Illinois State softball split a doubleheader against Valparaiso on April 3, winning the first game 9-2 before dropping the second game 7-1 at Marian Kneer Stadium. The second game was called early due to weather conditions, including lightning and a tornado warning.
The results matter as they mark Illinois State’s 20th win of the season, continuing a five-year streak of at least 20 victories. However, the loss in game two ended their 20-game winning streak over Valparaiso.
In the opener, Bella Atkinson led Illinois State with two home runs and six runs batted in. Tatum Wolford contributed by scoring three runs and hitting a double. Julia Larson added two hits and two RBIs. Pitcher Paige McLeod secured her fourteenth win with a complete game performance, allowing only two earned runs on eight hits.
Valparaiso took an early lead in both games but Illinois State responded quickly in the first contest to secure victory. In game two, multiple weather delays interrupted play. After several stoppages for lightning and severe weather warnings, officials decided to call the game and revert to the last completed inning for the final score.
According to the official website, Illinois State Redbirds benefits from initiatives like the Redbird Athletics Excellence Fund that support competitiveness and recruitment efforts. The athletics program is linked to Illinois State University according to its official site and competes in NCAA Division I events across various regions according to its official site. The university also provides resources such as news updates, schedules, rosters, and fan engagement tools through its athletics website according to its official site. Student-athletes utilize facilities like OSF HealthCare Athletics Training Center for preparation according to its official site.
Next up for Illinois State is a conference doubleheader against Illinois-Chicago scheduled for Tuesday at Flames Field in Chicago.
