The Hartford softball team split its opening doubleheader at the Space Coast Spring Games in Melbourne, Florida, on March 13, improving its season record to 3-1. The Hawks secured a narrow 10-9 victory over Nebraska Wesleyan University before falling to Greenville University by a score of 8-5.
These early results set the tone for Hartford’s spring campaign and highlight both the team’s resilience and areas for improvement as they continue their schedule.
In the first game against Nebraska Wesleyan, Hartford overcame an early deficit after defensive errors allowed the Prairie Wolves to take a 3-0 lead. Senior Taylor Fitch singled to drive in a run and later scored herself following a stolen base and errant throw. The Hawks continued to battle back, with sophomore Alyssa Edwards hitting a grand slam in the fourth inning. Fitch contributed further with a two-run double in the fifth, while sophomore Katrina Baran added two more runs with a single. Junior Gracie Hopkins pitched most of the game, allowing six runs (two earned) over seven innings and recording four strikeouts. “It was a tough battle but it just showed how much grit this team has when we work all together defensively and offensively,” said senior Taylor Fitch. “It was a great way to start our Spring Break.”
Against Greenville University, Hartford fell behind early as the Panthers scored three runs in the first inning and added another in the second. Edwards responded with her third home run of the season for Hartford’s first run. Despite late efforts that included doubles from junior Adelie Beebe and sacrifice flies from Edwards and freshman Gillian Ulrich, Hartford could not overcome Greenville’s lead.
Pitching duties were shared between senior Carly Mayhood, who allowed seven runs (five earned) over three innings, and sophomore Ella Zobel, who gave up one run across four innings while striking out four batters.
The Hawks are scheduled to play two more games tomorrow starting at 2:30 PM against Grinnell College as they continue their participation in the tournament.
