MIAA softball play to open next week

For the Emporia State softball team, spring break wasn’t the typical period of relaxation most students enjoy. With tournaments on both weekends, and a full week of practice in between, the ESU stayed busy and spent a lot of time on the softball diamond.

The Hornets went 2-1 in their home tournament during the first weekend of the break, defeating North Dakota twice and falling once to Winona on the second day. On the second weekend, the Hornets traveled to the MWSU Crossover in St. Joseph, Mo. The Hornets went 4-1 on the weekend, only losing a tight 0-1 game to #15 Minnesota State-Mankato. For the tournament, including the loss, the Hornets outscored their opponents 44-14.

On Wednesday, the Hornets played a double-header against Newman University Jets (2-12) at Trusler Sports Complex. In the first game, ESU defeated Newman 5-0. Senior Sam Sheeley pitched a complete game, recording 14 strikeouts on the night, while only giving up two hits.

In the second game of the evening, the Hornets again defeated the Jets, 8-0, to round out the Wednesday night sweep. Senior Jessie Wiard went two for four and scored four runs as junior pitcher Megan Dennis pitched six innings while giving up five hits and no runs.

For the Hornets, MIAA play will begin next Wednesday when the Hornets host the Missouri Western Griffons. Senior Sam Sheeley discussed the Hornet’s outlook on conference play.

“We’re definitely looking forward to it,” Sheeley said. “It’s really a new season for us. We need to come found and show them what we’ve got. It’s going to be pretty exciting.”