Beth Boden led the NCAA in home runs in 2007 and now she will be playing professional softball for the Rockford Thunder. This season's national home run leader, senior Stephanie Fischer, will now be joining her Tennessee Tech teammate, recently signing a free agent contract with the Thunder, as announced by Thunder General Manager Aaron Moore.
"We are thrilled about brining Stephanie in this season," Moore said. "She had a terrific senior season at Tech, and if she can continue to swing the bat that way, we'll be in great shape."
Fischer, Boden and the Thunder get the 2008 season underway this week with a three-game home series against the Chicago Bandits, beginning Thursday.
Fischer, who leads the NCAA in three different offensive categories this season, finished her senior season being named the 2008 OVC Player of the Year along with All-OVC first-team honors. The NFCA recently named her a first-team all-region selection, which qualifies her for All-America consideration. Her 27 home runs lead all teams across the country and the .452 home runs per game is also first in the NCAA.
Not only does her 1.019 slugging percentage top all batters, but it also ranks third all-time in NCAA history.
"Steph worked really hard this season," said Golden Eagle head coach Tory Acheson. "She was an outstanding member of this team and I look forward to seeing her progress even more in the professional ranks."
The transition to the Thunder will be a comfortable move with Boden on the roster -- the pair has been playing softball together since they were youngsters in west central Wisconsin. Fischer hails from Stevens Point while Boden calls Plover home.
"It's also nice to have a local feel with Steph (Fischer)," Moore said. "Having players like her and Beth (Boden) that are just from a couple hours away is a nice thing."
Golden Eagles fans who want to keep up with the early careers of Boden and Fischer can log onto the team's website at www.thunderprofastpitch.com.