2009 Softball Game Notes
2009 Eastern Mic Michigan i hiiga an Un U University iv verrsi sity ty S ty Softball o tbal of tb bal a l Re Release ele leas a e
1
2009 Softball Schedule and Results Feb. 20-22 at USF “The Game” Tournament - Tampa, Fla. Feb. 20
vs. Albany
W, 8-0 (5)
at USF
L, 0-5
Feb. 21
vs. FAMU
W, 6-4
Feb. 22
vs. No. 22 Louisville
W, 3-2
Feb. 24
at Florida Gulf Coast (DH)
5 p.m.
Feb. 25
vs. Bethune-Cookman
2 p.m.
Feb. 25
at Central Florida
6 p.m.
Feb. 27-Mar. 1 at UCF Invitational - Orlando, Fla. Feb. 27 Feb. 28
vs. Villanova
9:30 a.m.
vs. Maine
1:30 p.m.
vs. Syracuse vs. Tenn. State
March 1
vs. Stony Brook
March 14
4 p.m. 9:30 a.m.
March 15
at Louisville
4 p.m.
vs. Minnesota
6 p.m.
vs. Illinois-Chicago
10 a.m.
vs. Ohio State
4 p.m.
vs. Ohio State
10 a.m.
March 20-22 at Highlander Classic - Radford, Va. March 20
vs. Harvard
March 21
vs. Toledo
Noon
vs. Radford
4 p.m.
Eagles continue 10-day tour of Florida Eastern Michigan at Florida Gulf Coast Eastern Michigan at UCF Round Robin
Feb. 24 Feb. 25 Feb. 25
at Florida Gulf-Coast (DH) 5 p.m. vs. Bethune-Cookman 2 p.m. at Central Florida 6 p.m.
Eagle Nation Storylines MID-WEEK ACTION FOR EAGLES: After going 3-1 at the USF “The Game” Tournament, the Eastern Michigan University softball team remains in Florida for four weekday games. First up for EMU is a doubleheader at Florida Gulf Coast, set for Feb. 24 at 5 p.m. The double dip marks the first time the Eagles of FGCU and Eagles of EMU have squared off. Eastern will then travel to Orlando, Fla., to take part in a three-team round robin at the University of Central Florida, Feb. 25. The Eagles will take on another first-time opponent in Bethune-Cookman at 2 p.m., before playing the host Knights at 6 p.m. EMU is 0-2 all-time against UCF.
2 p.m.
March 22
TBA
March 24
at Wright State (DH)
2 p.m.
March 27
MIAMI* (DH)
1 p.m.
March 28
BALL STATE*
2 p.m.
March 29
BALL STATE*
1 p.m.
April 1
at IPFW (DH)
3 p.m.
TBA
April 3
at Ohio* (DH)
1 p.m.
April 4
at Akron*
2 p.m.
April 5
at Akron*
1 p.m.
April 7
OAKLAND (DH)
3 p.m.
April 11
CENTRAL MICHIGAN*
2 p.m.
April 12
CENTRAL MICHIGAN*
1 p.m.
April 14
at Cleveland State (DH)
3 p.m.
April 15
at Michigan
6 p.m.
April 17
KENT STATE* (DH)
1 p.m.
April 18
BUFFALO*
2 p.m.
April 19
BUFFALO*
1 p.m.
April 24
at Western Michigan*(DH)
1 p.m.
April 25
at Northern Illinois*
2 p.m.
April 26
at Northern Illinois*
April 29
at Detroit (DH)
1 p.m. 3:30 p.m.
May 1
TOLEDO* (DH)
1 p.m.
May 2
BOWLING GREEN*
2 p.m.
May 3
BOWLING GREEN*
1 p.m.
Home games in BOLD CAPS - at Varsity Field * Mid-American Conference Game All times are site times
5-8
Eastern Michigan at FGCU, UCF and vs. Bethune-Cookman
11:30 a.m.
March 13-15 at Cardinal Tournament - Louisville, Ky. March 13
GAMES
2009 Softball Game Notes
HLETKO THROWS NO-NO: Junior pitcher Michelle Hletko started her junior season off with a bang, throwing the 11th no-hitter in EMU history against Albany, Feb. 20. Hletko struck out two while relying on a stingy defense to record the 8-0, five-inning victory. It was the first no-hitter thrown since Michelle Lloyd accomplished the feat, May 3, 2006, against the University of Michigan. TAKING DOWN THE BIG GUNS: The Eastern Michigan University softball team picked up a huge win against No. 22 Louisville at the USF “The Game” Tournament, Feb. 22. After scoring the first run of the contest off a Jennie Sherman sacrifice fly in the second inning, the Cardinals responded with a two-run fifth inning. The Eagles were able to regroup in the sixth when Jessica Patterson reached base safely off a throwing error by the U of L shortstop. Sophomore Stacie Skodinski then stepped up, ripping a home run to right field to score two runs and secure the win for EMU. Freshman pitcher Allison Scherer picked up her first win of the season, pitching 1.1 innings of scoreless relief, with Jaclyn Caro notching her first career save. Ironically, the Eagles’ last victory over a ranked opponent came March 26, 2006 against No. 21 Louisville. NO SOPHOMORE SLUMP FOR SKIDDY: Sophomore shortstop Stacie Skodinski, a 2008 MAC All-Freshman team selection, has started 2009 off on a tear. Through four games, the sophomore is hitting .769 with six RBI and at five extra-base hits. Skodinski has recorded multiple hits in all four contests this season, including a perfect 3-for-3 against Albany. ESCAPING THE NORTH: The Eagles’ annual spring trip takes the team to Florida for the beginning of the 2009 campaign. EMU will be in the Sunshine State for a stretch of 13 games in 10 days. The Eagles went 3-1 at the USF “The Game” Tournament, Feb. 20-22. EMU will participate in another tournament, the UCF Inviational, Feb. 27-March 1. In between the two tournaments, EMU will play a doubleheader at Florida Gulf Coast, as well as a three-team round robin at UCF with the Knights and Bethune-Cookman.
