COD women's softball team heads to national tournament

The College of DuPage women's softball team's closed out their regular 2011 season with a 46-6 record, leading the team to a first place ranking in the NJCAA Division III as they prepare for the national tournament in Rochester, Minn.

The team, which finished its last season with a 23-20 record, has enjoyed stellar performances this year, besting some tough teams and earning Coach Ryan Connell his first ever win over second-ranked Kankakee College.

“It's definitely a milestone for me and our freshman players from last year, We are definitely enjoying the positive change in our performance,” he said. “Last season was difficult, but this has been a great bounce back for us.”

The team has several days off until heading to the national tournament May 19 to 21 in Rochester, Minn. Looking ahead to those matchups, Connell said they will likely face Tompkins Cortland College, the team the Lady Chaparrals lost the championship to in 2009.

“Tompkins Cortland still has to win its regional, but it's expected they will,” he said. “We have already beat them this season, so we're feeling pretty confident heading to the tournament.”

For more information, including a schedule of upcoming games, visit: www.cod.edu/athletics.