8-6, at Veteran's Park. With the win the Lady Statesmen advance to the winners bracket final at 2 p.m. on Saturday versus the University of West Florida.

Trailing 4-3 to SAU in the top of the sixth, the Lady Statesmen put together five hits to score five runs to take an 8-4 lead into the bottom of the sixth. The big hits came on a two-RBI double by Lauren LaSuzzo and a two-run home run by Bre Myers (15).

Laura Dixon (11-10) worked six innings to pick up the win for the Lady Statesmen. Kayla King took the loss for SAU.

Ashlee Nodhturft went 3-for-4 with a two-run home run and a pair of singles. Alyse Hasty went 2-for-4 with three stolen bases.

DSU will face West Florida Saturday at 2 p.m. at Veteran's Park in the winner's bracket championship game. The winner of that game will advance to the GSC Championship game on Sunday.

 

May 6, 2005

LADY STATESMEN SMASH THREE HOME RUNS IN 7-4 WIN OVER VALDOSTA STATE; PLAY SAU AT 6PM

TUPELO – The Delta State University Lady Statesmen (38-24) used three home runs to defeat Valdosta State University, 7-4, in the first round of the Gulf South Conference Tournament Friday at Veteran’s Park. The Lady Statesmen will face the winner of the Southern Arkansas versus Alabama-Huntsville game Friday night at 6:00 p.m.

Sam St. Hilaire (21-6) tossed seven innings allowing four runs on seven hits to earn the win. Elska ten Hoope took the loss for the Lady Blazers.

VSU took an early 1-0 lead on Wendy Hollis’ RBI single scoring Jessie Ortiz, but the Lady Statesmen would answer with two runs on a two-run home run (13) by Bre Myers in the bottom of the inning. Myers would add a solo home run (14) in the third inning. Meredith Coleman added a solo blast (9) in the third as well.

The Gulf South Conference Tournament continues through Sunday at Veteran’s Park in Tupelo. Check back for more on game one and a complete game two wrap-up later Friday.

 

May 4, 2005

LADY STATESMEN LOOK FOR FIRST GSC TITLE SINCE 1992 IN TUPELO

CLEVELAND- The Delta State University Lady Statesmen (37-25, 22-6 GSC) are heading to Tupelo search of their first GSC Championship since 1992. The Tournament will be held at the Veterans Park Complex May 6-8. It is the 19 th time the Lady Statesmen have advanced to the GSC Tournament in the program’s history and the 10 th under Head Coach David Kuhn .

The Lady Statesmen will open tournament play against the Lady Blazers of Valdosta State University on Friday, May 6 at 2:00 p.m. The two teams are no stranger to one another. DSU and VSU faced off at the GSC Crossover in mid-April with the Lady Statesmen holding on for a 6-5 victory.

The Lady Statesmen, 2005 Western Division Champions, had one of the best turnarounds in the league with a 22-6 conference mark. The tournament is balanced from top to bottom with five teams in the running for NCAA Regional play. The East Division winner was No. 2 West Florida, while No. 11 Alabama-Huntsville finished second. North Alabama and Valdosta State finished third and fourth in the East respectively. The Lady Statesmen are the top seed from the West with Henderson State coming in second with Southern Arkansas and Arkansas-Monticello the third and fourth seeds respectively.

The Lady Statesmen had one of the greatest offensive years in the program’s history. DSU has connected on a school-record 65 home runs and 303 RBI. Alyse Hasty has broken single-season record with 16 home runs, 54 RBI, 74 hits and 51 runs scored. She passed teammate Meredith Coleman for most career home runs with 22, while Coleman has 21. Hasty is climbing the record for most career RBI as she currently has 105 which is good for third all time.

Ashlee Nodhturft with 13 home runs and Bre Myers with 12 have also had record-setting seasons. Nodhturft has a great opportunity to set the doubles single-season record. She currently has 19 and needs just one more to tie and two to break.

The pitching staff has come on of late with a team ERA of 2.94. Sam St. Hilaire (20-6) leads the rotation with a 2.44 ERA, 93 strike outs with 172 innings pitched. Laura Dixon (10-10) has rebounded from a slow start and finished the regular season with a 3.00 ERA while leading the staff in strikeouts with 110 in 123.2 innings pitched. Kelly Stokes may be the key to the Lady Statesmen pitching staff in the postseason. Stokes has posted a 7-3 mark with a 2.81 ERA. She has 24 strikeouts in 47.1 innings pitched.

he Lady Statesmen and Lady Blazers will collide Friday afternoon at 2:00 p.m. in Tupelo and you can catch all the action on the Statesmen Sports Network and live on the internet starting at 1:45 p.m. To access the broadcast, log on to www.gostatesmen.com and click on internet radio. There will also be “live stats” for each tournament game. To access this feature simply log on to www.gulfsouthconference.org for complete coverage.

 

May 3, 2005

HASTY GARNERS SECOND GSC PLAYER
OF THE WEEK AWARD

CLEVELAND- Alyse Hasty garnered her second Gulf South Conference Softball Player of the Week Award on Tuesday for the period ending May 1. The junior from St. Louis, Mo. led the Lady Statesmen to a series win in their final home series of the year versus the Lady Bucs of Christian Brothers University.

Hasty went five-of-six (.833) from the plate with two home runs and eight RBI. She also had two doubles, scored three runs and stole four bases on the weekend. With her two home runs, she increased her DSU single-season home run record to 16 and her RBI mark to 54.

Hasty and the Lady Statesmen will now gear up the 2005 Gulf South Conference Tournament May 6-8 at Veteran's Athletic Complex in Tupelo. The Lady Statesmen will open with the Lady Blazers of Valdosta State University at 2:00 p.m. on Friday. The game will be broadcast on the Statesmen Sports Network beginning at 1:45 p.m. There will also be "live stats" for each game on the conference tournament website. Log on to www.gulfsouthconference.org for more information.

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