Contact: Sarah VanMetre, Graduate Assistant • 734.487.0317 • Fax: 734.485.3840 • Cell: 317.679.8228 • [email protected]
2009 Eastern Michigan University Softball Release
2 CAREER MILESTONE IN SIGHT: Junior outfielder Jenny Scherer is only one home run The University away from tying the career mark for home runs of 24 set by Lauren Clark. Just a junior, Scherer has belted 11 home runs during each of her first two seasons as an Eagle, givLocation Ypsilanti, Michigan ing her 23 after hitting a round tripper in the first game of the 2009 season against Founded 1849 Albany, Feb. 20. Enrollment 22,638 President
Dr. Susan W. Martin
Nickname
NEW LOOK EAGLES: The Eagles will feature quite a different look in 2009 than the 2008
Eagles season. EMU returns seven letterwinners from last year’s 15-30 team while welcoming Green (349) and White seven newcomers to the team. In addition to the new faces on the field, the dugout
Colors
Mid-American now features Nikki Denman, a former EMU great who has joined the coaching staff.
Conference
EMU Athletics Department Athletics Director
Dr. Derrick Gragg
Assoc. AD/Chief of Staff Assoc. AD/SWA
Doug Dowdy
Stephannnie Vandenberg
Assoc. AD/Administration
Mike Malach
Assoc. AD/Development
Craig Fink
Denman replaced Jennifer Teague, who is now the University at Buffalo head coach. MAC POLL: The Eastern Michigan University softball team was picked to finish sixth in the Mid-American Conference West Division, according to the annual coaches’ poll. Kent State was picked to repeat as both East Division and Tournament champions while Central Michigan was tabbed to win the West. Following Central on the West side was Ball State, Western Michigan, Northern Illinois, Toledo and EMU. In the East, Bowling Green was picked second, followed by Miami, Ohio, Akron and Buffalo.
Assoc. AD/Compliance Dr. Melody Reifel Werner
LONE SENIOR: To say that the 2009 team is a young squad would be an understateHead Athletic Trainer Steve Nordwall ment. Heather Han is the team’s only senior, with freshmen and sophomores accountStrength and Conditioning Mike Szerszen ing for 10 of the 14 members of the team. Assoc. AD/Media Relations
Jim Streeter
Asst. Director of SASS
Erin Burdis
EMU Softball Head Coach
SISTER, SISTER: This year’s squad will be a family affair, with sisters Jenny and Allison Scherer on the roster. The Scherer’s are only the second set of sisters to play for the Eagles and the first pair to play at the same time. The other sisterly duo was the twosome of Cari and Heidi Russell.
Karen Baird
Alma Mater
Adrian, 1994
EMU Record
112-172 (six years)
MAC Record
56-68
Office Phone
734.487.1031
Assistant Coach Alma Mater Office Phone Assistant Coach Alma Mater Home Field Capacity
Nikki Denman Eastern Michigan, 2006 734.487.2274
CONFERENCE TOUR: The Eagles will definitely get their share of different conferences this season, taking on opponents from 13 different conferences. EMU will square off against teams from America East (Albany, Maine, Stony Brook), Big East (South Florida, Louisville, Villanova, Syracuse), Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (FAMU, Bethune-Cookman), Atlantic Sun (Florida Gulf Coast), Conference USA (UCF), Ohio Valley (Tennessee State), Ivy League (Harvard), Big South (Radford), Horizon (Illinois-Chicago, Wright State, Detroit), Summitt (IPFW, Oakland) and the Big Ten (Minnesota, Ohio State, Michigan). The Eagles will also play an entire slate of MAC foes.
Eric Oakley
IT’S A CELEBRATION: Four members of the EMU softball team will celebrate their birthdays during the 2009 season. Jessica Patterson (2-27-88) and Jessica Richards Varsity Field (5-2-90) will turn a year older during the season, while Jenny Scherer and Stacie Skod500 inski (3-31-88) will celebrate on the same day. If the Eagles make it to the NCAA Tournament, Heather Han (5-17-87) will celebrate her birthday during the season as well.
Eastern Michigan
PLAYING THE BEST: As of Feb. 17, the Eagles will face several ranked foes during the 2009 season. The University of Michigan is currently the highest ranked opponent, EMU Media Relations coming in at No. 4 in both the ESPN.com/USA Softball and USA Today/NFCA polls. The Assoc. AD/Media Relations Jim Streeter University of Louisville is ranked 22nd in the ESPN poll, while coming in at No. 25 in the Assistant SID Greg Steiner USA Today poll. Ohio State is 23rd in the ESPN poll and receiving votes in the USA Today Softball Contact Sarah VanMetre survey. Office Phone
734.487.0317
Cell Phone
317.679.8228
Fax
734.485.3840
Email
[email protected]
Graduate Assistants Amanda Decker, Sarah VanMetre, Dan Wyar Student Staff Chris Puzzuoli and Amy Ziemak
Contact: Sarah VanMetre, Graduate Assistant • 734.487.0317 • Fax: 734.485.3840 • Cell: 317.679.8228 • [email protected]
2009 Eastern Michigan University Softball Release
3
2009 EASTERN MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY SOFTBALL ROSTER No.
Name
Pos.
B/T
YR.
Hometown-High School
2
Michelle Hletko
P
R/R
Jr.
Westmont, Ill.-Westmont
3
Sarah Gerber
C
R/R
Fr.
North Canton, Ohio-Hoover
5
Jaclyn Caro
P
R/R
So.
Chino, Calif.-St. Lucy’s Priory
7
McKenna Russ
OF
L/L
Fr.
North Canton, Ohio-Hoover
8
Jessica Patterson Utl
R/R
Jr..
Ionia, Mich.-Ionia
9
Jessica Richards
L/R
Fr.
Canton, Ohio-Jackson
OF
11
Kelsey Greene
P
L/R
Fr.
Burr Oak, Mich.-Burr Oak
13
Heather Han
C
R/R
Sr.
Lafayette, Ind.-McCutcheon
14
Jenny Scherer
OF
R/R
Jr.
Stow, Ohio-Stow-Munroe
15
Lauren Delapaz
IF
R/R
So.
Plymouth, Mich.-Canton
16
Allison Scherer
IF
R/R
Fr.
Stow, Ohio-Stow-Munroe
19
Kaylee Tolliver
IF
L/L
Fr.
