Steve Georgion, who completed his playing career at Purdue North Central this spring, recently signed a professional baseball contract with the Slippery Rock Sliders of the Frontier League. Georgion, a 6'2, 220 pound left handed hitter from Valparaiso , IN (Boone Grove HS) primarily played first base but also filled a utility role for the Panthers. Georgion will join former teammate Steve Hudson, an infielder who also signed a contract following the conclusion of PNC's season.

Georgion ended the season for the 28-22 Panthers with a .380 average while hitting third in the batting order. He was 65 for 171 overall with seven home runs, 38 RBI's, 13 doubles, four triples, scored 42 runs and stole 10 bases in 12 attempts.

Georgion only committed two errors all year, was voted First Team All-conference and won the Rawlings Gold Glove Award for his standout defensive play.

"Steve has earned this opportunity," said head coach John Weber. "He was one of hardest workers on the team and was always working on improving his game. He had another great year for us both offensively and defensively. We look forward to following his pro career."

Georgion joins Hudson as the first Panthers to sign pro contracts and is the 13th professional player Weber has coached.

Steve Hudson, who completed his playing career at Purdue North Central this spring, recently signed a professional baseball contract with the Slippery Rock Sliders of the Frontier League. Hudson, a 5'10, 175 pound right handed hitter from Willowbrook, IL played shortstop for the Panthers but will be the opening day second baseman for the Sliders.

Hudson ended the season for the 28-22 Panthers with a .385 average, primarily from the lead-off spot. He was 52 for 135 overall and had three home runs, 14 RBI, nine doubles, one triple, scored 29 runs and stole 14 bases in 18 attempts.

"We're excited for Steve and this great opportunity," said head coach John Weber. "He was probably someone that was overlooked because of his size (5'10), but he had an excellent year for us. Professional scouts told us if he were taller he would have been drafted as he has excellent actions, is fast and has a strong arm."

Hudson is believed to be the first Panther to sign a pro contract and is the 12 th professional player Weber has coached.

Weber also believes that Steve Georgion, the last cut of the Gary Railcats, should be given a professional opportunity. Georgion, a 6'2, 220 pound left handed hitter from Valparaiso, IN, also completed his career at PNC this spring and hit .380 (65 for 171). He led the team in most offensive categories and had seven home runs, 38 RBI, 13 doubles, four triples, scored 42 runs and stole 10 bases.

Georgion only committed two errors all year at first base and also played several other positions for the Panthers. He was voted First Team All-conference and won the Rawlings Gold Glove Award for his standout defensive play.

Junior pitcher Tom Albano ( Chesterton , IN /Chesterton HS) was recently named NAIA Honorable Mention All-American.

Albano was named First Team All-Region as a relief pitcher by the selection committee after being named First Team All-Conference by the Chicagoland Collegiate Athletic Conference. As a First Team All-Region selection, Albano automatically becomes an Honorable Mention All-American, and has a chance to reach higher All-American status.

Albano finished 4-0 with seven saves and a 1.88 ERA in 17 games. In 28.2 innings, Albano struck out 31 and walked eight while holding opponents to a .189 average. He gave up eight runs (six earned) and just 18 hits on the year, including just one extra base hit. Albano had not given up an earned run all year until the final game of the season when he was tagged for six runs and eight hits in four innings of work.

Albano was converted to a submarine style pitcher his freshman year by head coach John Weber and has been a standout performer ever since. Last year he was 4-1 with a 1.66 ERA and five saves in 18 games. He allowed six runs (four earned) in 21.2 innings pitched while striking out 20 and walking four. Opponents batted just .241 verses Albano in 2006 and he gave up just 19 hits. As a freshman in 2005 he was 3-0 with two saves and a 2.33 ERA in 12 games. He allowed six earned runs in 18 innings and gave up only eight hits (two for extra bases) and struck out 19 while walking 10.

Albano is already PNC's career and single season record holder for appearances, saves and ERA. This year's numbers would have been even better if he hadn't missed several games due to a freak injury. He was hit in the head on an overthrown ball during pre-game infield and suffered a blood clot to the brain. Albano 's presence was sorely missed as the Panthers blew several late inning leads during his absence.

"We couldn't be happier for Tommy," said Weber. "He epitomizes all that we want in our student-athletes and represents us in a classy manner both on and off the field. He is a great student, is involved in several campus activities, including PNC's Student Government (Secretary), and is a great competitor."

Albano 's career for the Panthers is a success story that Weber often shares with others.

"He literally was the last guy on the team his freshman year," said Weber. "He was getting hit hard in practice so we asked if he would be willing to try submarine style pitching to offer a different look."

Albano, a baseball junkie, responded that he would do whatever he could to help the team. Weber had never coached a submarine style pitcher before so they researched how to do it, spending hours looking up video on the internet and contacting other coaches for advice.

It turned out that one of Weber's close coaching friends, Ben Bachman, now the pitching coach at Miami University of Ohio, had recently helped convert other pitchers and sent video they could study. One of the pitchers that Bachman (then an assistant at the University of Maryland ) helped, Steve Schmoll, eventually made it to the major leagues and served as another great example for Albano .

The rest is history. Every time Weber gave Albano the ball in mop-up duty, he kept producing. Eventually, mid-way through his freshman year, he earned the closer job and has held it ever since.

"Honestly, on the spring trip to Florida his freshman year he threw one-third of an inning.and we only let him do that because we wanted to get him in before the end of the trip," said Weber. "It's funny, Tommy's the smallest guy on the field but he produces the biggest results," added Weber.

Despite his size, listed generously at 5'9, 160 lbs on the Panther roster, Albano continues to baffle the opposition.

"His demeanor is perfect for closing...nothing flusters him," said Weber. ""It just shows what hard work and perseverance can do."

Albano is just the third member of the young Panther baseball program to receive All-American status. Current catcher Chris Stocker was Honorable Mention in 2006 and former first baseman Gary Ray received the same honor in 2004.

The Purdue North Central baseball team recently announced the selection of four members to the various Chicagoland Collegiate Athletic All-Conference teams.

Steve Georgion, Jake Pierce and Tom Albano all were selected to the first team, John Selman was named Honorable Mention and Pierce and Georgion both were named to the Rawling's Gold Glove Team.

Georgion a senior first baseman from Valparaiso , IN and Boone Grove High School , batted .380 in 49 games. He was 65 for 171 with seven home runs, 13 doubles, four triples, and 38 RBI with 42 runs scored while slugging .626. He had 17 walks, six hit-by-pitches and was 10 for 12 in stolen bases. Georgion led the team in games, runs, doubles, triples, at bats, hits, walks and slugging. He was second on the team in batting, home runs, RBI and on-base-percentage. Georgion was also recognized by the conference for his outstanding defensive play at first base, winning the Gold Glove Award. He fielded .995 with 373 putouts, 28 assists and just two errors.

Pierce, a junior centerfielder from Crown Point , IN and Crown Point High School , batted .359 in 48 games. He was 55 for 153 with a home run, a triple, 10 doubles, 21 RBI and 34 runs. Pierce had 16 walks, was hit by six pitches and led the team with 15 stolen bases in 18 attempts. He was also recognized by the CCAC for his standout defensive efforts, winning the Gold Glove Award. Pierce fielded 1.000 with 118 putouts and five assists on the season.

Albano, a junior pitcher from Chesterton , IN and Chesterton High School , was named the Relief Pitcher of the Year. He finished 4-0 with seven saves and a 1.88 ERA in 17 games. In 28.2 innings, Albano struck out 31 and walked eight while holding opponents to a .189 average. He gave up eight runs (six earned) and just 18 hits on the year, including just one extra base hit. Albano had not given up an earned run all year until the final game of the season when he was tagged for six runs and eight hits in four innings of work.

Selman, a sophomore utility player from Kouts , IN and Kouts High School , batted .358 in 49 games. He was 58 for 162 overall with three home runs, 12 doubles, a triple, 28 runs, and 28 RBI. Selman had seven walks, was hit 10 times and stole 12 of 15 bases.

The Panthers finished 28-22 overall and 13-7 in the CCAC, good for second place. The 28 wins was the second highest total in Panther history (32-20 last year), while the second place finish is the highest in program history. The Panthers have gone from eighth, to fifth to second in the CCAC under the tenure of coach, John Weber.

