Northwestern University Athletics
"Embracing the Big Ten Battles" - By Sydney Supple
3/30/2022 7:32:00 PM | Softball
The Big Ten part of our season is a whole new ball game.
This past weekend we walked into the facility with snow coming down. We put on two layers of Under Armour leggings under our uniforms and patiently waited for the "real feel" to hit exactly 28 degrees so we could be in business to take the field. Big Ten battles are true testimonies as to who is the grittier team and who wants it more. Let me take a moment to acknowledge the thick skin you have to have to play in the Big Ten–and I mean figuratively and physically. To play in this conference you have to be outright tough. That task is something we embrace wholeheartedly.
Being back on Sharon J. Drysdale field for a game day was the best feeling, even when it was freezing outside. With the sight of the purple and white flags raised high for all to see, we knew we were home. The greatest part about playing at home was seeing our fans! From two games on Friday and one on Sunday, they were incredible sitting in the stands, yelling and screaming through any weather conditions.
My favorite moments from this weekend ranged from huge parts of our game to small moments that happened internally. Rachel Lewis walked off Game #3 the way she does best...by sending a bomb over the fence. What was so great about this home run was it was off a change-up, opposite field, and CLEARED the bleachers!!! I guess that is what happens when you squat 300 lbs...
???? @rlewis_11 called GAME.#GoCats | #BeRemarkable pic.twitter.com/61nAGPQhSK
— Northwestern Softball (@NUSBcats) March 27, 2022
As far as the internal moments, if you have ever been in one of our infield huddles you would hear our constant conversation with "Sharon" (we refer to our field as if she is a person). We laugh and ask her what type of mood she is in that day, knowing it's probably a mean one and the ground balls are going to be no joke, but we still remain confident. No matter what, we feel we know her secrets better than anyone else. So bring on the rain and cold weather, that is when we shine and are in our prime element.
It is no secret that this upcoming week is a huge match-up. For the first time in 11 years, we will be hosting Michigan at home. While we acknowledge who will be in the other dugout, our main focus–like it has been all season long–remains on us and playing our game.
Show up this weekend 'Cats fans, this is a series you will not want to miss!! I will see you at the field.
Sincerely,
Sydney Supple #26