Amanda, Ohio-Amanda Clearcreek
21
Stacie Skodinski
IF
R/R
So.
South Bend, Ind.-Washington
22
Jennie Sherman
Utl
R/R
Fr.
Ortonville, Mich.-Brandon
Head Coach: Karen Baird, seventh season Assistant Coach: Nikki Denman, first season Assistant Coach: Eric Oakley, third season
2009 MAC Standings West Division Team Overall E. Michigan W. Michigan N. Illinois Ball State C. Michigan Toledo
East Division Team Overall Bowling Green Kent State Buffalo Ohio Akron Miami
MAC
3-1 2-2 2-3 2-3 0-5 0-0
0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0
MAC
3-2 5-5 2-2 5-6 4-5 4-5
*As of Feb. 23, 2009
Head Coach Karen Baird In six years at the helm of Eastern Michigan University softball, head coach Karen Baird has transformed a program that won only six games in her first season to capturing a Mid-American Conference West Division and Tournament title in 2007. Under Baird, the Eagles have continually improved, becoming a mainstay atop the MAC. Baird, the 2007 MAC Coach of the Year, hit two personal milestones during the 2008 campaign, first hitting the 100-win plateau as the Eagle head coach during the 2008 season with a 1-0 win against Bucknell. Baird also won the 200th game of her 11-year coaching career during 2008, defeating San Diego, 1-0. Baird’s teams have also performed consistently in the classroom, finishing in the top 10 nationally in team GPA the past four seasons.
Year 2008 2007 2006 2005 2004 2003
Overall 15-30 27-22 28-28 17-24 19-30 6-38
Baird Over the Years Pct. MAC Record/Finish .333 6-12/5th MAC West .551 13-5/1st MAC West .500 14-8/3rd MAC West .415 11-12/4th MAC West .388 8-16/4th MAC West .136 4-17/7th MAC West
Contact: Sarah VanMetre, Graduate Assistant • 734.487.0317 • Fax: 734.485.3840 • Cell: 317.679.8228 • [email protected]
0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0
2009 Eastern Michigan University Softball Release
Michelle Hletko Junior Pitcher Westmont, Ill.-Westmont Record: 1-0 ERA: 1.08 Strikeouts: 5
2
Sarah Gerber Freshman Catcher North Canton, Ohio-Hoover Batting Avg: .167 Home Runs: 0
3
Jaclyn Caro Sophomore Pitcher Chino, Calif.-St. Lucy’s Priory Record: 1-0 ERA: 3.00 Strikeouts: 6
5
McKenna Russ
7
Freshman Outfield North Canton, Ohio-Hoover Batting Avg.: .143 RBI: 2
Jessica Patterson
8
Junior Utility Ionia, Mich.-Ionia Batting Avg.: .167 Home Runs: 0
Jessica Richards
9
Freshman Outfield Canton, Ohio-Jackson Batting Avg.: .000 Home Runs: 0
Kelsey Greene Freshman Pitcher Burr Oak, Mich.-Burr Oak Record: 0-0 ERA: 0.00 Strikeouts: 1
11
• Pitched the 11th no-hitter in EMU history in an 8-0 defeat of Albany (2-20-09) • Collected first career hit against Notre Dame (4-9-08) • Notched a career-best three strikeouts three times • Scored first career run against Oakland (4-30-08) • Has made 24 appearances in the circle • One of three Eagles who appeared in NCAA Regional • Collected first collegiate hit against Albany (2-20-09) • Has appeared in all four games, starting three times • Joins high school teammate McKenna Russ on EMU team • Will provide depth at catcher • Helped lead high school team to two state titles
•Picked up her first win of 2009 against Florida A&M (2-21-09) • Notched her first career save against No. 22 Louisville • Hit a home run in first collegiate game (Bucknell, 2-15-08) • Went 9-13 in 2008 in 31 appearances • Struck out seven batters on three separate occasions • Returns as EMU’s most experienced pitcher • Lone Californian on the team • Started all four games in the outfield • Notched two RBI against FAMU (2-21-09) • Joins teammate Sarah Gerber on the 2009 team • Scored winning run in 2008 state championship game to give her team the victory • Was part of two state championship teams in high school • One of two true left-handers on the team • Started all four games this season • Scored tying run after reaching base on an error to help EMU defeat No. 22 Louisville (2-22-08) • Has played in 54 games during her two-year career • Stole four bases in 2008, good for fourth on the team • Notched three doubles last season
• Started two games this season • Hit .439 during her senior year of high school • Will provide depth in the outfield • Named second team All-State in Ohio in 2008
• Made her EMU debut against USF (2-20-09) • Pitched two scoreless innings against Bulls • Holds MHSAA record for pitching three consecutive nohitters in 2007 • In high school, racked up 1,030 strikeouts and 101 pitching victories • Also had 42 doubles and 20 triples over high school career
Contact: Sarah VanMetre, Graduate Assistant • 734.487.0317 • Fax: 734.485.3840 • Cell: 317.679.8228 • [email protected]
4
2009 Eastern Michigan University Softball Release
5
Heather Han
13
Senior Catcher Lafayette, Ind.-McCutcheon Batting Avg: .444 Home Runs: 0
Jenny Scherer
14
Junior Outfield Stow, Ohio-Stow-Munroe Batting Avg.: .400 Home Runs: 1
Lauren Delapaz
15
Sophomore Infield Plymouth, Mich.-Canton Batting Avg.: .300 RBI: 2
Allison Scherer
16
Freshman Infield/Pitcher Stow, Ohio-Stow-Munroe Batting Avg.: .200 Home Runs: 0 Record: 1-1
