N.C. State is preparing to face North Carolina this weekend for a three-game series at home at Walnut Creek.
While the event is important for players and fans, coach Lisa Navas said the fact that the team will be facing its down-the-street rival will not affect its play.
“All ACC teams are a rivalry,” Navas said. “We’ve played well against them in the past. It’s a matter of playing well at the right time.”
Senior pitcher Abbie Sims said playing UNC brings a little something extra to the game.
“It adds motivation,” Sims said. “You get excited to play. Everyone brings their ‘A game’.”
When the Wolfpack met the Tar Heels in Chapel Hill last season, the team came away with two wins — in addition to the wins it took during the final rounds of the ACC tournament, leading to a championship victory.
Currently, the Pack and the Tar Heels stand 10-5 and 10-4, respectively, in the ACC.
From the end of February to the end of March, UNC maintained a steady line of W’s, many over key ACC teams.
“They’ve had a big winning streak, and they’re ranked higher than us,” Navas said. “But it’s always fun to play UNC.”
This week, State is coming off a shutout win against Campbell on Wednesday — tying a program record with 11 consecutive wins.
Sims pitched a perfect game in the win. Less than a week ago, she had a no-hitter against Virginia on Saturday.
“I’m focusing on making pitches move,” Sims said. “Carolina’s going to put the ball in play no matter what. Defense is always important, but we’re doing good right now.”
Navas said pitching will be key against UNC.
“If they do what they did [against Campbell], it will be a perfect game for us,” Navas said.
Though the Pack’s defense proved strong Wednesday, Navas said she’d like to see offensive play pick up.
“I’m looking for more bats to show up,” Navas said. “We didn’t get it done, didn’t hit the ball well. We’re just a little flat and tired from all the games. So I’m looking for us to show up hitting and take care of what we can.”
Offensively, Sims said she wants to make UNC work defensively.
“I’m focusing on hitting the ball hard and putting the ball in play — make them make mistakes and keep hitting it at them,” Sims said.
But when it comes down to it, Navas said if her team plays its game, State can come away with the victory.
“It’s just a matter of us showing up and playing,” Navas said. “If we do what we need to, we’ll be successful.”