Force's Miller,Burkhart to Visit White House

November 11, 2008 - National Pro Fastpitch (NPF)
Philadelphia Force News Release


Members of the Arizona State women's softball 2008 national championship, which includes pitcher Katie Burkhart and catcher Kristen Miller of the Philadelphia Force, will experience an amazing opportunity when they travel to the White House in Washington, D.C. to meet with President George W. Bush for NCAA Champions Day tomorrow.

"We are thrilled for both Katie and Kristen,. We look forward to seeing them back here in 2009 as we launch our Campaign to win the 2009 NPF Championship," said Tom Kleinman GM/Owner of the Philadelphia Force.

Burkhart threw a four-hitter as the Sun Devils claimed its first NCAA Women's College World Series title with an 11-0 rout against Texas A&M. The PAC-10 Pitcher of the Year dominated on the mound, having the third best ERA in the nation (0.75) and the second most strikeouts per seven innings (11.4). The Most Outstanding Player at the Women's College World Series, Burkhart picked up 41 wins on the season and struck out 513 batters. With her 41 wins, Burkhart broke her own single-season record. In her career, the San Luis Obispo, CA native struck out a total of 1,670 batters, an ASU record.

As the number one overall draft pick by the Philadelphia Force in the 2008 NPF draft, Burkhart enjoyed a truly dominant rookie season in the circle, leading the league with 13 wins (13-5) and a 1.87 ERA, while compiling a team-high 149 strikeouts (2nd in NPF), 15 complete games, and 131.2 innings pitched. Burkhart also owns the 2008 NPF Pitcher of the year award.

Miller, a switch-hitter, was also a key component to the success of the Arizona State softball program. A catcher for the Sun Devils, Miller hit .302 with 49 hits and 56 RBI. She was second on the team in home runs (16) and boasted a .636 slugging percentage. With her 56 RBI she was ranked third in the PAC 10. Her 16 homeruns also put her in fourth place in the conference.

In her first professional season, the Diamond Bar, California native went 14-for-75 at the plate with a home run and four RBI.

Stay Tuned for Blogs from Katie Burkhart during her trip to Washington, DC to meet the President and Japan for Japan's Professional League.

Time is running out for your chance to be a BAT GIRL....Sign up for the Force's November 28th Clinic. You have until Thursday November 13th.

Also ask Erin at estatmore@philadelphiaforce.com for the Force's special clinic with Katie Burkhart on December 20th.



National Pro Fastpitch Stories from November 11, 2008


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