Kaylee Tolliver
19
Freshman Infield Amanda, Ohio-Amanda Clearcreek Batting Avg: .143 Home Runs: 0
Stacie Skodinski
21
Sophomore Infield South Bend, Ind.-Washington Batting Avg: .769 Home Runs: 1
Jennie Sherman
22
Freshman Utility Ortonville, Mich.-Brandon Batting Avg: .000 Home Runs: 0
• Has started all four games this season • Went 2-for-3 against FAMU (2-21-09) • 2006 All-MAC freshman team selection • Two-time MAC Player of the Week honoree • Played in every game the past two seasons (2007, 2008) • Career .241 hitter with nine home runs and 58 RBI
• Has 23 career home runs after hitting on against Albany (2-20-09); now one away from tying all-time record • 2008 All-MAC second team pick • 2007 All-MAC first team and all-freshman team selection • Second on season single list for home runs (11) • Only player in EMU history to hit for the cycle • Sister, Allison, joins her on the team for 2009 season • Had seventh multi-hit game of her career against No. 22 Louisville (2-22-09) • Played six different positions in 2008 • Appeared in 37 games with a .240 batting average • Hit first career home run against Ball State (4-25-08) • Totaled six multi-hit games in 2008
• Secured first collegiate win in the circle against No. 22 Louisville (2-22-09), pitching 1.1 innings of relief • Picked up first hit against Albany (2-20-09) • Joins sister, Jenny, on the 2009 team • All-State selection following senior year of high school • Four-time all-conference selection
• Started three games at first base • Picked up first career hit against No. 22 Louisville (2-22-09) • Holds high school records for batting average and home runs in a career • Three-time all-conference pick
• Hit game-winning two-run home run against No. 22 Louisville (2-22-09) • Has four multi-hit games in 2009 • 2008 All-MAC freshman team selection • Hit .264 in 2008 with three home runs and 12 RBI • Part of ASA Regional team that took on Team USA
• Had RBI sacrifice fly in 3-2 win against No. 22 Louisville (2-22-09) • Made two appearances in 2009, starting once • Four-time all-conference selection in high school • Picked to all-district and all-county teams three times • Hit .485 during her last high school season • Named all-state after hitting .444 during sophomore year
Contact: Sarah VanMetre, Graduate Assistant • 734.487.0317 • Fax: 734.485.3840 • Cell: 317.679.8228 • [email protected]
2009 Eastern Michigan University Softball Release
6
2009 Eastern Michigan University Softball Overall Statistics Eastern Michigan University Overall Statistics for Eastern Michigan (as of Feb 23, 2009) (All games Sorted by Batting avg) Record: 3-1 Player
avg gp-gs
21 SKODINSKI, Sta 13 HAN, Heather 14 SCHERER, Jenny 15 DELAPAZ, Lauren 5 CARO, Jaclyn 16 SCHERER, Allison 8 PATTERSON, Jess 3 GERBER, Sarah 7 RUSS, McKenna 19 TOLLIVER, Kayle 9 RICHARDS, Jessic 22 SHERMAN, Jenni -------------------2 HLETKO, Michelle
.7 6 9 . 444 .400 . 300 .2 5 0 . 200 .167 . 167 .1 4 3 . 143 .0 0 0 . 000
4-4 4-4 4-3 4-4 2-2 3-2 4-4 4-3 4-4 3-3 3-2 2-1
Home: 0-0 h
Away: 0-1
ab
r
13 9 10 10 4 5 12 6 14 7 5 3
3 10 1 4 3 4 2 3 0 1 1 1 2 2 1 1 3 2 0 1 1 0 0 0
2b 3b hr
4 0 1 0 0 1 0 1 0 1 0 0
0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0
1 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
rbi
Neutral: 3-0
tb slg%
Mid-American: 0-0
bb hp
6 17 1.308 0 4 . 444 3 8 .8 0 0 2 3 . 300 0 1 .2 5 0 0 2 . 400 1 2 .1 6 7 0 2 . 333 2 4 .2 8 6 0 2 . 286 0 0 .0 0 0 1 0 . 000
0 2 1 2 0 0 0 1 0 2 1 0
0 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 0
so gdp
ob% sf sh sb-att
0 1 2 2 0 3 2 1 8 0 4 2
0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
.769 . 583 .500 . 417 .250 . 200 .167 . 286 .200 . 400 .167 . 000
0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1
0 1 0 0 3 0 2 1 0 0 0 1
0-0 0-0 1-1 1-1 0-0 0-0 1-1 0-0 0-0 0-0 1-2 0-0
po
a
8
8
e fld% 3 .842
10
6
0 1.000
7
1
0 1.000
7
10
1 .944
6
0
0 1.000
0
2
0 1.000
1
0
0 1.000
8
4
0 1.000
5
0
0 1.000
21
1
1 .957
5
2
0 1.000
0
0
0 .000
. 000
1-1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
. 000
0
0
0
0
. 000
0
0
0-0
0
0
0 .000
Totals
.296
4
98
17
29
8
1
2
15
45
.459
9
4
25
0
.375
1
8
4-5
78
34
5 .957
Opponents
.176
4
91
11
16
4
1
0
8
22
.242
14
2
14
0
.299
0
3
7-9
78
37
6 .950
LOB - Team (25), Opp (21). DPs turned - Team (1).
(All games Sorted by Earned run avg) Player
era
w-l
cg
sho
sv
ip
h
r
er
bb
so
2b
3b
0. 00 1. 08 3. 0 0 5. 53
0-0 1-0 1-0 1-1
1 3 2 2
1 2 1 0
0 1 0 0
0/0 1/0 0/0 0/0
0 0 1 0
2.0 13.0 4.2 6.1
1 5 3 7
0 2 4 5
0 2 2 5
1 6 2 5
1 5 6 2
0 4 0 0
0 0 0 1
0 0 0 0
.167 . 119 .167 . 280
0 0 0 1
0 1 0 1
0 0 0 0
0 0 0 0
0 2 0 1
Totals
2.42
3-1
4
4
1
1/0
1
26.0
16
11
9
14
14
4
1
0
.176
1
2
0
0
3
Opponents
3.50
1-3
4
4
1
1/1
0
26.0
29
17
13
9
25
8
1
2
.296
0
4
1
1
8
11 GREENE, Kelsey 2 HLETKO, Michelle 5 CARO, Jaclyn 16 SCHERER, Allison
app gs
hr b/avg wp hp bk sfa sha
PB - Team (1), HAN 1. SBA/ATT - HAN (5-6), SCHERER, A. (5-5), GERBER (2-3), CARO (1-2), HLETKO (1-1), GREENE (0-1).
