Softball Game Preview: Illiana Christian Vikings vs. Hammond Bishop Noll Warriors

For the second straight game, Illiana Christian will face off against Hammond Bishop Noll. The Vikings will welcome the Warriors at 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday. Illiana Christian is strutting in with some hitting muscle as they've averaged 7.4 runs per game this season.

Illiana Christian had to skate by with only a two-run margin when they last took the field, which might have inspired the 20-run drubbing they dealt Hammond Bishop Noll on Monday. The Vikings' pitcher stepped up to hand the Warriors a 20-0 shutout. The victory continues a trend for the Vikings in their matchups with the Warriors: they've now won eight in a row.

Cayden Petersen was a major factor while hitting and pitching. On the mound, she didn't allow a single earned run over five innings pitched. Petersen was also big at the plate, going a perfect 4-for-4 with five RBI, two runs, and two doubles. Those five RBI gave her a new career-high.

Lydia VanderWoude

Triples (Career)

05/12/25 @ Hammond Bishop Noll	2
05/09/25 @ Harrison	1
05/06/25 vs Whiting	1
04/30/25 @ Hanover Central	1
04/16/25 @ Boone Grove	1

In other batting news, Lydia VanderWoude was incredible, going 4-for-5 with four runs, two triples, and two stolen bases. Those two triples gave her a new career-high. Another player making a difference was Lexy Miedema, who went 1-for-3 with one home run, three RBI, and two runs.

Illiana Christian kept the outfield on their toes and finished the game with 19 hits. That strong performance was nothing new for the team: they've now got at least eight hits in five consecutive games.

Illiana Christian's win bumped their record up to 13-7. As for Hammond Bishop Noll, they are on a five-game losing streak that has dropped them down to 6-8.

Tuesday's contest will be a test for both teams' pitchers. Illiana Christian hasn't had any issues making contact this season, having earned a batting average of .395. However, it's not like Hammond Bishop Noll struggles in that department as they've averaged .347. With both teams so capable at the plate, fans should be ready for an impressive hitting performance. Check MaxPreps after the action for a full breakdown of the game and more softball content.