On Tuesday, March 4th, the Allegany College of Maryland (ACM) Trojans softball team kicked off their season with a doubleheader against Hagerstown. The day was a mix of challenges and triumphs as the Trojans split the games, showcasing their competitiveness.
Game 1: Hagerstown 10, ACM 2
The season opener saw Kayla Hill taking the mound for the Trojans. The right-handed pitcher (RHP) delivered a solid performance, pitching 5 innings and striking out 4 batters. However, Hagerstown got off to an early lead, scoring 2 runs in the first inning. Despite ACM's strong defensive effort in the second inning, holding Hagerstown scoreless, the Hawks continued to score with ease, ultimately securing a 10-2 victory in 5 innings.
On the offensive side, the Trojans saw contributions from freshman Natalie Melby and Kayla Hill, each recording two hits. In the last inning, Ryanne Martinez and Natalie Melby earned runs after being walked, but it wasn't enough to overcome Hagerstown's lead.
Game 2: ACM 15, Hagerstown 0
The second game of the doubleheader was a different story for the Trojans. Ryanne Martinez started on the mound, with Kayla Hill coming in to finish the game. Martinez earned the win, striking out 5 batters. The Trojans' bats were on fire, racking up 17 hits and scoring 15 runs.
Multiple players had standout performances, including Brylee Bateson, Nakiya Copes, Jaynie Simpkins, Natalie Melby, Morgan Nelling, Hailee Jenkins, and both pitchers, who all recorded multiple hits. The scorers for the game included Melby, Martinez, Simpkins, Hill, Nelling, and Copes.
Coach Twigg expressed his pride in the team's performance, stating, "I am super impressed with our fight and that we battled after the nerves of game 1. Everyone was a part of this team win, and it's always good to see that."
The Trojans will next face the Westmoreland Wolfpack at home on Saturday at 1 PM as part of another doubleheader. Fans are encouraged to come out and support the team, with a reminder that admission is complimentary.