The Purdue North Central baseball team was defeated 16-6 by Trinity Christian Friday afternoon in Palos Heights , IL . The loss eliminates the Panthers from the double elimination tournament and ends their season at 28-22.

The 28 wins is the second most wins in program history (32-20 in 2006), while the second place finish in conference is the highest finish in program history.

The Panthers fell behind immediately as Trinity scored four runs in the first inning. They eventually moved ahead 10-0 with two runs in the fourth and four more in the fifth. The Panthers responded with three runs in the fifth and both teams added two in the seventh. Trinity iced the game with four more runs in the ninth before PNC added a run in their last at bats.

PNC had several opportunities to cut into the lead but left a whopping 13 men on base and couldn't take advantage of nine walks from Trinity Christian's pitchers. The Trolls potent offense kept adding runs as they knocked out 19 hits compared to eight for PNC. Trinity's defense was also perfect while the Panthers committed three errors.

Senior Steve Hudson, junior Chris Stocker and freshman Mike Zolper all had two hits with Stocker leading the way with two RBI's.

Junior Scott Marks (4-2) took the loss, surrendering four runs (three earned) in one-third of an inning. Junior Tom Albano came on in relief and gave up his first earned runs of the year. Albano gave up six runs on eight hits in four innings while striking out two. Junior Jon Charlson also added four innings in relief, giving up five runs (two earned), while senior Shawn Kuhns pitched the final two-thirds of an inning, allowing one run.

The Purdue North Central baseball team fell 8-1 to visiting Olivet Nazarene University Thursday afternoon in the first round of the CCAC double elimination tournament.

Olivet scored one run in the first, two in the third, one in the fourth and four in the fifth to advance in the winner's bracket. They pounded out 16 hits overall and committed two errors.

PNC collected nine hits but left eight men on base and also committed two errors. Their only run came on a solo homerun be senior Steve Hudson, his third of the year, in the eighth inning.

After Olivet scored one in the first, PNC knocked out three straight hits to start the game. But the Panthers wasted a golden opportunity when they were forced out at the plate on a ground ball to third base and the batter-runner was called out for interference for being inside the first base path. PNC never recovered and Olivet went on for the easy victory.

Hudson led the way for PNC with two hits while senior Steve Georgion also collected two hits. Senior Chad Pierce had the only extra base hit for the Panthers with a double.

The losing pitcher was junior Brian Phillips (5-5), who allowed seven runs on 11 hits in four innings. Sophomore Andrew Dahman pitched five strong innings in relief, allowing just one run on five hits while punching out one.

The Panthers (28-21) will play again tomorrow at 11 a.m when they take on Trinity Christian in Palos Heights , IL in an elimination game.

The Purdue North Central baseball team fell 6-5 to St. Francis Wednesday evening in Joliet , IL .

The game was played to help determine the number two seed in the Chicagoland Collegiate Athletic Conference after three teams tied for second place. The seed was important because the top two teams in the conference receive an automatic bid into the NAIA Regionals, while the number three through six seeds play in the CCAC Tournament to determine who will join the top two teams in the Regional.

With the victory, St. Francis advanced to play Trinity Christian tonight. The winner will earn the two seed while the loser will be the three seed. With the defeat, PNC fell to the four seed. Trinity Christian received the bye after their name was pulled out of a hat to help set up the three team playoff after all tie-breakers were exhausted.

The Panthers fell behind 6-0 after three innings of play after St. Francis scored two runs each in the first three innings. PNC chipped away and scored two runs in the fifth, one in the seventh and two in the ninth, leaving the tying run in scoring position when the game ended.

The Panthers out-hit St. Francis 12-9 but committed four errors to St. Francis' one. St. Francis also took advantage of several favorable calls to secure the victory.

Individually, sophomore John Selman led the way with four hits and three RBI's while junior Jake Pierce added a double and a triple. Sophomore Dave Dickerson and freshman Adam Kennedy (triple) added two hits and an RBI each.

Freshman pitcher Kevin Scott threw 5.1 innings of scoreless relief, allowing just two hits while striking out two. Senior Sawn Kuhns (6-4) started for the Panthers and was saddled with the loss. He gave up six runs (three earned) on seven hits and one walk while striking out three in 2.2 innings.

The Panthers, now 28-20 overall, play tomorrow at 3 p.m. when they host Olivet Nazarene in the first round of the CCAC Tournament.

The Purdue North Central baseball team swept a doubleheader from Indiana University Northwest Sunday in Gary. The Panthers won the first game 19-1 and completed the sweep with a 11-1 victory. PNC is now 28-19 overall.

In game one the Panthers pounded out 18 hits, including nine for extra bases, in a game shortened to five innings due to the 10 run rule.

Chris Stocker (8 th HR) and Nestor Allende (3 rd HR) each had a home run, a double and five RBI's to lead PNC while Steve Georgion added four hits, including a triple, double and three RBI's. Jake Pierce (two hits, three RBI's), John Selman (two hits, including a double), Mark Myszkowski (two hits, including a double) and Adam Kennedy (two RBI's and first career HR) also had big games for the Panthers.

Shawn Kuhns (6-3) earned the win, allowing one run in three innings of work. Kevin Scott and Craig burden each added a scorless inning for PNC.

PNC scored three in the first, four in the second, three in the fourth and nine in the fifth inning, while IUN scored one in the first.

In game two the Panthers added 15 more hits, including eight for extra bases, to earn the win.

Georgion (three hits, double and 7 th HR, two RBI's), Selman (three hits, double and triple, two RBI's), Allende (two hits, two doubles, two RBI's), Myszkowski (two hits, double), Kennedy (two hits, double, two RBI's), and Stocker (three HBP) led the way.

Jon Charlson (1-2) earned his first career victory with two shutout innings for PNC. Six different pitchers threw for the Panthers, with Scott Marks picking up a huge bases loaded strikeout in the fourth inning with the Panthers up 3-0.

The Panthers scored one in the first, two in the second, three in the fifth and sixth and two in the seventh while IUN scored one run in the seventh inning.

The Panthers will now wait to find out when they play their next game. They can finish as high as second and no lower than third in the CCAC, their highest finish ever in conference play.

The Purdue North Central baseball team dropped a doubleheader to St. Francis Saturday afternoon in Joliet, IL. The Panthers lost the first game 2-1 and fell 5-0 in game two. The Panthers are now 26-19 overall and finished 13-7 in conference play, while the Saints improved to 29-18 and also finished 13-7.

In game one the Panthers wasted a strong pitching performance from Brian Phillips (5-4), who allowed both runs (unearned) in the complete game effort. Phillips allowed just five singles while striking out two and walking one.

The Panthers collected seven hits and wasted several scoring opportunities, leaving eight men on base. PNC also had the tying run cut down at the plate for the final out of the ballgame.

Jake Pierce led the Panthers with two hits while Steve Georgion reached base three times with a hit and two hit-by-pitches.

Steve Hudson drove in the only run for PNC with an RBI single in the second inning. St. Francis responded with two runs in the bottom of the second due to three defensive lapses by the Panthers.

In game two the Panthers mustered just three singles as St. Francis scored single runs in the first, second and fourth innings and two in the fifth for the difference.

Josh Earegood (1-5) took the loss, allowing all five runs on eight hits and two walks. Scott Marks came on and recorded two shutout innings in relief, allowing three hits while striking out one.

The Panthers will play again tomorrow when they travel to Gary to take on Indiana University Northwest in a non-conference doubleheader at 11 a.m.

The Purdue North Central baseball team split a doubleheader with Judson College Tuesday afternoon in Westville. The Panthers lost the first game 8-5 before recovering to win game two 3-2 in nine innings. PNC is now 26-17 overall and 13-5 in the Chicagoland Collegiate Athletic Conference, while the Eagles moved to 20-16 and 8-8.

In game one the Panthers fell 8-5 after falling behind 5-0. Judson scored four runs in the first, one in the second, one in the third and two in the fourth. The Panthers scored three in the first, one in the fourth and one in the sixth.

