Softball | April 10

DeKALB, Ill. – The Northern Illinois University softball team is ready to host Valparaiso in a non-conference doubleheader tomorrow at home.

WHEN AND WHERE
The doubleheader's start times are set for 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. at Mary M. Bell field tomorrow (April 11).

HOW TO FOLLOW
Each game will be shown on NIUTube on NIUHuskies.com, the Huskie all-access channel. Subscriptions are available for purchase on a daily ($6.95), monthly ($10.95) or annual basis and provides access to all home NIU Athletics events streamed on the website for the purchase period.

Come game time, live stats will be available for the contests as well.

THE HISTORY
One of NIU's oldest foes, NIU and Valparaiso first met in 1963. Since then, the Huskies lead the all-time series 31-14. NIU has beaten the Beacons in six of the last seven meetings with the most recent matchup going the Huskies' way on April 12, 2021. NIU racked up 15 hits, winning the home game 9-3.

LAST TIME OUT
The Huskies (17-17, 8-6 MAC) are coming off a series triumph over Kent State last weekend on the road in which NIU won two-of-three games. After falling in game one, NIU rebounded quickly, sweeping Saturday's doubleheader behind impressive pitching and defense. The Huskies allowed just three runs through the final two games.

In game two pitcher Claire Norred, pitching the final four outs, allowed no runs and just one hit to log her third save of 2023. In game three, Norred tossed a one-run, eight-hit complete game to improve her record to 4-1. She walked just two batters while striking out three en route to the win.

SCOUTING THE OPPONENT
Valpo (4-28, 1-12 MVC) holds the No. 11 spot in the Missouri Valley Conference with one league win thus far in 2023.

Regi Hecker paces the Beacons' offense batting .256 with 21 hits to her name. Also with 21 hits are Alexis Johnson and Taylor Herschbach.

Valpo utilizes five arms on its pitching staff with Easton Seib (3-13) leading the way. She owns a 5.62 ERA with 26 appearances in the circle.  

LOOKING AHEAD
Following Tuesday, NIU will stay home this weekend as it hosts Ohio for a three-game series Saturday and Sunday.

FOLLOW THE HUSKIES
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