Oct. 23, 2006

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. - The Samford University softball team held its second-annual "Knockin' Cancer out of the Ballpark" charity game Sunday and raised over $22,000 for the UAB Pediatric Neuro-Oncology Program at Children's Hospital. The Bulldogs defeated Alabama-Huntsville, 3-1, in the contest.

"This was an awesome event and there was a great atmosphere surrounding the game," said Samford head coach Beanie Ketcham. "Samford softball would like to thank the Howell and Long families for spearheading the event, and for all the volunteers that made this day a great day."

In front of an estimated 400 fans at Bulldog Field, Samford (6-3) opened the scoring with a run in the bottom of the first inning by sophomore Jessica Owens. The Bulldogs later received a game-winning two-run homer from Katie England in the sixth frame to seal the victory.

Samford's senior pitcher Susanna Meyer hurled six innings and only allowed five hits. Sophomore Stephanie Royall came in to pitch in the seventh inning and picked up the save.

"Overall, I was very pleased with how our defense performed," Ketcham said. "I also thought that our pitching was great with Susanna (Meyer) going six solid innings and Stephanie (Royall) coming in to shut them down. We also came up with some key hits when we needed to."

With the Bulldogs' victory over Alabama-Huntsville, Samford completed its 2006 fall season with a 6-3 record.

The Samford University softball team will begin play in its 2007 season at the Florida State University Invitational in February.