Home Opener A Success As #10 Tampa Sweeps Salem International

TAMPA, Fla. - The No. 10 University of Tampa (8-2) softball team notched a doubleheader sweep of visiting Salem International University (0-8) in its 2009 home opener. The Spartans won game one by a 3-0 score before an 11-2 victory in game two that went five innings.

In game one, Tampa scored one in the first and tacked on a pair on the sixth for starting pitcher Deanna Henriott. The reigning SSC Player of the Week finished with a complete game shutout while allowing just two hits and striking out 14 in seven innings.

Michele Horan was a perfect 2-2 at the plate with a triple and an RBI. Samantha Becker and Kallan Casey each drove in a run as well for UT.

Kari Walsh made her 2009 pitching debut in game two, finishing with a complete game. Walsh struck out three batters while giving up just six hits in the game.

Ashley Arcuri was 3-3 at the plate as Horan and Kallan Casey each notched a triple for the Spartans. Becker and Casey each had two RBI's as seven Spartans drove in a run in the balanced offensive effort.

Tampa now travels to Clermont where it will open the eight game tournament on Friday against Grand Valley State and St. Joseph's. Game times are 1:30 and 3:30 p.m. Fans may sign up for eScores at www.tampaspartans.com to receive text message alerts following Spartan athletic events.