Softball ends season in district semifinals

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Davin Smith

Ella Strickland (12) bats against Eureka, a 4-3 win on Sept. 29.

After the delay of fall sports and nothing but practice for six straight weeks, the OHS softball season ended just as fast as it began. 

The long-awaited season ended on Oct. 15 when the girls lost 12-1 to Jackson in the district semifinal game. But despite the ending no one wanted, the OHS softball team kept an impressive 9-5 record after squeezing an entire season into two and a half weeks.

We feel the season went about as well as it could go given the circumstances,” said head coach Rich Sturm.

Abby Alonzo and Ella Strickland are all smiles after enjoying outstanding senior seasons. (Tiger Paw)

However, not going as far in the postseason as the team would have wanted, the senior starters all had incredible seasons. With shortstop Ella Strickland having a batting average of .426, pitcher Abby Alonzo hitting .447, and outfielder Maddie Kilburn at .452, the seniors were outstanding.

Ella broke the career home run record and Abby hit 3 home runs in a single game. I believe we hit 23 home runs in those 14 games as well,” said Sturm. “Our coaching staff could not be any more proud of this senior class.

In spite of COVID-19 pushing back the fall sports, and the season ending a little faster than expected, the OHS softball team had a very successful season.

We have never had a group that has had to overcome more challenges and adversity than this group of seniors. Their leadership, patience and hard work will never be forgotten,” said Sturm. “We are just thrilled that they were able to play the 14 games and have a senior season with positive memories that none of us will ever forget.”