TAMPA, Fla., April 26, 2024 –Payton Dixon pitched a complete-game shutout in the University of South Florida softball team's (31-18, 10-11 AAC) 1-0 win over the Florida Atlantic Owls (36-13, 16-5 AAC) to open the series on Friday afternoon.
 
Before the game, head coach Ken Eriksen and the softball staff celebrated the 2024 senior class. The Bulls honored Sam Mallinder, Bailey Drapola, Alyssa Rano, Rian Eigenmann, Marissa Trivelpiece, Lexie Kopko, Jordyn Kadlub, as well as managers Madi LaCastro and Gabriella Nori.  
 
South Florida took the 1-0 lead in the second inning on three straight hits. Alanah Rivera (St. Petersburg) singled, followed by a double from Marissa Trivelpiece (Sugarloaf, Pa.). An RBI single from Kathy Garcia-Soto (Tampa) put the Bulls on the board.
 
Dixon (Smyrna, Del.) earned her 24^th start of the season and pitched her 11^th complete game. Dixon held the Owls to two hits, one in the second and one in the seventh. She earned her 17^th win on the season.
 
Notables

• Dixon struck out two batters.
• Trivelpiece led with two hits.
• Eigenmann earned the Bulls' only walk.
• South Florida out-hit Florida Atlantic 5-2.

 
Up Next
South Florida and Florida Atlantic will continue the series tomorrow afternoon. The first pitch is set for 5 p.m.
 
About USF Softball
Be sure to follow USF softball on social media (Twitter / Facebook / Instagram) and visit GoUSFBulls.com for the most up-to-date information. The USF softball program has been one of the most successful on campus, making 17 NCAA tournament appearances, including a trip to the Women's College World Series in 2012.