March 30, 2009
NOTRE DAME, Ind. – Notre Dame softball senior Beth Northway was named the BIG EAST Conference Player of the Week, announced by the league on Monday. The designated player earned the honor after her consistent bat helped the Irish run their winning streak to seven games with three conference wins over the weekend.
Northway came through in pinch-hitting duties for Notre Dame with nine hits in 16 at-bats as the Irish posted a 6-0 record for the week. Northway hit for a .562 batting average with a 1.125 slugging percentage in the six contests, including a pair of home runs and three doubles. She had four multi-hit games, scoring seven runs and collecting seven walks. Northway connected for four hits in seven at-bats at USF to help Notre Dame secure its first ever sweep of the Bulls.
Northway’s .500 batting average in league play is tied for sixth overall among BIG EAST batters while her 1.200 slugging percentage is tied for first.
The Kentwood, Mich. Native began the 2009 campaign as a nonstarter and has emerged as one of the Irish’s most productive hitters this season. After her sophomore season she underwent shoulder surgery and converted her throwing technique from right- to left-handed.
The Irish (17-11) return to the field Tuesday against IUPUI for one game against the Jaguars at Melissa Cook Stadium. First pitch is scheduled for 6:00 p.m. (ET), with live stats, audio and video available at UND.com.
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