Judson scored their eight runs on 14 hits and took advantage of two PNC errors, while the Panthers scored five runs on 13 hits, but left nine men on base.

Steve Hudson, Jake Pierce, Steve Georgion, Chris Stocker, Mike Zolper and Dave Dickerson all had two hits for PNC with Stocker leading the way with a double and two RBI's. Pierce and Dickerson each added a double apiece.

Shaun Kuhns took the loss for the Panthers, allowing eight runs (five earned) on 10 hits while striking out two. Josh Earegood pitched four shutout innings in relief, allowing just four hits while striking out one.

In game two the Panthers needed extra innings to pull out the 3-2 victory. Brian Phillips started for PNC and allowed two runs on six hits and one walk while striking out one in five innings of work. Tom Albano came on and picked up the win, moving his record to 4-0. He didn't allow a runner to reach base in four innings of relief while striking out seven.

The Panthers scored three runs on nine hits and committed one error, scoring single runs in the second, fifth and ninth. Judson scored their two runs in the fifth inning and collected six hits overall while committing two errors.

Chad Pierce led the Panther offensive attack with three hits, including a double, while Hudson added two more hits for the Panthers. Dickerson added another double and eventually scored the winning run when Jake Pierce reached on an error by the first baseman with two outs in the ninth.

The Panthers will play again on Saturday when they travel to Joliet , IL to take on St. Francis in a CCAC doubleheader. First pitch is scheduled for 12 p.m.

The Purdue North Central baseball team split a doubleheader with the University of St. Francis Sunday afternoon in Westville, winning the first game 8-4 and dropping the second game 9-8. The Panthers moved to 25-16 overall while the Cougars moved to 11-29.

In game one the Panthers scored eight runs on six hits and committed one error while St. Francis scored four runs on five hits with two errors. The Cougars scored two runs each in the first and third innings, while PNC scored two in the first, five in the fourth and one in the sixth.

Senior Steve Georgion led the way with two hits, including a double and his sixth home run of the year, and two RBI's. Freshman Adam Kennedy had a bases clearing double and three RBI's, while junior Nestor Allende connected for his first round tripper of the year.

Sophomore Andrew Dahman (4-1) picked up the win, allowing four runs on three hits and three walks while striking out one.

Sophomore Ryan Curless made his first appearance of the year for the Panthers and pitched 1.2 innings of scoreless relief, also walking three and striking out one. Junior Tom Albano picked up his seventh save of the year, striking out two in 1.1 innings of relief.

In game two St. Francis scored nine runs on 10 hits and committed two errors while the Panthers scored eight runs on 11 hits and also committed two errors.

The Cougars scored two in the first, three in the second and fourth innings and one in the sixth while PNC scored three in the first, two in the second and three in the fifth.

Senior Lance Losinski (0-2) picked up the loss despite two strong innings in relief of freshman Kevin Scott. Losinski allowed one run in two innings while Scott gave up eight runs (seven earned) in three innings. Junior Scott Marks pitched the final two innings for the Panthers, striking out two while not allowing a run or a hit.

Offensively, the Panthers were led by Allende, who collected three hits, including his second round tripper of the year, and two RBI's. Junior Jake Pierce added three hits and two RBI's while freshman Mike Zolper and senior Chad Pierce contributed two hits apiece, with Pierce knocking a double.

The Panthers will play again on Tuesday when they host Judson College at 1 p.m. in a Chicagoland Collegiate Athletic Conference doubleheader.

The Purdue North Central baseball team swept a doubleheader from visiting Cardinal Stritch University Saturday afternoon in Westville. The Panthers won the first game 10-3 and took the second game 10-0 in five innings. PNC is now 24-15 overall and 12-4 in the Chicagoland Collegiate Athletic Conference, while the Timberwolves fell to 9-23 and 2-8.

In game one Shaun Kuhns moved his record to 5-2 with four shutout innings, allowing just four hits while striking out one.

The Panthers had 10 runs on 13 hits and committed one error while Cardinal Stritch scored three runs on 11 hits and also committed one error. PNC scored one run in the first, three in the second, five in the third and one in the sixth while the Timberwolves scored one in the fifth and two in the sixth.

Offensively, the Panthers were led by Steve Hudson with three hits and two RBI's, including his second homer of the year. Chris Stocker added two hits, including his seventh home run, and Mike Zolper added three singles and three RBI's. Doubles were turned in by Nestor Allende and Dave Dickerson. Every starter had a hit except for Steve Georgion, who reached on a walk.

In game two Josh Earegood (1-4) picked up his first win of the year with five shutout innings, allowing just one hit while striking out four.

The Panthers scored five runs in the first inning, one in the third, three in the fourth and one in the fifth.

Every starter had a hit except for Adam Kennedy, who reached on an error. Steve Georgion led the way with a double and four RBI's while Jake Pierce and Chad Pierce had two hits apiece with Chad driving in two runs. Chris Stocker and Dave Dickerson added triples for the Panthers.

The Panthers play again tomorrow at 12 p.m. verses St. Francis (IN). Scheduled starters for the Panthers are Andrew Dahman in game one and Kevin Scott in game two.

The PNC baseball team swept a doubleheader from visiting Aquinas College Wednesday afternoon in Westville. Both games were tightly contested with PNC pulling out identical 3-2 victories. The Panthers moved to 22-15 overall while the Saints fell to 19-17.

In game one, the Panthers were led by the strong pitching of Brian Phillips. Phillips improved to 5-3, allowing two runs (one earned) on five hits while striking out one. Tom Albano returned from an injury to secure his fifth save of the year, ending the game on a strikeout.

The Panthers scored two runs in the first inning and one in the second while Aquinas managed single runs in the fifth and seventh innings.

PNC had eight hits and were led by John Selman and Jake Pierce (double) with two hits each, while Steve Hudson and Chris Stocker added an RBI apiece.

In game two Aquinas held a 1-0 lead before the Panthers scratched out their first hit and eventually scored three runs in the sixth inning. The Saints added a run in the seventh before Albano worked his way out of a bases loaded jam with a strikeout to end the game for his sixth save of the year. The six saves broke the school record of five which Albano set last year.

Lance Losinski pitched four strong innings for the Panthers, allowing one run on four hits while walking four and striking out four.

Scott Marks moved his record to 4-1 with 2.2 innings of relief, allowing one run while striking out two.

PNC managed just three hits overall, one apiece by Mike Zolper, Chris Stocker and Dave Dickerson. Zolper broke up the no-hitter with a lead-off bunt in the sixth. Stocker drove in the first run with an RBI single before Dickerson landed the big blow with a two run double.

The Panthers will play again on Saturday when they host Cardinal Stritch University in a CCAC doubleheader scheduled for 1 p.m.

Saturday is Business Appreciation day for the Panthers, as they will recognize companies who made significant contributions to the Panther Athletic Department throughout the year.

The Purdue North Central baseball team split a non-conference doubleheader with Goshen College Tuesday afternoon in Goshen . The Panthers moved to 20-15 overall while Goshen improved to 9-27.

In game one the Panthers fell 5-3 as the Maple Leafs rallied from a 3-1 deficit by scoring four runs in the sixth inning for the difference.

Andrew Dahman allowed three runs on eight hits and two walks while striking out one in 5.2 innings of work for the Panthers.

The Panthers knocked out 10 hits but failed to get them when they counted, as they left eight men on base.

Jake Pierce, Steve Hudson and Nestor Allende had two hits apiece with Hudson adding a double and a RBI. Steve Georgion and Chris Cappello also added RBI's for the Panthers.

In game two the Panthers won 6-2 behind the strong pitching effort of freshman Kevin Scott. Scott threw his first collegiate complete game, allowing both runs on seven hits and one walk while punching out four.

The Panthers added 13 more hits and were led by Chris Stocker's three hits and two RBI's. Stocker had a double and launched his sixth homer of the year for PNC. Mark Myszkowski also had three hits while Hudson and Pierce added two hits each. Chris Cappello led the way for PNC with three RBI's.

PNC will play again tomorrow when they host Aquinas College at 1 p.m in another non-conference doubleheader.

The Purdue North Central baseball team split a doubleheader with Trinity Christian College Monday afternoon in Palos Heights , IL . The Panthers moved to 19-14 overall and 10-4 in the Chicagoland Collegiate Athletic Conference, while the Trolls moved to 12-16 and 7-5.

