The Southern Illinois University (SIU) Salukis Women’s Softball team began their home season with two shutout victories against Valparaiso, winning 12-0 in five innings in the first game and 4-0 in the second. These games took place at Charlotte West Stadium in Carbondale, Illinois, where the Salukis regularly host their home contests as part of NCAA Division I competition and as members of the Missouri Valley Conference.
“Really liked the pitching performance today,” head coach Jen Sewell said. “Although I still don’t think we’ve thrown our best. We went with two true freshmen tonight to open. Not sure many clubs are doing that. And [Emily] Delgado had a really nice close.”
In the opening game, freshman pitcher Hailey Lucas delivered all five innings, limiting Valparaiso to one hit and no runs. The Salukis’ offense was active early, with players like Sage Grann, Emily Williams, Erin Lee, and Jordan Stewart each recording two hits. Stewart drove in four runs, setting a career high.
Maleah Blomenkamp walked three times while Sydney Potter walked twice during the first game. Junior Emily Williams hit her third home run of the season, extending SIU’s lead to double digits by the fourth inning.
“Super proud of the offense around our middle lineup’s hitters,” Sewell said. “I saw the work that hitters like Mal, Erin, Jordan, Amanda [Knutson], and Hayden [Kurtz] put in this week. Those hitters were really important today. Some really quality at bats out of them.”
Game two featured freshman Brooklynn Danielson starting on the mound and junior Emily Delgado closing out with four strikeouts over four perfect innings. Blomenkamp and Amanda Knutson each recorded two hits; Knutson added three RBI.
“I’m going to continue to ask us for cleaner defense but all in all, a great opening day,” Sewell said. “Great crowd and so happy to be home in front of our incredible fans.”
The team will aim for a sweep against Valparaiso on Saturday at Charlotte West Stadium.
The Salukis participate in NCAA Division I competitions (https://siusalukis.com/sports/softball) and are based in Carbondale, Illinois (https://siusalukis.com/sports/softball). The program is a member of both collegiate athletics and specifically competes within the Missouri Valley Conference (https://siusalukis.com/sports/softball).
Fans can follow updates about SIU Softball through social media channels including Twitter (@SIU_Softball), Facebook (Facebook.com/SalukiSoftball), Instagram (@SIU_Softball), or by downloading the “Salukis” mobile app available on major platforms.
