(June 24, 2008)--The University of Mary Hardin-Baylor softball team will be well represented when the USA Softball National Team’s “Bound 4 Beijing” tour stops in Killeen later this week. Five former UMHB softball players will participate in the game and the UMHB coaching staff of head coach Kasey Blomquist and assistant coach Denise Lira will coach Team Texas against the Olympic team.

The five former Cru players all closed out their UMHB careers this spring by leading UMHB to an NCAA Division III National Championships berth for the first time in the program’s history. First baseman Charlsie Cope, catcher Kacie Kripner, pitcher Lindsey Liles, shortstop Katina Penter and outfielder Becca Ribera will all represent UMHB in the game. Team Texas also includes players from the University of Texas, Baylor University, Sam Houston State University, Texas State University and UMHB’s fellow ASC school, U.T.-Tyler.

Team Texas will take on Team USA in a 7:00 PM game in Killeen Wednesday night. For more information on the game, visit the official web site for Team USA softball at usasoftball.com. USA softball is currently 49-1 on its “Bound 4 Beijing” tour. The tour runs through next month before Team USA heads to Beijing to open Olympic play on August 12th.

Two Baylor players are also on the team. They are pitcher Jenny Isham and catcher Courtney Oberg.