In game one the Panthers blew a 4-1 lead with two outs in the seventh inning and fell 5-4 in nine innings. PNC scored four runs on eight hits and committed three errors while TCC scored five runs on 10 hits and had five errors.

Shawn Kuhns pitched 6.2 strong innings, allowing nine hits and four runs (three earned) for the Panthers.

All eight hits for the Panthers came from the top of the lineup as the bottom five combined for a 0 for 18 day. Jake Pierce, Steve Hudson, Steve Georgion and Chris Stocker all had two hits apiece, with Stocker leading the way with two RBI's and Georgion contributing a double.

In game two the Panthers rallied for a 3-2 win in eight innings. PNC scored their runs on nine hits and didn't commit an error while TCC had four hits and committed one error. The Panthers scored single runs in the third, seventh and eighth innings while the Trolls scored two runs in the sixth.

PNC's winning run scored on a straight steal of home by Georgion with two outs and two strikes on the batter.

Josh Earegood took a no hitter and a 1-0 lead into the sixth inning before the Trolls rallied for their two runs. Earegood gave up three hits while walking five and striking out three in 5.1 innings of work. Scott Marks earned the win with 2.2 innings of scoreless relief and gave up just one hit to move to 3-1.

John Selman collected three hits for the Panthers while Mike Zolper and Steve Hudson added two hits apiece. Hudson added an RBI as did Dave Dickerson who drove in the tying run on a fielder's choice in the seventh to force extra innings.

The Panthers will play again tomorrow when they travel to Goshen College to play a non-conference doubleheader at 2 p.m. (e.t.)

The Purdue North Central baseball team dropped an 8-7 decision to St. Xavier Friday afternoon in Chicago. The Panthers are now 18-13 overall and 9-3 in conference while St. Xavier moved to 13-12 and 6-1.

The Panthers held a 7-1 after five innings of play, but St. Xavier scored five runs in the sixth inning, one in the seventh and one in the 10th for the come-from-behind victory.

The Panthers scored single runs in the third and fourth innings and added two runs in the fifth and three in the sixth.

PNC scored their seven runs on 11 hits and committed three errors while the Cougars scored eight runs on 16 hits with no errors.

Overall, the Panthers were led by Chad Pierce and Adam Kennedy who had two hits and one RBI each. Steve Georgion added a hit and two RBI's while Pierce, Steve Hudson and Mike Zolper each had a double.

The Panthers wasted a strong effort by Shaun Kuhns, who allowed just one run in five innings of work.

The Panthers will play again tomorrow when they host Judson College in a CCAC doubleheader at 1 p.m.

The Purdue North Central baseball team swept a doubleheader from Trinity International University Monday afternoon in Westville. The Panthers are now 18-12 overall and 9-2 in the Chicagoland Collegiate Athletic Conference.

In game on Brian Phillips moved his record to 4-2 with a complete game effort, allowing just two runs (one earned) on seven hits while striking out four in the 4-2 victory.

The Panthers managed six hits by six different players and were led by Tony Popov with two RBI's and an RBI double by Jake Pierce.

The Panthers scored three runs in the second inning and one in the fourth while Trinity International had single runs in the third and fourth innings.

In game two Shaun Kuhns pitched 4.2 innings of scoreless relief, allowing three hits while striking out three as the Panthers won 4-3. Kuhns also moved his record to 4-2.

Trinity International jumped out to a 3-0 lead, scoring one run in the second inning and two in the third inning. They scored their runs on five hits and took advantage of five walks.

PNC battled back in the bottom of the third inning behind a two run homer by Dave Dickerson, his first of the year. The Panthers added two more runs in the fourth inning to complete the scoring.

The Panthers had seven hits overall by seven different players and were led by Dickerson, and RBI hits from Popov and Steve Hudson (double).

The Panthers will play again when they host Indiana University Northwest in a doubleheader on Wednesday at 2 p.m.

A complete all-around effort allowed the PNC baseball team to sweep Calumet College of St. Joseph Monday afternoon in Westville.

The Panthers won the first game 8-2 on 11 hits, a complete game effort from pitcher Shaun Kuhns and didn't commit an error.

Kuhns (3-2) allowed two runs (one earned) on five hits while striking out seven and walking four.

Offensively, the Panthers scored one run in the first, four in the third, two in the fourth and one in the fifth. CCSJ scored solo runs in the fifth and seventh innings.

Individually, the Panthers were led by Chris Stocker's three hits and two RBI's while Steve Georgion added a homer and three RBI's. Georgion and Stocker each collected their fifth homers of the year when they went back-to-back in the third inning.

Steve Hudson and Jake Pierce added two hits apiece with Hudson picking up an RBI triple.

In game two the Panthers won 8-1 on 14 hits, solid pitching and another great defensive performance (no errors).

Andrew Dahman pitched six strong innings giving up one run on four hits while striking out four and walking one. Jon Charlson concluded the day with a scoreless and hitless seventh inning.

Georgion led the way with three hits, including two triples and a double while adding two RBI's. John Selman also had three hits (one double) while Chad Pierce, Jake Pierce (double), and Adam Kennedy (double) contributed two hits apiece. Jake Pierce added two RBI's and two stolen bases to his totals.

The Panthers are now 16-12 overall and 7-2 in the CCAC. They will play again on Friday when they host Trinity International in a CCAC doubleheader at 1 p.m.

The Purdue North Central baseball team split a doubleheader with the Illinois Institute of Technology Sunday in Westville.

In game one the Panthers fell 4-2 despite a solid pitching performance from Brian Phillips. Phillips allowed four runs in 6.1 innings while striking out five and walking three. IIT scored all their runs in the third inning on back-to-back home runs. Tom Albano came on and recorded the final two outs for the Panthers.

The Panthers scored single runs in the second and sixth innings, but managed just four hits on the day, by just two players. Tony Popov and John Selman had two hits apiece with Popov contributing a double and a stolen base and Selman driving in both runs.

In game two the Panthers used an offensive outburst to win 10-8. PNC fell behind 5-0 in the top of the first but responded with five runs in the bottom of the first to tie it.

IIT scored two runs in the second and one in third to move ahead 8-5. PNC responded with two runs in the fifth and three runs in the sixth for the final score.

Winning pitcher Scott Marks (1-1) was sharp in relief, pitching four scoreless innings allowing just two hits while striking out three. Marks came in for Lance Losinski who gave up all eight runs (four earned) on six hits and four walks. Tom Albano pitched a scoreless seventh and struck out one to earn his fourth save.

Steve Hudson led the Panthers 11-hit attack with four knocks including two doubles, two RBI's and a stolen base. Chris Stocker added two doubles and an RBI and Jake Pierce hit his first home run of the season and added two RBI's. John Selman and Josh Earegood added a double and one RBI each.

The Panthers are now 14-12 overall and 5-2 in the Chicagoland Collegiate Athletic Conference. They play again tomorrow when they host Calumet College of St. Joseph in anther CCAC doubleheader. First pitch is scheduled for 1 p.m.

The Purdue North Central baseball team fell 5-3 to visiting St. Xavier Thursday afternoon in Westville. The Panthers fell to 13-11 overall and 4-1 in the Chicagoland Collegiate Athletic Conference while St. Xavier moved to 10-8 and 4-0.

St. Xavier scored their five runs on six hits while taking advantage of four Panther errors. They scored three runs in the first inning and one each in the second and ninth innings and left eight men on base.

The Panthers scored their three runs on 12 hits and scored one run in the third inning and two in the fourth while leaving 11 men on base, including the tying runs on second and third in the ninth inning with one out. St. Xavier did not commit an error and struck out 11 Panthers overall.

Senior pitcher Josh Earegood (0-4) pitched 6.2 innings giving up four runs (one earned) on six hits while striking out six and walking three. Junior Tom Albano allowed one unearned run in 2.1 innings of relief on one hit while punching out two.

Offensively, the Panthers were led by senior Steve Georgion with three hits while sophomores Dave Dickerson and John Selman added two hits each. Dickerson drove in a run in the fourth inning with a base hit while junior Chris Stocker added an RBI on his fourth homer of the year, also in the fourth inning. The Panthers first run came in the third inning when Tony Popov grounded into a double play scoring Dickerson.

