(Story courtesy of DePauw University website)

ADRIAN, Mich. - DePauw scored two in the first and five in the second and pitcher Emily Bichler tossed her third shutout of the NCAA Division III Softball Regional as the Tigers advanced to the NCAA Finals for the second straight year and third time in the last five seasons with a 7-0 win over Hiram. DePauw improved to 31-9-1, while the Terriers finished the season at 29-14. Box Score | NCAA Site | Official Regional Site

The Tigers open play in the NCAA Finals in Salem, Va. on Friday, May 20, at 4 p.m. against the winner of the Ithaca Regional.

Brianne Weeks singled in the first and moved to second when Jen Kosinski reached on an error. Haley Buchanan then delivered a two-out, two-run double to left center.

The Tigers batted around in the second as Rachel MacBeth and Weeks each singled and moved up a base on a wild pitch. Kosinski singled home MacBeth and Emma Minx doubled scoring Weeks and Kosinski. Buchanan walked and Amy Hallett singled to load the bases and Holly Paris made it 7-0 with a two-run single up the middle.

Hiram had two runners in scoring position with just one out in both the first and third innings, but Emily Bichler pitched out of it both times.

DePauw totaled 12 hits led by MacBeth, Weeks, Buchanan and Paris with two each. Sarah Loyer had two of Hiram's four hits.

Bichler improved to 29-9 with the win, while Lane dropped to 16-9 with the loss.

Hallett, Kosinski, Weeks, Paris, Bichler and MacBeth each earned spots on the regional all-tournament team.