April 4, 2003

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. - The Southeast Missouri State softball team (6-17, 2-1) will challenge the Austin Peay Lady Govs (13-16-1, 3-0). The three-game series will be this weekend at the Lady Govs Field in Clarksville, Tenn. starting at 1 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.

"The conference season is what we are concentrating on so that we can still be in the thick of things within the conference race," said Coach Richmond. "All three components, pitching, defense, and timely hitting is crucial for us to be successful."

The Otahkians are ready for another conference win after winning two of three games against Tennessee State last weekend. Sophomore Kelly Birk is currently leading the Otahkians hitting .298. Birk has had 14 hits including three doubles, six runs, and five RBI this season. Junior Jessica Hunter is leading the pitching staff with 4.33 ERA taking two wins and pitching 43.2 innings. The Otahks are currently ranked second in team batting in the OVC behind Tennessee Tech.

The Lady Govs are currently ranked first and undefeated in the Ohio Valley Conference. Senior Jenny Kelley is ranked in the OVC with 34 hits for the season and 9-11 stolen bases. Tara McCoy has coached for the Lady Govs the last four years.

The Otahkians will be on the road this week as they challenge Eastern Illinois in a doubleheader on April 9. The games will begin at 2 p.m. in Charleston, Ill.