The Panthers will play again on Saturday when they travel to Calumet College of St. Joseph for a doubleheader starting at 12 p.m. in another CCAC match-up.

The Purdue North Central baseball team swept Olivet Nazarene (IL) in a doubleheader Monday afternoon in Westville. The Panthers moved to 13-10 overall and 4-0 in the Chicagoland Collegiate Athletic Conference while the Tigers fell to 12-9 and 4-2.

In game one junior Brian Phillips moved his record to 3-1 with a complete game performance. Phillips allowed seven hits while striking out one and walking no one. The Tigers scored their only run in the fifth inning.

Offensively, the Panthers scored six runs on eight hits and took advantage of four Tiger errors. The Panthers scored one run in the first and five in the fourth to break it open.

Senior Chad Pierce had two hits, including a double, and two RBI's for PNC. Senior Steve Hudson added two hits and senior Tony Popov added a double and one RBI. Solo RBI's were turned in by juniors Chris Stocker and Jake Pierce.

In game two the Panthers won behind another strong pitching performance. This time senior Shaun Kuhns (2-2) allowed just one run in the fourth inning while pitching six innings overall. He gave up five hits while striking out four and walking two. Junior Tom Albano came on to earn his third save of the year by pitching a scoreless seventh while allowing just a walk.

The Panthers scored a single run in the third and three in the sixth for the difference, while collecting nine hits overall.

Freshman Adam Kennedy provided the offensive fireworks with three hits, including a two-run triple in the sixth. Popov added an RBI on his third homerun of the year in the third inning, while Stocker and Chad Pierce collected two hits apiece, including a double by Pierce. Sophomore Dave Dickerson added an RBI on a sacrifice fly in the sixth inning.

Great defensive plays were turned in by Popov at third base that ended Tiger scoring opportunities. He made a diving backhanded stop that led to a force out at the plate in the fourth inning and a sliding catch of a popup in the seventh inning.

It was the first time in program history that PNC swept Olivet Nazarene.

The Panthers will play again this Thursday when they host St. Xavier in a single game at 3 p.m.

The Purdue North Central baseball team split a doubleheader verses Ripon College Saturday afternoon in Ripon Wisconsin . The Panthers are now 11-10 overall while Ripon moved to 3-8.

The Panthers were originally scheduled to have an off day. But heavy rains forced PNC to hit the road and travel out of the region in order to stay sharp.

In game one, the Panthers were anything but sharp as they lost 12-5 while committing two errors, walking five, allowing one passed ball, throwing two wild pitches and failing to turn three double plays. The Panthers also gave up 12 hits in perhaps their worst outing of the year.

The Panthers pounded out 11 hits but couldn't overcome their defensive lapses and the strong Ripon offense. Seniors Steve Hudson, Tony Popov and Steve Georgion and juniors Jake Pierce and Nestor Allende all had two hits apiece. Allende had two doubles while Georgion and Pierce had one each.

The Panthers jumped out to a 5-2 lead but Ripon tied it in the bottom of the third and scored seven runs in their final three at bats to secure the win.

The losing pitcher was junior Scott Marks (1-1) who allowed nine runs on six hits and three walks in three innings of work.

In game two the Panthers rebounded for a strong 7-3 victory behind the solid pitching of sophomore Andrew Dahman. Dahman (2-1) gave up three runs on four hits and two walks in six innings of work. Junior Jon Charlson added two scoreless innings and junior Tom Albano pitched a scoreless ninth to hold Ripon in check.

The Panthers rapped out 13 more hits, including two each by junior Chris Stocker, senior Chad Pierce, sophomore John Selman and freshman Adam Kennedy. Stocker socked his third homerun of the year and drove in two runs while Hudson , Georgion, Selman and the Pierce brothers all added doubles.

The Panthers will play again on Monday when they host Olivet Nazarene in a doubleheader at 1 p.m. in a Chicagoland Collegiate Athletic Conference match-up.

Head coach John Weber recently announced three changes to the 2007 baseball schedule.

Today the Panthers games verses the University of St. Francis were cancelled due to heavy rains. The Panthers, currently 10-9 overall and 2-0 in the CCAC, have tentatively rescheduled those games for Monday, April 2nd.

PNC has also added three games to their schedule. Tomorrow the Panthers will travel to Wisconsin and take on Ripon College in a doubleheader at 1 p.m. Last year Ripon finished 34-7 overall and fell just short of the NCAA, Division III World Series after winning the Midwest Conference championship with a perfect 16-0 mark.

The Panthers have added a NCAA, Division I opponent to their schedule as well. The Panthers will travel to the University of Illinois at Chicago for a nine inning game at 3:05 p.m. Last season UIC finished 35-20 and were the regular season Horizon League Champions.

The Purdue North Central baseball team increased their winning streak to five games with a sweep of Grace College Monday afternoon in Westville. It was the home opener for the Panthers.

PNC won the first game behind the pitching of junior Scott Marks who was making his first start of the year. Marks allowed two runs on five hits while striking out four and walking one in the complete game, 74 pitch effort.

The Panthers scored eight runs on nine hits and took advantage of three Grace errors. Junior Chris Stocker and senior Steve Georgion both had two hits, including a double each, and an RBI. Senior Chad Pierce had a two-run double while his brother, junior Jake Pierce added two hits and an RBI. Sophomore John Selman added a run-scoring double and senior Tony Popov contributed an RBI sacrifice fly.

In game two sophomore lefty Andrew Dahman (1-1) pitched six shutout innings in his first start of the year and junior Tom Albano added a scoreless inning for his second save.

The Panthers mustered six hits and scored both of their runs in the third inning. Sophomore Chris Cappello led the way with two hits while Chad Pierce collected both RBI's. Solid defensive plays were turned in by senior shortstop Steve Hudson and freshman catcher Adam Kennedy.

The Panthers, now 10-9 overall, are scheduled to play again on Friday against the University of St. Francis in Fort Wayne , IN at 1 p.m. (e.t.) in a doubleheader.

The PNC baseball team swept a doubleheader from Robert Morris College Saturday afternoon in Midlothian, IL . It was the conference opener for both teams.

In game one, junior Brian Phillips (2-1) pitched a complete game, allowing 10 hits, four runs and three walks while striking out four in the 10-4 victory.

The Panthers jumped out to 5-0 lead before Robert Morris scored four in the bottom of the third inning to make it 5-4. PNC responded with one run in the fourth and four in the sixth for the final score.

The Panthers managed seven hits but took advantage of 10 walks and two Eagle errors for the difference. Senior Steve Georgion led the way with three hits, three runs and an RBI while sophomore John Selman drove in three runs. Freshman Nick Ullmann, sophomore Dave Dickerson and junior Jake Pierce drove in one run each.

In game two, the Panthers took an early lead but needed a late rally for the 4-3 win in eight innings. The Panthers led 2-0 entering the fourth, before Robert Morris scored single runs in the fourth, fifth and sixth innings for a 3-2 lead.

In the top of the seventh, senior Steve Hudson led off with a walk and was advanced to second by a sacrifice bunt by senior Tony Popov. Georgion laced a single to right field to drive in Hudson and tie the score.

In the eighth, Dickerson drove in Jake Pierce with the winning run on a line single to center field.

The winning pitcher was junior Tom Albano. Albano pitched three hitless innings while striking out four and walking one. He came on in relief of senior Shawn Kuhns, who allowed three runs (one earned) in five innings of work.

The Panthers are now 8-9 overall and will play a doubleheader on Monday verses Grace College in their home opener at 1 p.m.

The Purdue North Central baseball team was back in action for the first time after their return from their 10 day trip to Florida. The Panthers split a doubleheader with Bethel College Friday afternoon in Mishawaka, IN.

In game one the Panthers fell 4-2 despite the strong pitching from senior Josh Earegood. Earegood (0-3) allowed just three hits and one earned run while striking out five. Unfortunately, he also walked seven batters and hit one, three of which turned into runs.

Bethel scored single runs in the first and third innings and scored two on a controversial call in the sixth inning.

