Hawks Drop Regional Opener To Transylvania

MONTGOMERY, Ala.- In the first round of the 2024 NCAA Softball Regional Tournament, the Huntingdon Hawks(33-7 overall) fell to the Transylvania Pioneers(35-8 overall) 2-0 in a defensive battle.

The first inning was entirely controlled by each squad's pitcher, with both defenses forcing three outs in as many batters to bring a quick close to the opening inning. The first base hit of the matchup came in the bottom frame of the second inning, with Maddie Grace Hubbard reaching first on a single to left field. Transylvania took their 2-0 lead to kick off the third inning with a two-run homer. The Hawks responded with an out to close the frame, but could not capitalize in the next frame, with two batters striking out swinging. Throughout the rest of the game, there would be 5 more base hits, with Huntingdon earning three and the Pioneers earning two. Brooke Cooper held her own on the mound, striking out two batters and keeping Transylvania off the scoreboard, but the Hawks could not find a rhythm at the plate, falling 2-0.

Allie Roberts started for Huntingdon, allowing two runs and two hits through two innings while striking out two Pioneers. Brooke Cooper pitched four innings for the Hawks, keeping them off the board while allowing two hits and earning two strikeouts.

Head Coach Casey Chrietzberg on the upcoming matchup vs  #1 seeded Berry

• "Every team we play throughout the rest of the season is going to be a very good program. It's no different who is in the opposing dugout, we still have a job to do and I feel if we can execute our job on all cylinders then we can compete with anyone. It's gonna come down to executing and taking advantage of all the opportunities we get and making the right plays to string together a winning effort."

The Hawks are set to battle the Vikings tomorrow at 1:30 PM in a "win or go home" scenario.