Contact: Sarah VanMetre, Graduate Assistant • 734.487.0317 • Fax: 734.485.3840 • Cell: 317.679.8228 • [email protected]
1
2009 Softball Schedule and Results Feb. 20-22 at USF “The Game” Tournament - Tampa, Fla. Feb. 20
vs. Albany
W, 8-0 (5)
at USF
L, 0-5
Feb. 21
vs. FAMU
W, 6-4
Feb. 22
vs. No. 22 Louisville
W, 3-2
Feb. 24
at Florida Gulf Coast (DH)
5 p.m.
Feb. 25
vs. Bethune-Cookman
2 p.m.
Feb. 25
at Central Florida
6 p.m.
Feb. 27-Mar. 1 at UCF Invitational - Orlando, Fla. Feb. 27 Feb. 28
vs. Villanova
9:30 a.m.
vs. Maine
1:30 p.m.
vs. Syracuse vs. Tenn. State
March 1
vs. Stony Brook
March 14
4 p.m. 9:30 a.m.
March 15
at Louisville
4 p.m.
vs. Minnesota
6 p.m.
vs. Illinois-Chicago
10 a.m.
vs. Ohio State
4 p.m.
vs. Ohio State
10 a.m.
March 20-22 at Highlander Classic - Radford, Va. March 20
vs. Harvard
March 21
vs. Toledo
Noon
vs. Radford
4 p.m.
Eagles continue 10-day tour of Florida Eastern Michigan at Florida Gulf Coast Eastern Michigan at UCF Round Robin
Feb. 24 Feb. 25 Feb. 25
at Florida Gulf-Coast (DH) 5 p.m. vs. Bethune-Cookman 2 p.m. at Central Florida 6 p.m.
Eagle Nation Storylines MID-WEEK ACTION FOR EAGLES: After going 3-1 at the USF “The Game” Tournament, the Eastern Michigan University softball team remains in Florida for four weekday games. First up for EMU is a doubleheader at Florida Gulf Coast, set for Feb. 24 at 5 p.m. The double dip marks the first time the Eagles of FGCU and Eagles of EMU have squared off. Eastern will then travel to Orlando, Fla., to take part in a three-team round robin at the University of Central Florida, Feb. 25. The Eagles will take on another first-time opponent in Bethune-Cookman at 2 p.m., before playing the host Knights at 6 p.m. EMU is 0-2 all-time against UCF.
2 p.m.
March 22
TBA
March 24
at Wright State (DH)
2 p.m.
March 27
MIAMI* (DH)
1 p.m.
March 28
BALL STATE*
2 p.m.
March 29
BALL STATE*
1 p.m.
April 1
at IPFW (DH)
3 p.m.
TBA
April 3
at Ohio* (DH)
1 p.m.
April 4
at Akron*
2 p.m.
April 5
at Akron*
1 p.m.
April 7
OAKLAND (DH)
3 p.m.
April 11
CENTRAL MICHIGAN*
2 p.m.
April 12
CENTRAL MICHIGAN*
1 p.m.
April 14
at Cleveland State (DH)
3 p.m.
April 15
at Michigan
6 p.m.
April 17
KENT STATE* (DH)
1 p.m.
April 18
BUFFALO*
2 p.m.
April 19
BUFFALO*
1 p.m.
April 24
at Western Michigan*(DH)
1 p.m.
April 25
at Northern Illinois*
2 p.m.
April 26
at Northern Illinois*
April 29
at Detroit (DH)
1 p.m. 3:30 p.m.
May 1
TOLEDO* (DH)
1 p.m.
May 2
BOWLING GREEN*
2 p.m.
May 3
BOWLING GREEN*
1 p.m.
Home games in BOLD CAPS - at Varsity Field * Mid-American Conference Game All times are site times
5-8
Eastern Michigan at FGCU, UCF and vs. Bethune-Cookman
11:30 a.m.
March 13-15 at Cardinal Tournament - Louisville, Ky. March 13
GAMES
2009 Softball Game Notes
HLETKO THROWS NO-NO: Junior pitcher Michelle Hletko started her junior season off with a bang, throwing the 11th no-hitter in EMU history against Albany, Feb. 20. Hletko struck out two while relying on a stingy defense to record the 8-0, five-inning victory. It was the first no-hitter thrown since Michelle Lloyd accomplished the feat, May 3, 2006, against the University of Michigan. TAKING DOWN THE BIG GUNS: The Eastern Michigan University softball team picked up a huge win against No. 22 Louisville at the USF “The Game” Tournament, Feb. 22. After scoring the first run of the contest off a Jennie Sherman sacrifice fly in the second inning, the Cardinals responded with a two-run fifth inning. The Eagles were able to regroup in the sixth when Jessica Patterson reached base safely off a throwing error by the U of L shortstop. Sophomore Stacie Skodinski then stepped up, ripping a home run to right field to score two runs and secure the win for EMU. Freshman pitcher Allison Scherer picked up her first win of the season, pitching 1.1 innings of scoreless relief, with Jaclyn Caro notching her first career save. Ironically, the Eagles’ last victory over a ranked opponent came March 26, 2006 against No. 21 Louisville. NO SOPHOMORE SLUMP FOR SKIDDY: Sophomore shortstop Stacie Skodinski, a 2008 MAC All-Freshman team selection, has started 2009 off on a tear. Through four games, the sophomore is hitting .769 with six RBI and at five extra-base hits. Skodinski has recorded multiple hits in all four contests this season, including a perfect 3-for-3 against Albany. ESCAPING THE NORTH: The Eagles’ annual spring trip takes the team to Florida for the beginning of the 2009 campaign. EMU will be in the Sunshine State for a stretch of 13 games in 10 days. The Eagles went 3-1 at the USF “The Game” Tournament, Feb. 20-22. EMU will participate in another tournament, the UCF Inviational, Feb. 27-March 1. In between the two tournaments, EMU will play a doubleheader at Florida Gulf Coast, as well as a three-team round robin at UCF with the Knights and Bethune-Cookman.
