Quest for national championship titles continues for softball, baseball

May 12, 2008

The spring semester may be winding down for most college students, but for the UW-Whitewater softball and baseball teams, the season is ramping up.

Softball in Final Eight

After a 6-2 win in eight innings over the defending NCAA Division III National Champion DePauw University Monday, May 12, the Warhawk women’s softball team has advanced to the Final Eight series in Salem, Va., May 16-20. UW-Whitewater, with a 36-7 overall record, will take on State University of New York-Cortland (36-11) at 1:30 p.m., Friday, May 16.

"This team is amazing," Head Coach Brenda Volk said. "There is not just one individual that we rely on. It seems like every game someone different steps us with a big hit or a big play. Every single person on the field and in the dugout has contributed to our success this year and it is a great feeling."

Athletic Director Paul Plinske added, "Battling back against the No. 1 ranked team was a huge confidence builder at the Region Finals for this young, aspiring team. Heading to Salem for the national championships is truly exciting for a group that has worked so hard. Anything can happen now and we are excited to see how our women perform at the World Series."

For more information, visit: Softball 2008 National Championship

Baseball in Regional

The Warhawk baseball team earned an at-large berth in the NCAA Division III championship tournament after a disappointing loss in the championship game of the WIAC tournament Saturday, May 10. The men (35-8) will take on College of Saint Scholastica (32-4) at 1 p.m., Wednesday, May 14 in a regional hosted by UW-Oshkosh.

If the Warhawks win, they will play again at 4 p.m., Thursday, May 15. If they lose, they will play at 10 a.m., Thursday, May 15.

"We are excited to be selected for a NCAA berth once again," Head Coach John Vodenlich said. "Our team has great chemistry, reminiscent of the 2005 National Championship team. Our regional is arguably the toughest in the nation with Saint Thomas, Carthage and Saint Scholastica, not to mention WIAC rival, UW-Oshkosh. In order to win the regional, we will need to continue to play solid defense while getting extraordinary performances on the mound. Offensively, we will need all nine players to get hot."

Plinske added, "It's an exciting time for Warhawk baseball. Heading up north for the next two consecutive weeks is our goal, but taking it one game at a time will enable us to be successful. We have a talented, experienced and hungry group of players ready to make a statement this weekend in Oshkosh. We hope our fans can make the trip to support our team in their quest to make the World Series."

For more information, visit: Baseball 2008 NCAA Regional.