The Valley Christian softball team kicked off their regular season with an impressive display of talent and teamwork, sweeping their first two regional games against the Globe Tigers. With a commanding offense and dominant pitching performances, the Trojans showcased why they are the team to watch this season.
Game 1: Trojans Overpower Tigers in 17-0 Victory
In their opening matchup at Noftsger Field, the Trojans set the tone early with a relentless offensive attack, securing a decisive 17-0 win. Leading the charge was Makay Fraley, who drove in five runs on three hits, including a two-run single in the fourth.
Pitcher Leigha Kremlacek was nearly untouchable on the mound, striking out 11 batters over five innings while allowing just one hit and two walks. Her dominant presence gave the Trojans full control of the game.
The scoring started in the top of the first inning when Corinne Rodgers and Kremlacek each brought in a run. The Trojans poured it on in the second, tallying five more runs with Fraley's clutch double leading the way. By the fourth inning, they had racked up six more runs, thanks to big hits from Taya Clausen, Lo Colvin, and Fraley once again.
The Tigers' pitching staff struggled to contain the Trojans' offense, with their starter giving up 11 hits, 15 runs (14 earned), and 12 walks over three and two-thirds innings.
Fraley and Sloan each collected three hits for Valley Christian, with Clausen and Abrielle Jarles contributing multiple hits as well. The Trojans' aggressive baserunning was also on display, swiping 12 bases during the game. Defensively, they played error-free softball and turned a key double play.
Game 2: Trojans Keep Momentum Rolling in 13-0 Shutout
The Trojans followed up their dominant opening win with another stellar performance, defeating the Tigers 13-0 in their second matchup. Once again, Valley Christian's offense overwhelmed Globe, highlighted by a seven-run third inning.
Sophie Kercsmar ignited the rally with an RBI double, followed by Addi Ballantyne driving in a run after being hit by a pitch. Kenzie Maret delivered the biggest blow of the inning with a base-clearing triple, adding three more runs to the scoreboard. Sisi Kercsmar and Jarles ech contributed RBIs to cap off the explosive inning. On the mound, Fraley took over pitching duties and dominated, throwing three no-hit innings with seven strikeouts and just one walk. Taya Clausen came in for relief, giving up only one hit over two shutout innings while striking out three.
The Trojans' offense collected 15 hits, with Kercsmar leading the way, going a perfect 3-for-3 at the plate. Maret also impressed with a 2-for-2 performance, driving in three runs. Jarles, Fraley, and Bowman each added multiple hits to the team's total.
Defensively, Valley Christian remained flawless for the second straight game, with Kercsmar leading the defense with nine fielding chances.
A Strong Start to the Season
With a combined score of 30-0 over the two games, the Valley Christian Trojans proved they are a force to be reckoned with in regional play. Their powerful bats, sharp defense, and stellar pitching were on full display, setting a high standard for the season ahead.
As they look to build on this early success, the Trojans have made it clear that they are contenders for region dominance. With standout performances from Fraley, Kremlacek, and the Kercsmar sisters, the Trojans' season is off to an electric start.
