#16 Tampa Returns Home To Face Barry University

TAMPA, Fla-The No. 16 University of Tampa softball team is set to host fellow Sunshine State Conference opponent, Barry University in a three game series with the first game slated for 6 p.m. Saturday evening.

The Buccaneers come into the match-up leading the all-times series record history against the Spartans by a 22-53 margin. Tampa currently holds a 30-6 overall record while going 11-4 in the SSC to take the third position in the conference standings as Barry leads the league with a 28-7 overall mark while going 14-1 in the SSC.

Head coach Leslie Kanter's Spartans dropped four spots in the NFCA poll to hold the No. 16 spot in the nation after falling in the series to No. 6 Rollins College this past weekend. The Tars took the first two games of a three game series (2-3, 2-3) as the Spartans were able to battle back to capture the last meeting on the road in a 3-1 decision. Katlyn Raatz homered twice in the win, leading her team to a double header spilt on Sunday against the Tars.

Tampa's top hitters come in the form of Becky Vyzas, Cassie Barnes and Julie Wisniewski batting a .388, .361 and .350 average respectively. On the mound, senior Kari Walsh is currently throwing a 1.78 era to pick up an 11-2 overall record as top Tampa hurler Deanna Henriott throws a .62 era to tab a 19-4 season mark.

Presently in her fifth season with the Buccaneers, the softball program is headed by Danielle Penner. Barry is currently coming off of a three game sweep to Sunshine State Conference opponent, Nova Southeastern.

Alyssa Goldsmith leads the Buccaneers with a .447 batting average as Jessica Tabor following closely behind to put up a .445 batting mark. Barry's top pitcher, Brianna Smith is currently pitching a 1.08 era and holds a 14-5 record.

A heavy price sits on this series as both team's come into the game as some of the top competitors in the conference. UT holds a slight advantage as the squad is currently places as No. 5 in the South Regional rankings as Barry trails to pick up the No. 6 spot. Tampa looks to bounce back from its two losses on the road with efforts to improve its record for post season standings.

Live stats will also be available through www.tampaspartans.com.

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