Having a father who was part of two major championship teams left a lot to live up to for NIU softball’s Ellen Stoddard.

However, the fifth-year senior said she is not feeling the pressure while living up her last days of college ball.

Stoddard was leading her team with 19 runs scored and 35 hits heading into Tuesday’s doubleheader against Valparaiso.

No. 19 is also second on the team with a .313 batting average and five doubles.

After the Huskies won their second game Tuesday 4-1, Stoddard spent time with the Northern Star discussing her dad’s success, “24” and knickers.

Northern Star: You stole four bases last year. This season you’re 7 for 7. What gives?

Ellen Stoddard: I didn’t even know that. I don’t really keep track of that stuff.

NS: Fair enough.

NS: Your dad played with the 1983 Baltimore Orioles World Series Championship team. Was he a big influence for you?

ES: He had an influence, but my mom also played softball. I guess you could say it’s in the genes.

NS: He also played for the 1974 North Carolina State basketball championship team. Has that added any pressure for you?

ES: Not really. Any pressure I get comes from myself. My whole family is a good support system.

NS: It’s your third season since transferring from Harper College. Any regrets?

ES: Definitely not. I love it here.

NS: NIU is 4-4 in the MAC. How can you turn it around?

ES: We need to have good pitching and stick to what we do best. We have what we need to get the job done.

NS: Speaking of turning it around … Cubs, Sox or neither?

ES: Totally Cubs.

NS: Hockey or curling?

ES: Hockey, I guess. Is curling that Olympic thing? I’ve watched that.

NS: Favorite TV series?

ES: “24.”

NS: “American Idol?”

ES: Used to watch. Not anymore.

NS: Capris … in or out?

ES: Out.

NS: Could you also call capris knickers?

ES: (Laughs) Yeah, in a funny way.

NS: So, Payne Stewart used to wear capris.

NS: Harper College or NIU?

ES: NIU

NS: Good answer.