Holland Reporter

The Grand Valley State softball team achieved a successful start at The Spring Games in Clermont, Florida, on March 1. The Lakers secured victories against Franklin Pierce and Western Oregon, improving their season record to 4-6.

In the first game against Franklin Pierce, Elizabeth Wesoloski's home run in the fourth inning clinched a narrow 1-0 win. Nevaeh Ingram delivered a complete game shutout, allowing five hits and striking out eight batters. Eliana Eiland contributed with two hits.

The second game saw the Lakers dominate Western Oregon with an 11-1 victory over six innings. GVSU took an early lead and maintained it throughout the match. Faith Edwards initiated scoring with a single and later stole second base. Wesoloski then drove her in for the game's first run.

The team extended their lead to 3-0 by the third inning through contributions from Eiland and Kylie Sinal. A four-run surge in the fifth inning put them ahead by seven runs, thanks to efforts from Wesoloski, MaryJane Goodman, Allyson Theunick, and Madelynn Pope.

Four additional runs in the sixth solidified their advantage before Western Oregon scored once but couldn't close the gap further due to GVSU's strong defense. Pitcher Kylie Swierkos earned her first win of the season after five innings without conceding any runs from two hits.

Wesoloski stood out offensively with three hits and three RBIs while Edwards recorded two stolen bases along with three hits. Goodman also added three hits and two RBIs to her name.

Looking ahead, Grand Valley State will continue their participation at The Spring Games on March 2 against Wilmington (Del.) at 9:00 AM followed by Concordia – St. Paul at 11:30 AM at Legends Way Complex.