Don Rodman knew when he took the mound he was going to pitch a complete game.

The senior pitcher got his first start of the season Wednesday in Game 2 against Chicago State and ran with the opportunity. He threw 5 strikeouts in a complete game, which the Huskies won 4-3.

Even though he was getting tired at the end, nothing was going to stop Rodman from wrapping up, he said.

“I was determined to finish the game,” he said, “especially with the way the defense was playing out there. It made things a lot easier out there. There was some wear and tear, but it felt good all the way through. I thought I was getting stronger out there as the game went on.”

Things were rough for Rodman at times, as he gave up 2 runs with bases loaded in the top of the fourth inning. He regained his composure and finished the game with two 1-2-3 innings, and had 2 strikeouts in the seventh.

“He was very impressive out there,” said second baseman Jason Ciarrachi. “He threw well out there. The main thing was that he threw strikes and the defense made the plays.”

Rodman said the Huskies’ lackluster performance in Game 1 of the twin-bill against Chicago State added fuel to his fire. The Cougars scored 13 unanswered points to beat NIU 13-7 in their first encounter.

Coach Dave Schrage said Rodman might have pitched his way into the starting rotation for Mid-American Conference play.

“He’s not ready to be a regular starter just yet, and will be worked into the role,” Schrage said.

Usually a middle reliever for the Huskies, Rodman started two games last year and began last season as NIU’s closer.

“The thing with Rodman is, the more he pitches and the longer he goes in games, the more effective he gets,” Schrage said. “We’ve played 15 games, and we are still looking at who is going to step up in the rotation. Don gave himself a big plus with his effort he gave.”

Rodman said he could get used to a starting spot, seeing that he’s played every role for the Huskies’ pitching staff.

“I was all over the place last year,” he said. “… I am pretty much willing to do anything. They told me that I was going to start today, but I have been ready for every position they put me in.”