Spartans Split Season Opening Doubleheader

CLEARWATER, Fla. - The University of Tampa softball team kicked off its season on Friday, splitting its first two games of the Eckerd Tournament. The Spartans (1-1) lost their first game of the doubleheader to Flagler College (5-3) by a score of 4-0 but won the second game to conference foe Eckerd College (3-5) in the nightcap with a score of 3-0.

In the first game, Tampa hurler Kari Walsh pitched a gem, striking out 10 and walking one. The lefty's only runs came off of a two run shot by Blazers catcher Katherine Cabrera, while Peach Belt Pitcher of the Week Kelly Riddick pitched a one-hitter and struck out eight batters.

In the second game, the Spartans topped the Tritons with a great outing by right hander Heather Van Landingham, who struck out five en route to the win. Freshman leftfielder Brittany Dattilo and shortstop Julie Wisniewski had two hits each, Dattilo stole a base and Wisniewski picked up two RBI.

The Spartans play two games Saturday in the continuation of the Eckerd Tournament against Drury University and Sunshine State Conference foe Florida Tech in a nonconference game at 1:30 p.m. and 4 p.m. respectively.