Offensively, PNC managed just five hits and scored in just the fourth inning. Senior Tony Popov hit his first homerun of the season, a solo shot to cut Bethel 's lead to 2-1. Junior Jake Pierce drove in the other run on a groundout to tie the score, but Bethel 's two runs in the sixth proved to be the difference.

In game two PNC rebounded for a 10-5 come-from-behind victory. The Panthers jumped out to a 2-0 lead in the first but Bethel took a 3-2 lead after two innings. PNC tied the score in the third but Bethel took a 5-3 lead after four innings.

The Panthers responded with three runs in the fifth inning and four in the sixth to take control of the game.

Freshman Kevin Scott moved his record to 2-0 by allowing five runs in four innings of work. Junior Jon Charlson picked up his second save by pitching three scoreless innings of relief.

The Panthers pounded out 14 hits and were led by senior Steve Georgion. Georgion had three hits, including a double and a mammoth homerun, drove in three and scored three runs. Sophomore John Selman added three hits, including a double, three RBI's and two stolen bases.

Popov connected on his second homer of the day and added two hits, two RBI and three runs for PNC. Pierce and junior Nestor Allende added two hits apiece with Pierce picking up a double and Allende an RBI. Senior Steve Hudson and freshman Nick Ullman added doubles for the Panthers.

The Panthers are now 6-9 overall and will take on Robert Morris College in a doubleheader for their conference opener tomorrow in Midlothian , IL at 12 p.m.

The Purdue North Central Baseball team finished 5-5 on their spring trip to Pensacola, Florida . The Panthers had several impressive performances as all five victories came against teams that were nationally ranked or receiving votes to be ranked.

Friday, March 2nd verses Spalding University :

PNC left on Friday morning and traveled to Louisville, KY to take on Spalding University for their first game. Spalding was currently receiving votes in the NAIA national rankings. The Panthers took a 3-2 lead into the sixth inning behind the strong pitching of senior Shawn Kuhns. But Spalding scored three runs in the sixth to take a 5-3 lead.

The Panthers responded with single runs in the seventh and ninth to force extra innings before winning the game with two runs in the tenth for a 7-5 outcome.

Junior Tom Albano earned the win to move to 1-0. Albano allowed just one base runner on a walk and struck out five in 2.1 innings. Junior Jon Charlson pitched well in middle relief, holding Spalding scoreless for two innings before handing the ball to Albano .

The Panthers out-hit the Golden Eagles 16-8 but left 13 runners on base. Leading the way for PNC was junior Chris Stocker with four hits, including a double, and two RBI in six at bats. Seniors Tony Popov, Steve Georgion and Chad Pierce, junior Jake Pierce, sophomore Dave Dickerson and freshman Nick Ullmann all added two hits apiece. Chad Pierce and Ullmann each had two RBI's while Jake Pierce added the game winning RBI.

Two baggers were turned in by Jake Pierce, Chad Pierce, Ullmann and Dickerson while Popov added a triple.

Sunday, March 4th verses Urbanna College

After a travel day on Saturday the Panthers returned to action against Urbana, another team receiving votes in the national rankings.

PNC took control early in the game and held on for a 7-3 victory in the nine inning game. The Panthers started out with three runs in the first inning and added solo runs in the fourth and sixth and two more in the seventh. Urbanna scored two in the fifth and one in the eighth.

PNC had nine hits but committed four errors to keep the game close. Sophomore John Selman led the way with three hits, including a double and an RBI. Chad Pierce and senior Steve Hudson (double) pounded out two hits apiece with Pierce picking up two RBI. Georgion, Stocker and Hudson added one RBI each.

Junior winning pitcher Brian Phillips (1-0) pitched 7.2 strong innings, allowing just one earned run before junior closer Tom Albano came on to earn his first save of the season. Albano pitched 1.1 innings and struck out one while not allowing a hit.

Sunday, March 4th verses Madonna University

In game two of the split doubleheader, the Panthers took on Madonna University, the 25 th ranked team in the country in a seven inning game.

Unfortunately, poor defense proved costly for the Panthers as they gave up four unearned runs in the 5-0 defeat. The Panthers were also shut down by sensational pitching from Madonna and mustered just three hits.

Senior Josh Earegood (0-2) was the hard luck loser, allowing just one earned run and five hits while striking out four in five innings of work. Freshman Jesse Cartagena made his first collegiate appearance and pitched a scoreless inning for the Panthers.

Chad Pierce, Ullmann and Selman had the only hits for PNC with Ullmann's double being the lone extra base hit.

Monday, March 5th verses Concordia University (MI)

The Panthers traveled to Jefferson Davis Community College just over the border in Alabama and fell 7-5 to Concordia University (MI) on Monday.

Freshman Matt Morris made his first career start for the Panthers and didn't make it out of the first inning. Morris allowed two hits and three walks while lasting just one-third of an inning.

Sophomore Andrew Dahman (0-1) pitched well in relief, but gave up three unearned runs and walked three while taking the loss. Junior Scott Marks made his first appearance as a Panther and gave up two runs (one earned) in 3.2 innings. Charlson came on and pitched a scoreless inning for PNC.

The combination of four Panther errors, nine walks from the PNC pitchers and seven timely hits by Concordia cost the black and gold. Both teams left a whopping 12 runners on base, including PNC leaving the tying runs on second and third with one out in the ninth.

Georgion had two hits and Chad Pierce added two RBI's to lead the Panthers. Popov added a double and Ullman, Selman and Stocker added RBI's.

Tuesday, March 6th verses William Penn College (doubleheader)

The Panthers looked to end their two game skid against another team receiving votes in the poles. However, the Panthers dropped two by the scores of 8-3 and 11-1.

In game one the difference was William Penn knocking in seven of their eight runs with two outs while the Panthers left 12 more on base.

Kuhns (0-2) took the loss in game one, giving up six runs on nine hits with three strikeouts in five innings. Dahman gave up two unearned runs in the sixth and Cartagena pitched another scoreless inning.

The Panthers out hit William Penn 13-11 and were led by Ullmann' four hits and an RBI. Chad Pierce, Georgion, Hudson and freshman Mike Zolper added two hits each with Hudson connecting on his first homerun of the season. Selman drove in the third run for PNC.

In game two senior John Lackinger made his first career start for the Panthers and pitched four strong innings. With PNC trailing 3-1 entering the fifth, the Statesmen exploded for six runs and added three more in the sixth to win by the ten run rule. Lackinger gave up seven runs on 10 hits and four walks in 4.1 innings while freshman Craig Burden allowed four runs in two-thirds of an inning.

Several new players saw action for the Panthers with sophomore Chris Capello driving in the lone run on a single. PNC had just six hits overall by six different players with Dickerson's double being the only extra base hit.

Wednesday, March 7th verses Madonna University

The Panthers looked to end their four game losing streak against the 25 th ranked team in the country. The odds looked slim as PNC was struggling and they were sending freshman Kevin Scott to the mound for his first career appearance.

But Scott took advantage of his opportunity and pitched into the sixth inning to give the Panthers the spark they needed in the 13-5 victory. Scott moved to 1-0 by allowing five runs (four earned) on 12 hits while striking out three with no walks in 5.2 innings. Charlson came on and slammed the door shut with 3.1 innings of scoreless relief for his first save.

Both teams provided offensive fireworks with 15 hits apiece. But the Panthers hit six homeruns compared to Madonna's three for the difference in the game.

In the first inning Stocker hit a grand slam to give PNC a 4-1 lead on his first homerun of the season. Chad Pierce followed with his first homerun of the season and John Selman added his first career round tripper for back to back to back homers and a 6-1 lead after one inning.

The Panthers added two more runs in the second and third innings on homeruns by Georgion and another by Selman. After Madonna trimmed the lead to 9-5, the Panthers put the game away on a three run dinger by Stocker in the sixth.

Stocker finished with three hits, including two homeruns and seven RBI. Selman added four hits including his two round trippers and a double while picking up two RBI. Georgion also collected four hits including a double to go with his homerun to lead the Panthers.

Friday, March 9th verses William Penn College (doubleheader)

PNC took to the field verses William Penn after an off day on Thursday. The Statesmen won 6-0 in game one behind a strong pitching performance.

