Indiana Softball began the season 0-7 last year. So far this season, they are sitting at 9-0, have a top 25 upset under their belt, and are ranked #24. This is the first time since 1996 that they’ve been ranked in the top 25. Things are already looking up for the Hoosiers and Coach Shonda Stanton in her second season.
The Hoosiers began their season two weeks ago at the FAU First Pitch Classic, defeating five teams including Virginia, St. Johns, and #6 Georgia. The next weekend they kept their streak alive by conquering both Duke and Syracuse twice in the Big Ten/ACC Challenge. The Hoosiers outscored their ACC opponents 16-7, giving up only 15 hits in the four games.
The only time Indiana trailed last weekend was in their second game against Syracuse in the 5th inning, but the Hoosiers quickly recovered to a two run lead. Coach Stanton credited the teams aggressive play style for both the Hoosiers close victories and blowout wins.
“For right now, we’re finding a way to win. I’m excited about our ballclub and what we’re doing. Tara gave us a great start, defensively we made the plays we needed to and we did clutch up when we needed the insurance and that was nice to see.”
During their final game, seven Hoosiers registered a hit and five scored. Pitcher Emily Goodwin allowed only three hits, successfully earning her second win of the season.
After their final game, Coach Stanton stated “I couldn’t be any more proud of our team, we’re going home 9-0 and it’s going to be fun to get back and take a look at how many teams are undefeated in the country right now. I really like our fast start.”
After only one the first weekend of the season, the Hoosiers collected four home runs during the Big Ten/ACC challenge, getting 20 hits across the whole weekend.
After their appearance in the challenge, Tara Trainer was named Big Ten pitcher of the week for leading the Hoosiers to victory with a 0.41 ERA.
