The Valparaiso University softball team will play over 50 games this spring as head coach Jerry Stieger has released his 2003 schedule.

The Crusaders will open their season in Orlando, Fla. March 2-9 at the Rebel Games against opponents to be named later. Valpo will then travel to the Western Kentucky Tournament March 14-16 for a minimum of five games before beginning doubleheader action.

Valpo's home opener on its new campus field will take place on March 27 against Loyola (Ill.). The Crusaders will host ten home doubleheaders over the course of the season, including three Mid-Continent Conference series. Mid-Con play opens on April 4-5 at home against Southern Utah.

The Mid-Con Tournament will be held May 9-10 in Macomb, Ill., hosted by Western Illinois.