The Panthers also received strong pitching from Phillips but poor defense led to four unearned runs to break the game open. PNC also failed to get the clutch hit with their limited opportunities as they collected just six hits on the day.

Phillips went the distance, allowing nine hits and just two earned runs in six innings. Six different players accounted for the six Panther hits, but PNC left the bases loaded in the fifth with just one out and an opportunity to cut into William Penn's lead.

In game two PNC rebounded for a 6-3 win to move to 4-5 on the trip. The Panthers knocked out 12 hits and took advantage of strong pitching by Earegood and Albano for the win.

PNC jumped out to a 3-0 lead but the Statesmen tied the score with three runs with two outs in the fifth inning. Georgion's third homerun of the season gave the Panthers a 4-3 lead heading into the sixth before they added two insurance runs for the final margin.

Earegood gave up three runs on four hits and struck out two in 4.1 innings. Albano earned the win by pitching 2.2 innings of scoreless relief.

Georgion's two hits and two RBI's led the Panthers while Stocker, Popov and Chad Pierce also had two hits. Pierce collected a double and two RBI's while Stocker had a double as well.

Saturday, March 10th verses Fisher College (MA)

The black and gold ended their trip with a single game verses Fisher College, another team receiving votes in the NAIA national rankings.

The Panther offense struggled early on as Fisher took a 2-1 lead into the sixth inning. But PNC exploded for five runs in the sixth and added two more in the eighth in the 8-4 victory. The Panthers had 19 hits but left 13 on base.

Senior Shawn Kuhns (1-2) made his third start of the trip and gave up three runs while striking out three in 7.1 innings. Marks finished the game by allowing one run in 1.2 innings of relief.

Several Panthers had big offensive days. Selman had four hits and an RBI, Jake Pierce had three hits and three RBI's, Chad Pierce had three hits, Hudson had three hits and an RBI, Ullmann added two hits and two RBI's and Popov added two more hits. Doubles were turned in by Ullman and Hudson.

"Overall, the trip proved to be very successful as we challenged ourselves with a difficult schedule to prepare us for our tough conference slate," said Head Coach John Weber. "We were able to learn a lot about our team and came back with many positives heading into our northern schedule."

After returning home on Sunday, the Panthers play again on Thursday at Bethel College with the first pitch scheduled for 1 p.m (e.t.).  

The Purdue North Central baseball team opened their season by dropping three straight to Christian Brothers University , a NCAA Division II school from the difficult Gulf South Conference. The Bucs improved to 7-4 on the season.

In game one the Panthers fell 6-3 despite the complete game effort of senior Shawn Kuhns. The lefty allowed six runs on 11 hits while walking one and striking out three.

"We weren't planning on Shawn going the distance right out of the shoot," said Head Coach John Weber. "But he only threw 73 pitches in the game."

Freshman Nick Ullman led the offensive attack with two hits, an RBI and a stolen base. Junior Chris Stocker and sophomore John Selman also added two hits, including a double each. Senior Tony Popov added an RBI and junior Jake Pierce contributed a double to the Panthers eight hits.

In the second game of the series the Panthers gave one away 9-7. PNC took a 7-5 lead into the sixth inning of a seven inning game before several lapses in the infield cost them the victory.

Senior Lance Losinski took the loss in relief of junior Brian Phillips. Phillips allowed five runs in four innings and Losinski gave up four unearned runs in one inning of work.

Once again, the Panthers had eight hits, three from senior Steve Georgion. Georgion had a solo home run and a double while Stocker and senior Chad Pierce added two RBI. Selman added another RBI and Popov contributed two more hits.

In the final game the Panthers were hammered 14-4 after their pitchers allowed 15 walks in the game. The losing pitcher was senior Josh Earegood who moved to 0-1.

The Panthers knocked out 11 hits but stranded seven runners on base. Georgion added three more hits including a double while knocking in two. Stocker added two hits and added two RBI's and a stolen base. Jake Pierce contributed two hits and a stolen base for the Panthers.

"We have a lot of work to do.it was apparent this was our first time on a field," said Weber. "But this is what we wanted - to challenge ourselves right out of the gate to prepare us for the long run."

PNC will now prepare for 10 games on their spring trip to Pensacola , FL and will leave on Friday morning. The Panthers will play Spalding University in Louisville , KY on Friday evening before resuming play on Sunday in Florida after a travel day on Saturday.

The 2007 version of the Purdue North Central baseball team will combine a core of experienced veterans while relying on several newcomers as well.

Last season PNC set the single season wins mark at 32-20 while winning the Chicagoland Collegiate Athletic Conference Tournament and qualifying for the NAIA National Tournament. However, they lost several of their top pitchers to graduation and will look to a bevy of newcomers to lead the way while relying on seven returning starters in the field.

In the outfield, the lone returner is sophomore Dave Dickerson ( Crown Point , IN/Crown Point HS). Dickerson played all 52 games in centerfield last season and hit .279 with three homeruns and 25 RBI's. The young outfielder added seven doubles, two triples and 10 stolen bases to his totals.

This year Dickerson will move over to right field and replace two-year starter Joe Reid, who the Panthers lost to graduation. Reid batted clean-up for PNC last season and finished with a .316 batting average while connecting for 14 doubles and driving in 33 runs while garnering Honorable Mention All Conference honors.

Taking over in centerfield will be junior college transfer Jake Pierce (jr., Crown Point , IN/Crown Point HS). Pierce started in centerfield the past two seasons at Vincennes CC (IN) and hit .315 with eight doubles last season. The speedy lefthander has shown excellent range and solid bat control thus far for the Panthers.

The leftfield spot will be a combination of several players competing for the job. Sophomore John Selman ( Kouts , IN /Kouts HS) has the inside track coming off a strong freshman season. However, Selman's value to the team as a utility player means he might be playing several different spots for PNC.

Last season the wiry right hander hit .310 with 10 doubles, one triple, 25 RBI and 20 stolen bases. He also played every position but pitcher, catcher and shortstop for the Panthers. Selman gained valuable outfield experience last season, playing right field when Reid was on the mound.

Newcomers Nestor Allende and Mike Zolper will also contend for playing time in leftfield. Allende (Puerto Rico) transferred in at break from Tampa University where he was not on the team. However, he was looking to get back into baseball and ended up at PNC through a contact of Coach Weber's.

Zolper ( Hebron , IN /Boone Grove HS) started out at Urbanna University in Ohio but was looking to get closer to home. He saw limited action while there and received a medical hardship following a knee injury. Zolper is a lot like Selman and brings added value to the team as a utility player.

"Our outfield should be very sound defensively," said head coach John Weber. "We have excellent speed and basically have two centerfielders in Pierce and Dickerson to patrol the area."

The Panthers have all four starters back in the infield and look to be strong defensively.

At first base senior Steve Georgion will bring his big left-handed stick and solid defensive skills to the position. Georgion batted .421 with nine doubles, four triples and two homeruns while driving in 33 runs despite missing 16 games with a broken hand.

Second base will be manned by senior Chad Pierce. Pierce hit .413 with seven doubles, four triples, and 29 RBI's in 160 at bats last season in 48 games.

Senior Steve Hudson should hold down the job at shortstop. Hudson batted .245 last season, but did a solid job defensively. Hudson added 17 walks and 21 RBI's while stealing 14 bases.

Third base will be manned by senior Tony Popov (Greenwood, IN/Center Grove HS/Parkland CC). Popov batted .375 lasts season with three homeruns, 38 RBI's, 19 doubles, 10 stolen bases and 46 runs scored while playing all 52 games. He is expected to be a team leader once again.

Freshman Nick Ullman (Crown Point HS/Crown Point, IN) will play all positions in the infield and will contend for the designated hitter role for the Panthers with a strong left handed stick.

Other infielders expected to contend for time include sophomore Chris Capello ( Mt. Carmel HS/Whiting, IN) and freshmen Mark Myszkowski, Matt Piggott and Jay MCCauley. Capello batted .375 in just eight at bats in 2006 but showed a reliable glove. Myszkowski could play all over the field this year as a role player for the Panthers and adds depth and speed to the roster. Piggot and McCauley are both developing left handed hitters that man the corners. McCauley is returning from a broken shoulder that forced him to miss the entire season last year.

