Tuesday, March 23, 2004

Steffany Stenglein struck out 14 while firing a perfect game to lead Notre Dame past Valparaiso 9-0 on Tuesday afternoon at the Valparaiso University Softball Field in the Crusaders home opener.

Stenglein did not allow a ball to go out of the infield, producing the other four outs with a popout and three ground outs.

The Fighting Irish got on the scoreboard in the first on a three-run homer by Meagan Ruthrauff. Nicole Wicks added a solo shot in the third, and Mallorie Lenn added a two-run blast in the fourth to cap off a three run inning. Notre Dame (20-9) added two more in the sixth to secure the victory.

Brittany Atteberry (Schererville, Ind./Lake Central H.S.) started and suffered the loss in the circle for the Crusaders, one of three pitchers to see action in the game.

Valpo (3-8) will look to snap its five-game losing skid on Wednesday afternoon as the Crusaders travel to West Lafayette, Ind. to battle Purdue. The first game of the doubleheader is slated to begin at 1 p.m. CST.