Contact: Sarah VanMetre, Graduate Assistant • 734.487.0317 • Fax: 734.485.3840 • Cell: 317.679.8228 • [email protected]
2009 Eastern Michigan University Softball Release
2 CAREER MILESTONE IN SIGHT: Junior outfielder Jenny Scherer is only one home run The University away from tying the career mark for home runs of 24 set by Lauren Clark. Just a junior, Scherer has belted 11 home runs during each of her first two seasons as an Eagle, givLocation Ypsilanti, Michigan ing her 23 after hitting a round tripper in the first game of the 2009 season against Founded 1849 Albany, Feb. 20. Enrollment 22,638 President
Dr. Susan W. Martin
Nickname
NEW LOOK EAGLES: The Eagles will feature quite a different look in 2009 than the 2008
Eagles season. EMU returns seven letterwinners from last year’s 15-30 team while welcoming Green (349) and White seven newcomers to the team. In addition to the new faces on the field, the dugout
Colors
Mid-American now features Nikki Denman, a former EMU great who has joined the coaching staff.
Conference
EMU Athletics Department Athletics Director
Dr. Derrick Gragg
Assoc. AD/Chief of Staff Assoc. AD/SWA
Doug Dowdy
Stephannnie Vandenberg
Assoc. AD/Administration
Mike Malach
Assoc. AD/Development
Craig Fink
Denman replaced Jennifer Teague, who is now the University at Buffalo head coach. MAC POLL: The Eastern Michigan University softball team was picked to finish sixth in the Mid-American Conference West Division, according to the annual coaches’ poll. Kent State was picked to repeat as both East Division and Tournament champions while Central Michigan was tabbed to win the West. Following Central on the West side was Ball State, Western Michigan, Northern Illinois, Toledo and EMU. In the East, Bowling Green was picked second, followed by Miami, Ohio, Akron and Buffalo.
Assoc. AD/Compliance Dr. Melody Reifel Werner
LONE SENIOR: To say that the 2009 team is a young squad would be an understateHead Athletic Trainer Steve Nordwall ment. Heather Han is the team’s only senior, with freshmen and sophomores accountStrength and Conditioning Mike Szerszen ing for 10 of the 14 members of the team. Assoc. AD/Media Relations
Jim Streeter
Asst. Director of SASS
Erin Burdis
EMU Softball Head Coach
SISTER, SISTER: This year’s squad will be a family affair, with sisters Jenny and Allison Scherer on the roster. The Scherer’s are only the second set of sisters to play for the Eagles and the first pair to play at the same time. The other sisterly duo was the twosome of Cari and Heidi Russell.
Karen Baird
Alma Mater
Adrian, 1994
EMU Record
112-172 (six years)
MAC Record
56-68
Office Phone
734.487.1031
Assistant Coach Alma Mater Office Phone Assistant Coach Alma Mater Home Field Capacity
Nikki Denman Eastern Michigan, 2006 734.487.2274
CONFERENCE TOUR: The Eagles will definitely get their share of different conferences this season, taking on opponents from 13 different conferences. EMU will square off against teams from America East (Albany, Maine, Stony Brook), Big East (South Florida, Louisville, Villanova, Syracuse), Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (FAMU, Bethune-Cookman), Atlantic Sun (Florida Gulf Coast), Conference USA (UCF), Ohio Valley (Tennessee State), Ivy League (Harvard), Big South (Radford), Horizon (Illinois-Chicago, Wright State, Detroit), Summitt (IPFW, Oakland) and the Big Ten (Minnesota, Ohio State, Michigan). The Eagles will also play an entire slate of MAC foes.
Eric Oakley
IT’S A CELEBRATION: Four members of the EMU softball team will celebrate their birthdays during the 2009 season. Jessica Patterson (2-27-88) and Jessica Richards Varsity Field (5-2-90) will turn a year older during the season, while Jenny Scherer and Stacie Skod500 inski (3-31-88) will celebrate on the same day. If the Eagles make it to the NCAA Tournament, Heather Han (5-17-87) will celebrate her birthday during the season as well.
Eastern Michigan
PLAYING THE BEST: As of Feb. 17, the Eagles will face several ranked foes during the 2009 season. The University of Michigan is currently the highest ranked opponent, EMU Media Relations coming in at No. 4 in both the ESPN.com/USA Softball and USA Today/NFCA polls. The Assoc. AD/Media Relations Jim Streeter University of Louisville is ranked 22nd in the ESPN poll, while coming in at No. 25 in the Assistant SID Greg Steiner USA Today poll. Ohio State is 23rd in the ESPN poll and receiving votes in the USA Today Softball Contact Sarah VanMetre survey. Office Phone
734.487.0317
Cell Phone
317.679.8228
Fax
734.485.3840
[email protected]
Graduate Assistants Amanda Decker, Sarah VanMetre, Dan Wyar Student Staff Chris Puzzuoli and Amy Ziemak
Contact: Sarah VanMetre, Graduate Assistant • 734.487.0317 • Fax: 734.485.3840 • Cell: 317.679.8228 • [email protected]
2009 Eastern Michigan University Softball Release
3
2009 EASTERN MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY SOFTBALL ROSTER No.
Name
Pos.
B/T
YR.
Hometown-High School
2
Michelle Hletko
P
R/R
Jr.
Westmont, Ill.-Westmont
3
Sarah Gerber
C
R/R
Fr.
North Canton, Ohio-Hoover
5
Jaclyn Caro
P
R/R
So.
Chino, Calif.-St. Lucy’s Priory
7
McKenna Russ
OF
L/L
Fr.
North Canton, Ohio-Hoover
8
Jessica Patterson Utl
R/R
Jr..
Ionia, Mich.-Ionia
9
Jessica Richards
L/R
Fr.
Canton, Ohio-Jackson
OF
11
Kelsey Greene
P
L/R
Fr.
Burr Oak, Mich.-Burr Oak
13
Heather Han
C
R/R
Sr.
Lafayette, Ind.-McCutcheon
14
Jenny Scherer
OF
R/R
Jr.
Stow, Ohio-Stow-Munroe
15
Lauren Delapaz
IF
R/R
So.
Plymouth, Mich.-Canton
16
Allison Scherer
IF
R/R
Fr.
Stow, Ohio-Stow-Munroe
19
Kaylee Tolliver
IF
L/L
Fr.
Amanda, Ohio-Amanda Clearcreek
21
Stacie Skodinski
IF
R/R
So.
