NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- The Tennessee Tech softball team was shut out by IPFW Sunday in the Golden Eagles' only appearance in the Purple and Gold Challenge, hosted by Lipscomb. The Golden Eagles were slated to play in four games, but three were cancelled due to cold weather.
IPFW rallied in the 30 degree weather, scoring one run in the opening frame, two in the second and four more in the third to build an 8-0 lead. Erica Tuck (0-2) took the loss in 1.1 innings of work, and Claudia Harke closed the game by working the final 3.2 innings.
Melody Christian and Kendall Hooper were the lone Golden Eagles to reach base on hits, both singles. IPFW's Ann Kramer struck out nine batters in five innings of work.
Tech returns to action Thursday in its biggest tournament of the season. The Golden Eagles travel to Florida to play in the USF Tournament in Tampa. Tech will face off against five teams, before winding its way back to Tennessee, playing three games along the way at Florida A&M and Thomas (Ga.).