After a 12-day layoff since their last game, IU (1-15) will looks to refocus going into this weekend at the USF Under Armour Showcase in Clearwater, Fla.
The Hoosiers will have to execute on both sides of the ball if they plan on snapping the Florida Gulf Coast Eagles’ 17-game winning streak. The Eagles (25-4) will take on the Hoosiers in the opening game 4 p.m. Friday.
Even though the Hoosiers’ record shows a lack of success, IU coach Michelle Gardner has continued to emphasize a positive outlook. Her attitude has rubbed off on some of the veterans.
“The whole atmosphere is more positive this year,” junior outfielder Kelli Ritchison said.
The 12-day break came at a bit of an inconvenient time for Ritchison, who finished the tournament 5-for-14 and has been promoted to the top of the Hoosier batting order.
After playing with a broken finger last year, the junior is looking to give the team a boost.
“We need to score more runs, and we need to put the bat on the ball,” Ritchison said. “It’s a brand-new tournament and a brand-new weekend for us.”
– By Connor O’Gara
Rested team travels to Fla.
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