VICKSBURG, Miss. — This weekend,  the Tennessee State University Tiger Softball Team will open the season with four games against HBCUs in the River City Classic in Vicksburg, Mississippi. The Tigers will take on the Xavier University of Louisiana on Saturday morning, with the first pitch at 10 am. At noon, they will face off against Jackson State University.
 
Last season, the Tigers won the first three games of the classic before losing to Jackson State in the final two games. The fast start is something that head coach Genee McRath is looking to mirror.
 
"I want to come out of the gate fast like last year," said McRath. "I believe we have the team to compete at a high level. We have a good mix of experienced players and newcomers to make things happen. This weekend should be fun."
 
 
The Matchup:  Xavier of Louisiana (2-0) vs. Tennessee State Tigers (0-0).  
Date/Time: Saturday, February 11|| 10:00 a.m. (CST)
Location: Sports Force Parks | Vicksburg, Mississippi


The Matchup: Tennessee State Tigers (0-0) at Jackson State
Date/Time: Saturday, February 11|| noon (CST)
Location: Sports Force Parks | Vicksburg, Mississippi

SCOUTING THE TIGERS:
The Tigers finished last season with a 15-39 record. They are picked to finish eighth in the Ohio Valley Conference this year. OF Marisa Mauroschadt is coming off two shoulder surgeries and will be counted on heavily to lead her team with her speed and arm from the outfield. Caitlyn Manus and Holly Ayala will be the top pitchers on the team. Another player to watch will be Nahtali Simpson.
 
SCOUTING XAVIER
Xavier finished last season with a 21-30 record. This year they have started fast, sweeping Southeastern Baptist in a home doubleheader.
 
SCOUTING JACKSON STATE
Jackson State (0-1) ended its 2022 campaign 24-27. JSU fell to SWAC opponent Alcorn State 4-2 on Friday to open their season. JSU capped last season by falling just short of Alabama State in the SWAC Semifinals at the tournament.
 
UP NEXT: The Tigers will have two games on Sunday. Against Grambling State (10 a.m.) and Alcorn State (noon) in the River City Classic