May 3, 2006

Itta Bena, MS - The Southern University Lady Jaguars softball team ended the 2006 season on a high note. Even though they were defeated by a great Alcorn State University squad in the semifinals, 4-2, the Lady Jaguars return six starters and a deep bench.

In the semifinal game the Lady Braves used timely hitting and two errors to score the runs in the third inning which would guide them to a championship berth. Southern was led by a 2-for-3 performance by Candice Stevens while Jayme Roberts and Tiffany Darville each scored a run for the Lady Jaguars.

Southern (26-24, 17-7 SWAC) finishes the season ranked second overall in the SWAC and third in the tournament. The Blue and Gold only lose three players but those three players were head coach Nancy Marshall's top three pitchers. Jamila Taylor, Jayme Roberts and Samisha Bledsoe leave a lasting impression on the team and the SWAC. The seniors accounted for numerous awards including one SWAC player of the year award, two pitcher of the year awards, and one SWAC tournament most valuable player award.

"These three will be greatly missed," said Marshall. "With all three being pitchers the main recruiting focus for us has been and will be the mound."

The Lady Jaguars return two pitchers from the 2006 season. Freshmen Jennifer Hodrick and Lauren Dodd will look to lead from the mound. Hodrick completed the season with a 5.14 era and a 5-5 record. The Gardena, California native had 20 strikeouts and had 56 innings pitched. Dodd was used mostly as a pinch hitter and runner this year as she adjusted to the collegiate game. The Sugarland, Texas native saw 13.2 innings pitched and finished the year with a 1-1 record.

"The freshman performed well for us in their first year of college ball," Marshall said. "We will work with them in the off season to perfect their pitching."

The 2006 Nancy Marshall softball camp will be held on July 13th - 15th. All interested participants can call 225-771-2176