Softball teams from UNI, Iowa State and Drake will open the season in Cedar Falls on Friday as part of the Doc Halverson UNI-Dome Classic. The Panthers begin the season as the Missouri Valley favorite and open Friday afternoon against Nebraska-Omaha.

That’s UNI coach Ryan Jacobs. The UNI-Dome allows the Panthers to be one of the few northern teams to open at home.

The Panthers are an experienced and deep team.

Jacobs says all teams need a game right now.