Behind the dish the Panthers will look to junior catcher Chris Stocker to lead the way after being named Honorable Mention All-American in 2006. Stocker hit .326 with four home runs, 29 RBI and 12 doubles. He also was a defensive presence, shutting down the opponents' running game and committing only four errors.

Stocker will be joined by two freshmen this season in Adam Kennedy and Steve Babbitt. Kennedy (Crown Point HS/Crown Point, IN) has a solid all-around game and could also fight for time as the designated hitter. Babbitt (North Newton HS/Demotte, IN) has made huge strides defensively and swings a solid bat.

"The infield should be the strength of our team as we look strong up and down the line-up with a good mix both offensively and defensively," said Weber.

The Panthers will be less experienced on the mound and will rely on several newcomers to lead the way.

Returning pitchers include seniors Lance Losinski and Shawn Kuhns, juniors Jon Charlson, and Tom Albano and sophomores Ryan Curless and Andrew Dahman.

Losinski ( Crown Point , IN /Boone Grove HS) was 4-6 last season with a 5.14 ERA in 56 innings pitched. He struck out 52 while holding opponents to a .248 average but is coming off a leg injury from this past fall. Kuhns ( Northbrook , IL /Glenbrook HS/Oakton CC) was 5-3 with a 3.55 ERA and 37 K's in 38 innings pitched and gives PNC a reliable left handed starter.

Charlson (Valparaiso HS/Valparaiso, IN) pitched in relief last year and appeared in 10 games, finishing 0-1 in 15 innings pitched. Albano (Chesterton HS/Chesterton, IN) finished 4-1 with five saves and 1.66 ERA. As the closer, he pitched in a team record 18 games and struck out 20 in 21.2 innings pitched.

Curless (New Prairie HS/LaPorte, IN) and Dahman (Fremont HS/Fremont HS) saw limited action last season. Curless hurt his arm early in the season after pitching in two games and will receive a medical hardship. He looks to be ready by April following recovery from surgery. Dahman pitched in seven games (started one) and finished 0-0 with a 6.75 ERA.

Several newcomers are expected to make an immediate impact. Seniors Josh Earegood (Houghton Lake, MI/Houghton Lake HS/Muskegon CC) and John Lackinger ( Elk Grove Village , IL /Conant HS/Elmhurst College) transferred in and both could eat up quality innings as left handed pitchers.

Junior transfers Scott Marks ( Watervliet , MI /Berrion Springs HS/LeMoyne Owen College) and Brian Phillips ( Elkhart , IN /Elkhart Christian HS/Bethel College) look to join the rotation as reliable three-pitch pitchers. Both have shown the ability to throw any pitch in any count and should also be workhorses for the Panthers. Marks is recovering from a foot injury suffered in January but should be ready by the spring trip.

Four freshmen will also be relied upon for PNC to have another strong year. Leading the way will be Matt Morris (Kouts HS/Kouts, IN). Morris uses his lanky frame to gain leverage and adds a solid curveball to the mix. Craig Burden (Harrison HS/Lafayette, IN) looks to make his mark as a reliever while Kevin Scott (Chesterton HS/Chesterton, IN) and Jesse Cartegena will also add depth to the bullpen.

The Panthers will have to overcome the loss of three top pitchers from last season due to graduation. Reid, when not playing right field, finished 6-3 with a school record 76 innings pitched. The Panthers also lost Tony Robb and John Vucko. Robb was 5-1 in 57.1 innings and Vucko was 6-3 in 58 innings.

"I believe our biggest question mark going into the season is pitching," said Weber. "If we pitch to our potential we'll be all right, but we have a lot of unknowns and opportunities right now for the entire staff."

"Overall, we should compete against all teams and if we progress the way we're capable of, then we have an opportunity to be very successful," said Weber. "I am concerned with the discipline of this group and their sense of entitlement. Talent does not always equal success. If we get everyone on the same page and to buy into the team concept then we'll be all right. But we have to earn everything."

The Panthers are picked to finish fourth in the always difficult CCAC, behind St. Xavier, St. Francis and Olivet Nazarene. St. Xavier advanced to the World Series last year and St. Francis qualified for the Regional along with PNC. Last year the Panthers finished fifth of 11 teams at 11-9 but won the CCAC Tournament to gain the Regional bid.

The Panthers have put together an extremely difficult schedule early on to prepare for conference play. 16 of their first 19 games will be against teams that either qualified for the NAIA National Tournament or their conference tournament last season. And the other three games will be against Christian Brothers University , a NCAA, Division II member of the difficult Gulf Coast Conference. Christian Brothers will also have a significant advantage having been outside with 10 games under their belts when PNC comes into town ( Memphis , TN ).

"We're in this for the long haul," said Weber. "It's true we don't have the facilities or the weather like other schools, but we believe our schedule will pay off in the long run. Besides it's how you finish not how you start."

Weber, now in his thrid season at PNC, has seen the Panthers improve from 18-23-1 in his first year when he took over with just 16 eligible players, to last season's remarkable turn around. He will be joined on the staff by fifth year assistant Chet Ebner and second year assistant Gary Demski. Ebner will lead the hitters and be the bench coach while Demski will continue to lead the defense and make the transition to first base coach this season.

The PNC Varsity baseball team defeated the PNC Old-Timers 10-1 Saturday afternoon at Hicks Field in Westville. The Varsity moved their record in the series to 2-0, following last year's 4-3 victory in the first Old-Timers contest.

The Varsity Panthers jumped out to a 5-0 lead in the bottom of the first behind some wild pitching and timely hitting. Junior outfielder Jared Mrozinske ( LaPorte , IN ) led off the game with a walk. After senior infielder Tony Popov ( Greenwood , IN ) popped out, senior first baseman Steve Georgion ( Valparaiso , IN ) knocked a single and junior catcher Chris Stocker ( Chicago , IL ) was hit by a pitch. Junior Adam Del Rio ( Munster , IN ) had the big hit by connecting on a three-run double to clear the bases.

After senior infielder Chad Pierce ( Crown Point , IN ) popped out, the Varsity Panthers added two more runs. Junior outfielder Jake Pierce ( Crown Point , IN ) walked before senior infielder Steve Hudson ( Addison , IL ) knocked in a run with a double and sophomore outfielder John Selman added another RBI with a single.

The Varsity Panthers added another run in the second inning on a bases loaded walk by Del Rio that scored sophomore outfielder Dave Dickerson (Crown Point, IN) who also reached on a walk.

In the fourth inning the Varsity Panthers scored two more runs on three straight hits. Popov laced a double and scored on another double by Georgion. Stocker plated Georgion with a single to move the score to 8-1.

The Varsity Panthers added single runs in the sixth and eighth innings to cap their scoring. In the sixth, freshman Mark Myszkowski ( St. John , IN ) led off the inning with a single before freshman Matt Piggot ( Peru , IN) knocked him in with a double. In the eighth, freshman J.D. Gilmer ( Mooresville , IN ) reached on a double before scoring on a single by freshman Jay McCauley ( Fremont , IN ).

The Old-Timers scored their lone run in the sixth inning when Lance Losinski (Crown Point, IN - a current varsity member but playing for the Old-timers) led off with a double. After being picked off second, the varsity Panthers threw the ball away at third base allowing Losinski to score.

Overall, the Varsity Panthers collected 10 runs on 14 hits and took advantage of seven walks and one hit batsman. The Old-Timers managed just three hits, four walks and one hit batter while striking out 10 times. Of the eight runners that reached base, three were picked off by the Varsity Panthers.

Losinski led the Old-Timers with two hits while Tony Harris ( Valparaiso , IN , class of 00') added the other. Blake Ebner ( Hebron , IN , class of 04') chipped in with two walks. Harris moved his Old-Timers game hitting streak to two with his fourth inning single.

The winning pitcher for the Varsity Panthers was senior Shawn Kuhns ( Glenbrook , IL ). Larry Blake Sr. absorbed the loss for the Old-Timers. Blake, a PNC Hall of Famer, also managed the Old-Timers for the second straight year and was instrumental in the successful day.

Next year's Old-Timers game is slated for Sept. 15th at 11 a.m.