Boilermakers to face Akron at 2 p.m.

Feb. 18, 2000

by Tom Schott

RALEIGH, N.C. - Northern-based softball teams migrate south this time of year to take advantage of warm climates.

Sometimes Mother Nature doesn't cooperate.

Purdue arrived here Friday morning for the Triangle Classic to wet grounds, cloudy skies and temperatures in the 30s. Not exactly spring training weather. As a result, the start of the tournament is under a two-hour delay, meaning the Boilermakers (1-4) will begin play at 2 p.m. against Akron. Purdue will play North Carolina at 6 p.m.

Wintery weather in the midwest altered Purdue's travel plans. Originally scheduled to arrive Thursday night from Indianapolis via Chicago, the Boilermakers' flight out of Chicago was cancelled. They were re-routed through Atlanta but could not get a connecting flight until this morning. Purdue arrived expecting to head straight to the ballpark - with an hour to spare - before being told of the delay.

Sophomore Nicole Crouse (0-1, 4.50 ERA) is expected to be Purdue's starting pitcher against Akron with freshman Leighann Burke (1-1, 5.27) due to start against North Carolina.