The University of Illinois Springfield softball team had a big offensive day on Saturday in Louisville, Ky. as it swept its first conference doubleheader of the year. The Prairie Stars had 20 hits and 20 runs as they defeated Bellarmine by scores of 8-5 and 12-1.
 
In the opening game, UIS scored all eight of its runs in the first three innings, and then held on for the victory. Morgan Edwards opened the scoring with a two-run homer in the first, and added another RBI later in the game. Carolyn Franke sparked the four-run third inning with a three-run double, and then later came around to score.
 
Jaycee Craver earned the win, allowing seven hits and five runs in the complete game win. She struck out six batters. Derhake was another star with two hits, two runs, and one RBI.
 
In game two, UIS already led 5-0 before a seven-run fourth inning that helped it win by the run-rule. Ali Bortmess hit a grand slam in the game and finished with two hits, two runs, and five RBI. Carolyn Franke had a pair of hits, runs, and RBI. Natalie Cokel also had two runs, and Calla Wickenhauser drove in a pair. Payton Long threw a complete game, allowing two hits and one run in five innings. She struck out seven batters and walked one.
 
UIS improves to 13-11 on the season and 2-0 in conference action. The Prairie Stars are in action again on Sunday at noon at Southern Indiana.