Feb. 21, 2008

OREM, Utah - After a strong opening tournament two weeks ago, Utah Valley looks to keep the momentum going as the Wolverines head to Las Cruces, N.M. to play in the Troy Cox Classic.

The Wolverines (2-3) will play five teams that boast RPIs in the 80-104 range. UV will kick off the tournament on Friday when the Wolverines face off against early season surprise Texas A&M Corpus Christi at 7 p.m. (MT)

UV will then play double headers on Saturday and Sunday. Saturday's match ups include games against tournament host New Mexico State at 2 p.m. and Samford University at 7 p.m.

Sunday's games include a 9 a.m. tilt with Indiana State before taking on Big 12 opponent Oklahoma State in the second of the twinbill. New Mexico State is the only team in the tournament field the Wolverines have played previously. The Aggies won both games in which the two teams have faced off.

"I hope we can match last weekend's effort," Utah Valley head coach Todd Fairbourne said. "On a young team each tournament will reveal who will step up for us. We have a great group of kids and I hope they continue to reap the benefits of their efforts and attitudes."

Utah Valley had a week to prepare for this weekend's action. The Wolverines opened the season at the Red Desert Classic two weeks ago. UV won two games convincingly and lost three times by a total of three runs.

A pair of newcomers shined for the Wolverines after the first tournament. Freshman Meghan Woodworth currently leads Utah Valley with a .438 batting average. Woodworth also hit a home run and drove in six in the Wolverines opening weekend.

Sophomore transfer Alli Bramwell leads UV pitchers after one weekend. Bramwell recorded both of the victories for the Wolverines while posting a 2.67 ERA.

All four Wolverines pitchers will likely see action this weekend as Heidi Stocks and Natalie Nance have already pitched early in the season. True freshman Abby Bowcutt could also see action in the circle this week.

Next up after this weekend's tournament is a scheduled home opener on March 1. Weather permitting, Utah Valley will host a double header on Saturday starting at noon. (MT)