DeKALB | Former NFL defensive back Ronnie Lott will visit NIU today to teach a class in Barsema Hall.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Lott to NIU, and excited about the opportunity for our student-athletes to interact with someone who has been successful both academically and at the highest level of athletic competition,” said athletics director Jim Phillips.

Lott also will speak with the football team and attend a student-athlete dinner in Phillips’ home.

Lott’s appearance was arranged by alumnus Dennis Barsema.

Tossing bags

NIU’s volleyball team hosted a bags tournament last year, raising $3,000. Its success led to planning another tournament for this Saturday.

Check-in is at 1 p.m. and the tournament will last from 2 to 4 p.m. It will cost $30 for a team of NIU students and $60 for non-students. The tournament will be held in the northwest Campus Recreation Center lot. There will be cash and prizes for the teams.

Students also can bring tailgating supplies and set up at the tournament location.

For more information, contact volleyball coach Ray Gooden at 753-9533 or e-mail at [email protected].

Pitching in

Former NIU baseball pitcher Joe Piekarz is scheduled to start for the Kane County Cougars in Game 2 of the Midwest League Championship Series.

Piekarz has an 8-7 record with a 3.26 ERA during the regular season in 35 appearances and 16 starts. He totaled 127 innings, the second highest on the Cougars.

NIU infielder Bobby Stevens played this summer in the Central Illinois Collegiate League, earning him recognition in Baseball America.

The publication ranked Stevens No. 3 in the league and he was named MVP while he led the Twin City Stars into the CICL Championship.

Stevens also led the league in runs scored, was second in hits and third in batting average for the regular season.

Jenn Novielli is a sports reporter for the Northern Star.