Ross Throws Perfect Game In Victory Over UT-Martin

NORMAL, Ill.–It does not get much better than pitching a perfect game in softball. On Thursday, March 10th that’s exactly what Hannah Ross did.

Ross became the third Illinois State University softball player to ever throw a perfect game while wearing a Redbirds jersey in a 1-0 victory over UT-Martin.

With this accomplishment Ross recognizes she could not have done it without her teammates.

“I’m a ground ball pitcher, the defense has to be on whenever I’m pitching,” said Ross. “We had some amazing plays behind me. I am always very grateful for my defense. I only had 5 strikeouts–the team’s defense was so on that night”

After a week since the no-hitter Ross realizes it cannot be a reality to throw a perfect game every time she steps onto the diamond. But she is using what she learned from going strong all seven innings to her advantage.

Being able to keep her composure the entire game and keeping focused will help Ross in future games.

“Moving on I can’t just think since I pitched a perfect game, I need to do that all the time,” said Ross.“Building from the mental toughness from that and finishing those seven innings.”

Going into this weekend ISU starts conference play against Missouri State. After a slow start to the preseason, the team has gone on a hot streak to finish it off.

“Preseason you learn who you are as a team we found ourselves at the end of preseason, so we just have to move that into conference and not overthink these games”

The team had a rarity going into this season’s conference play getting to see a conference opponent in the preseason. They had the opportunity to face a strong Northern Iowa team. Beating one of the best teams in the conference gave them the extra confidence boost they needed. But it could come at a cost.

“We have a target on our back now that we beat them.” said Ross

This weekend the Redbirds travel to Missouri to take on the Missouri State Bears who currently have a record of 8-12.

The first pitch is scheduled for Saturday, March 19th at 12 p.m.