South Bend, Ind.-Washington
22
Jennie Sherman
Utl
R/R
Fr.
Ortonville, Mich.-Brandon
Head Coach: Karen Baird, seventh season Assistant Coach: Nikki Denman, first season Assistant Coach: Eric Oakley, third season
2009 MAC Standings West Division Team Overall E. Michigan W. Michigan N. Illinois Ball State C. Michigan Toledo
East Division Team Overall Bowling Green Kent State Buffalo Ohio Akron Miami
MAC
3-1 2-2 2-3 2-3 0-5 0-0
0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0
MAC
3-2 5-5 2-2 5-6 4-5 4-5
*As of Feb. 23, 2009
Head Coach Karen Baird In six years at the helm of Eastern Michigan University softball, head coach Karen Baird has transformed a program that won only six games in her first season to capturing a Mid-American Conference West Division and Tournament title in 2007. Under Baird, the Eagles have continually improved, becoming a mainstay atop the MAC. Baird, the 2007 MAC Coach of the Year, hit two personal milestones during the 2008 campaign, first hitting the 100-win plateau as the Eagle head coach during the 2008 season with a 1-0 win against Bucknell. Baird also won the 200th game of her 11-year coaching career during 2008, defeating San Diego, 1-0. Baird’s teams have also performed consistently in the classroom, finishing in the top 10 nationally in team GPA the past four seasons.
Year 2008 2007 2006 2005 2004 2003
Overall 15-30 27-22 28-28 17-24 19-30 6-38
Baird Over the Years Pct. MAC Record/Finish .333 6-12/5th MAC West .551 13-5/1st MAC West .500 14-8/3rd MAC West .415 11-12/4th MAC West .388 8-16/4th MAC West .136 4-17/7th MAC West
Contact: Sarah VanMetre, Graduate Assistant • 734.487.0317 • Fax: 734.485.3840 • Cell: 317.679.8228 • [email protected]
0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0
2009 Eastern Michigan University Softball Release
Michelle Hletko Junior Pitcher Westmont, Ill.-Westmont Record: 1-0 ERA: 1.08 Strikeouts: 5
2
Sarah Gerber Freshman Catcher North Canton, Ohio-Hoover Batting Avg: .167 Home Runs: 0
3
Jaclyn Caro Sophomore Pitcher Chino, Calif.-St. Lucy’s Priory Record: 1-0 ERA: 3.00 Strikeouts: 6
5
McKenna Russ
7
Freshman Outfield North Canton, Ohio-Hoover Batting Avg.: .143 RBI: 2
Jessica Patterson
8
Junior Utility Ionia, Mich.-Ionia Batting Avg.: .167 Home Runs: 0
Jessica Richards
9
Freshman Outfield Canton, Ohio-Jackson Batting Avg.: .000 Home Runs: 0
Kelsey Greene Freshman Pitcher Burr Oak, Mich.-Burr Oak Record: 0-0 ERA: 0.00 Strikeouts: 1
11
• Pitched the 11th no-hitter in EMU history in an 8-0 defeat of Albany (2-20-09) • Collected first career hit against Notre Dame (4-9-08) • Notched a career-best three strikeouts three times • Scored first career run against Oakland (4-30-08) • Has made 24 appearances in the circle • One of three Eagles who appeared in NCAA Regional • Collected first collegiate hit against Albany (2-20-09) • Has appeared in all four games, starting three times • Joins high school teammate McKenna Russ on EMU team • Will provide depth at catcher • Helped lead high school team to two state titles
•Picked up her first win of 2009 against Florida A&M (2-21-09) • Notched her first career save against No. 22 Louisville • Hit a home run in first collegiate game (Bucknell, 2-15-08) • Went 9-13 in 2008 in 31 appearances • Struck out seven batters on three separate occasions • Returns as EMU’s most experienced pitcher • Lone Californian on the team • Started all four games in the outfield • Notched two RBI against FAMU (2-21-09) • Joins teammate Sarah Gerber on the 2009 team • Scored winning run in 2008 state championship game to give her team the victory • Was part of two state championship teams in high school • One of two true left-handers on the team • Started all four games this season • Scored tying run after reaching base on an error to help EMU defeat No. 22 Louisville (2-22-08) • Has played in 54 games during her two-year career • Stole four bases in 2008, good for fourth on the team • Notched three doubles last season
• Started two games this season • Hit .439 during her senior year of high school • Will provide depth in the outfield • Named second team All-State in Ohio in 2008
• Made her EMU debut against USF (2-20-09) • Pitched two scoreless innings against Bulls • Holds MHSAA record for pitching three consecutive nohitters in 2007 • In high school, racked up 1,030 strikeouts and 101 pitching victories • Also had 42 doubles and 20 triples over high school career
Contact: Sarah VanMetre, Graduate Assistant • 734.487.0317 • Fax: 734.485.3840 • Cell: 317.679.8228 • [email protected]
4
2009 Eastern Michigan University Softball Release
5
Heather Han
13
Senior Catcher Lafayette, Ind.-McCutcheon Batting Avg: .444 Home Runs: 0
Jenny Scherer
14
Junior Outfield Stow, Ohio-Stow-Munroe Batting Avg.: .400 Home Runs: 1
Lauren Delapaz
15
Sophomore Infield Plymouth, Mich.-Canton Batting Avg.: .300 RBI: 2
Allison Scherer
16
Freshman Infield/Pitcher Stow, Ohio-Stow-Munroe Batting Avg.: .200 Home Runs: 0 Record: 1-1
Kaylee Tolliver
19
