EVANSVILLE, Ind.—The University of Southern Indiana softball team opens its 2009 campaign Friday when it takes on Delta State University and Arkansas Tech University at the Super 8 Classic in Monticello, Arkansas.

First pitch for USI's game with Delta State is 2 p.m., while the first pitch for the USI-Arkansas Tech contest is slated for 4 p.m.

The Screaming Eagles also play the University of Arkansas-Monticello Saturday at noon and Sunday at noon as well as Ouachita Baptist University Saturday at 2 p.m. and Sunday at 10 a.m.

Led by junior All-American designated player Sara Loete (Pekin, Illinois), USI's offensive lineup features eight players that hit .250 or better in 2008. Loete hit .405 with 10 home runs and a school-record and GLVC-best 54 RBIs in 2008.

USI's pitching staff will be anchored by senior hurler Stephanie Schneider (Birdseye, Indiana), who was 9-6 with a 3.48 ERA in 2008. Schneider, who has battled a knee injury the last two seasons, earned GLVC Pitcher of the Week honors in April 2008 after going 3-0 with a 0.67 ERA and a .164 opponent batting average against Rockhurst, Bellarmine, and Northern Kentucky.