CONWAY, Ark. – The University of Central Arkansas softball team turns its focus towards Southland Conference play this weekend with a visit by the Cardinals of UIW. The Bears will face off for a three-game series with a doubleheader on Friday.
 
The Bears open conference play with a 13-9 record after playing a strong non-conference schedule that featured three teams that were ranked in the preseason top-25.
 
As a team, the Bears have a team batting average of .299, while opponents are only hitting .214. UCA has tallied 50 extra base hits on the year, 11 of which are via the long ball. In the circle, the Bears have a staff ERA of 1.93 and all pitchers have an ERA under 3.00. The staff has combined for eight shutouts and is tied for fourth in the NCAA.
 
Kayla Crutchmer leads the nation with 23 stolen bases on the year and is just four shy of tying the UCA record for career stolen bases.
 
The Bears and Cardinals have met 14 times in the history of the two programs. UCA holds a 10-4 record against UIW, including a series sweep last season. The Cardinals are led by Abby Frank, who leads the SLC in triples and leads the team with a .381 batting average. In the circle, the Cardinals are led by Renee Hoffman and Annie Gunther, who are ranked No. 19 and No. 20, respectively, in the Southland in ERA.
 
The series begins Friday with a doubleheader with first pitch scheduled for 4 p.m. Game two will begin approximately 30 minutes after the conclusion of game one. The final game is scheduled for 11 a.m. on Saturday.
 
Follow along with live stats or watch.

Follow the Bears
Twitter
Facebook
Instagram