April 21, 2003

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. - The Southeast Missouri State softball team (11-23, 7-6) will play host to the Eastern Illinois Panthers (9-28, 4-9) for a single game at 3 p.m. on Wednesday, April 23. The Otahkians split a doubleheader with the Panthers earlier this season at Charleston, Ill.

Tomorrow's single game will be used as a medium for the school, school groups, and general public to show their support for the troops. Donations can be brought to the field and will then be sent to a forward-deployed Marine Regiment. Donations can include monetary donations or supplies (see list below). Drinks and hot dogs will be available for those who give donations.

The Otahkians are coming off a two-game win against Morehead State in the three game series last weekend. Sophomore Kelly Birk is leading the Otahkians hitting .325 including four doubles, two triples, and a home run. Birk has had nine runs and credited with 18 RBI. Junior Jessica Hunter is heading up the pitching staff with a 3.21 ERA. Hunter has accumulated four wins and two shutouts. She has pitched 73 innings with 32 strikeouts.

The Panthers are coming off a three games series with Eastern Kentucky where they were only able to come away with one victory. Senior Carrie Ninness is leading the Panthers hitting .242, with seven runs, and two RBI. Senior Kristen Beckeris leading the staff with 2.50 ERA. Becker is credited with seven wins and two shutouts in 140 innings pitched. Lloydene Searle is in her sixth season coaching the Panthers.

The Otahkians will remain home for a doubleheader against Tennessee-Martin on Saturday, April 26. The game will begin at 3 p.m. at the Southeast Softball Complex. The final game of the three game series will be in Martin, Tenn. at 1 p.m. on Sunday, April 27.

Needed Items for the troops:

Fly swatters

Q-tips and soft paintbrushes

Unscented baby wipes

Batteries

Large Ziplock plastic bags

Sunblock

Desert camo bandanas

Lipbalm with sunblock

Coffee-in resealable package

Solar Showers (like for camping)

Notes of appreciation

Foot powder

Gatorade powder Snacks-(nothing chocolate that can melt; jerky is a favorite)