After a nine-game stretch (with one game canceled) at THE Spring Games in Winter Haven, Florida, the UW-River Falls softball team returns to the Midwest ready to turn the page and head into a busy week.
The Falcons battled through a competitive slate down south, totaling 47 runs on 54 hits over the week while facing a number of strong, nationally competitive opponents. The trip provided the time to allow UWRF to settle into roles both at the plate and in the circle as the season begins to take shape.
River Falls will now shift its focus with a road doubleheader against Bethel University in Arden Hills. First pitch is set for 3 p.m., followed by game two at 5 p.m. The Falcons will then return home for their home opener on Saturday, March 28, hosting Macalester College for a doubleheader at 1 and 3 p.m.
UW-RIVER FALLS (6-1, 0-0 WIAC) AT BETHEL (3-13, 0-0 MIAC)
Date: Wednesday, March 25
Time: 3 p.m. // 5 p.m.
Site: Arden Hills, Minn. // Ona Orth Athletic Complex
Coverage: Watch // Live Stats
UW-RIVER FALLS (6-1, 0-0 WIAC) VS MACALESTER (8-8, 0-0 MIAC)
Date: Friday, March 28
Time: 1 p.m. // 2 p.m.
Site: River Falls, Wis. // Faye Perkins Softball Stadium
Coverage: Watch // Live Stats // Tickets
FALCON NOTES
- Caitlyn Kressel has paced the Falcons offensively to start the season, leading the team with a .412 batting average while totaling 21 hits and 14 RBIs.
- Addison Eaton has also played a major role, hitting .310 with a team-high 17 runs scored and 13 RBIs, while showcasing her speed on the diamond with a 10-for-10 mark in stolen bases.
- Grace Gardner has added extra-base production with five doubles and a .314 average, and Lacie Lilyquist has driven in 11 runs to help round out the lineup.
- In the circle, Lucy Knutson has led the way with a 3.05 ERA, while Hailey Kincaid has logged a team-high 29.2 innings and picked up two wins.
- The Falcons have continued to rotate arms throughout the early part of the season with Brooklyn VanGruensven, Randi Metzler and Alexa Dusterhoft all finding time in the circle.
- Defensively, River Falls has been solid overall, posting a .951 fielding percentage. Kressel and Leah Oistad have been particularly reliable, each maintaining perfect fielding percentages.
- With their spring trip complete, the Falcons return to the north eager to carry last week's slate into matchups against Bethel and Macalester as they open their home slate this weekend.