Freshman Infield Amanda, Ohio-Amanda Clearcreek Batting Avg: .143 Home Runs: 0
Stacie Skodinski
21
Sophomore Infield South Bend, Ind.-Washington Batting Avg: .769 Home Runs: 1
Jennie Sherman
22
Freshman Utility Ortonville, Mich.-Brandon Batting Avg: .000 Home Runs: 0
• Has started all four games this season • Went 2-for-3 against FAMU (2-21-09) • 2006 All-MAC freshman team selection • Two-time MAC Player of the Week honoree • Played in every game the past two seasons (2007, 2008) • Career .241 hitter with nine home runs and 58 RBI
• Has 23 career home runs after hitting on against Albany (2-20-09); now one away from tying all-time record • 2008 All-MAC second team pick • 2007 All-MAC first team and all-freshman team selection • Second on season single list for home runs (11) • Only player in EMU history to hit for the cycle • Sister, Allison, joins her on the team for 2009 season • Had seventh multi-hit game of her career against No. 22 Louisville (2-22-09) • Played six different positions in 2008 • Appeared in 37 games with a .240 batting average • Hit first career home run against Ball State (4-25-08) • Totaled six multi-hit games in 2008
• Secured first collegiate win in the circle against No. 22 Louisville (2-22-09), pitching 1.1 innings of relief • Picked up first hit against Albany (2-20-09) • Joins sister, Jenny, on the 2009 team • All-State selection following senior year of high school • Four-time all-conference selection
• Started three games at first base • Picked up first career hit against No. 22 Louisville (2-22-09) • Holds high school records for batting average and home runs in a career • Three-time all-conference pick
• Hit game-winning two-run home run against No. 22 Louisville (2-22-09) • Has four multi-hit games in 2009 • 2008 All-MAC freshman team selection • Hit .264 in 2008 with three home runs and 12 RBI • Part of ASA Regional team that took on Team USA
• Had RBI sacrifice fly in 3-2 win against No. 22 Louisville (2-22-09) • Made two appearances in 2009, starting once • Four-time all-conference selection in high school • Picked to all-district and all-county teams three times • Hit .485 during her last high school season • Named all-state after hitting .444 during sophomore year
Contact: Sarah VanMetre, Graduate Assistant • 734.487.0317 • Fax: 734.485.3840 • Cell: 317.679.8228 • [email protected]
2009 Eastern Michigan University Softball Release
6
2009 Eastern Michigan University Softball Overall Statistics Eastern Michigan University Overall Statistics for Eastern Michigan (as of Feb 23, 2009) (All games Sorted by Batting avg) Record: 3-1 Player
avg gp-gs
21 SKODINSKI, Sta 13 HAN, Heather 14 SCHERER, Jenny 15 DELAPAZ, Lauren 5 CARO, Jaclyn 16 SCHERER, Allison 8 PATTERSON, Jess 3 GERBER, Sarah 7 RUSS, McKenna 19 TOLLIVER, Kayle 9 RICHARDS, Jessic 22 SHERMAN, Jenni -------------------2 HLETKO, Michelle
.7 6 9 . 444 .400 . 300 .2 5 0 . 200 .167 . 167 .1 4 3 . 143 .0 0 0 . 000
4-4 4-4 4-3 4-4 2-2 3-2 4-4 4-3 4-4 3-3 3-2 2-1
Home: 0-0 h
Away: 0-1
ab
r
13 9 10 10 4 5 12 6 14 7 5 3
3 10 1 4 3 4 2 3 0 1 1 1 2 2 1 1 3 2 0 1 1 0 0 0
2b 3b hr
4 0 1 0 0 1 0 1 0 1 0 0
0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0
1 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
rbi
Neutral: 3-0
tb slg%
Mid-American: 0-0
bb hp
6 17 1.308 0 4 . 444 3 8 .8 0 0 2 3 . 300 0 1 .2 5 0 0 2 . 400 1 2 .1 6 7 0 2 . 333 2 4 .2 8 6 0 2 . 286 0 0 .0 0 0 1 0 . 000
0 2 1 2 0 0 0 1 0 2 1 0
0 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 0
so gdp
ob% sf sh sb-att
0 1 2 2 0 3 2 1 8 0 4 2
0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
.769 . 583 .500 . 417 .250 . 200 .167 . 286 .200 . 400 .167 . 000
0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1
0 1 0 0 3 0 2 1 0 0 0 1
0-0 0-0 1-1 1-1 0-0 0-0 1-1 0-0 0-0 0-0 1-2 0-0
po
a
8
8
e fld% 3 .842
10
6
0 1.000
7
1
0 1.000
7
10
1 .944
6
0
0 1.000
0
2
0 1.000
1
0
0 1.000
8
4
0 1.000
5
0
0 1.000
21
1
1 .957
5
2
0 1.000
0
0
0 .000
. 000
1-1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
. 000
0
0
0
0
. 000
0
0
0-0
0
0
0 .000
Totals
.296
4
98
17
29
8
1
2
15
45
.459
9
4
25
0
.375
1
8
4-5
78
34
5 .957
Opponents
.176
4
91
11
16
4
1
0
8
22
.242
14
2
14
0
.299
0
3
7-9
78
37
6 .950
LOB - Team (25), Opp (21). DPs turned - Team (1).
(All games Sorted by Earned run avg) Player
era
w-l
cg
sho
sv
ip
h
r
er
bb
so
2b
3b
0. 00 1. 08 3. 0 0 5. 53
0-0 1-0 1-0 1-1
1 3 2 2
1 2 1 0
0 1 0 0
0/0 1/0 0/0 0/0
0 0 1 0
2.0 13.0 4.2 6.1
1 5 3 7
0 2 4 5
0 2 2 5
1 6 2 5
1 5 6 2
0 4 0 0
0 0 0 1
0 0 0 0
.167 . 119 .167 . 280
0 0 0 1
0 1 0 1
0 0 0 0
0 0 0 0
0 2 0 1
Totals
2.42
3-1
4
4
1
1/0
1
26.0
16
11
9
14
14
4
1
0
.176
1
2
0
0
3
Opponents
3.50
1-3
4
4
1
1/1
0
26.0
29
17
13
9
25
8
1
2
.296
0
4
1
1
8
11 GREENE, Kelsey 2 HLETKO, Michelle 5 CARO, Jaclyn 16 SCHERER, Allison
app gs
hr b/avg wp hp bk sfa sha
PB - Team (1), HAN 1. SBA/ATT - HAN (5-6), SCHERER, A. (5-5), GERBER (2-3), CARO (1-2), HLETKO (1-1), GREENE (0-1).
Contact: Sarah VanMetre, Graduate Assistant • 734.487.0317 • Fax: 734.485.3840 • Cell: 317.679.8228 • [email protected]
