Jan. 31, 2003

The University of Missouri softball team will open its 2003 season with the Black and Gold game at noon on Saturday. The intersquad game is free to the public and will take place in the Dan Devine Pavilion.

The 2003 Tigers are led by new head coach Ty Singleton, who took over the program in May. Singleton compiled a 75-45 record in two seasons as the head coach at Northwestern State (La.) University.

Mizzou has a combination of veteran players and newcomers on this year's roster. Returning pitchers include senior Ingrid Werner and sophomore Erin Kalka. Freshman Samantha Fleeman will add a third arm to the Tiger rotation. Around the infield, MU returns All-Big 12 performer Rachael McGinnis, a junior, at third base alongside sophomore Heather Kunkel at shortstop.

Junior Morgan LeCluyse, sophomore Ashley Hays and freshman Kendra Power could each see time at second base for the Tigers. At first base, junior Jeni Schellert returns along with freshman newcomer Joanne Loethen. Junior Daisy Mettlach and freshman Morgan Kent will handle the duties behind the plate for MU this season.

Two seniors anchor the Tiger outfield with Sara Vassmer, a two-time All-Big 12 selection, in left and Kristen Burke in center. Along with seeing time at second base, LeCluyse will likely play in the outfield throughout the 2003 season.

Mizzou will open up the regular season on Feb. 7 at the Auburn Invitational in Auburn, Ala. The Tigers will play in five tournaments to open up the season. The first home action for MU will be on March 12 as the Tigers host Pittsburg State. They will begin Big 12 Conference play on March 20 at home against Kansas.