The NAIA World Series has secured a spot for the top-ranked OLLU softball team, who have dominated opponents 7-0 to win the San Antonio bracket of the NAIA Opening Round Championship. Senior outfielder Kayla Dreese expressed her team’s main goal of winning a championship and their excitement at being in this position once again.
On Wednesday, at St. Mary’s University, the Saints sealed the opening round title with a 2-0 shutout against Hope International University. Senior pitcher Cassie Valdez broke the tie in the 5th inning with a 2-run home run that also brought in Alyssa Garcia. Head coach Bruce Lenington commended her clutch performance, emphasizing the significance of her game-winning hit.
Valdez shared her aggressive mindset leading up to the 2-run blast, emphasizing her readiness to hit anything thrown her way. Her teammates rallied behind her, celebrating the pivotal moment in the game. In the circle, Valdez showcased her talent by striking out nine batters in her third complete game of the tournament.
As they advance to the NAIA World Series starting on May 23 in Columbus, Georgia,
