By Alexandria Webb
Grand Rapids Community College women’s softball team sweeps Grace Christian University, winning 5-2 in the first game and then 5-0 in the second game. Improving their season record to an impressive 20-7.
The Raiders entered the game with noticeable energy from the beginning of the game until the end. From cheers to chants and celebrations, the team’s morale stayed high throughout the entire game.
Freshman Pitcher Tia Schone explained what this does for the team.
“Our cheering is a big part of how we play. We try and have a lot of energy, and that just helps us all stay positive through down moments,” Schone said. “It just helps us all play so much better, play so much looser, and play for each other.”
Freshman Centerfielder Caitlyn Horvath said supporting one another brings a sense of connection throughout the team.
“(It) keeps everyone involved,” Horvath said. “We try to find the fun in all of the time we can, because we don’t want to get down during the game.”
Schone shared one of her favorite chants to do;
“She be hacking, she be hacking, she be hacking, she be hacking, she be hacking,” Schone cheered, while clapping in rhythm. “Hacking” refers to when a batter is constantly hitting the ball hard.
When asked if she had a specific celebration, Schone shared, “I just kind of yell, that’s kind of my thing.”
Schone appreciates the team’s energy during the games, even with the windy and somewhat cloudy weather.
“I definitely like our energy, just the way that we all celebrate for each other, is kind of the best part,” Schone said. “I think we played really, really well. We kept our energy high. Even though it was cold and dreary, it was just a great day.”
Head Coach Chuck White acknowledged the camaraderie amongst the team.
“You know it makes them happy, so I’m happy,” White said.
Although excitement bubbled around the game, the team struggled with hitting.
“It was a good win, but…we could have won a little bit more, we had a couple of struggles,” Horvath said.
In the first game, there was a report of only five hits, yet each hit did match a run in. In the second game, there was a total of 13 hits and only 5 runs in.
“…We need to hit more,” White said.
White acknowledged the amazing defense displayed by the team. In the first two innings the Raiders shut down GCU with three outs in a row. In an outstanding double play done by Sophomore Second Baseman Kalani Stowe, Freshman Shortstop Kenady O’Leary, and Sophomore First Baseman Lillian Klop.
“…We played a great defense,” White said. “We pitched well, and we’ve been doing that consistently all year.”
Throughout the game, the Raiders realized what they struggled with, but also focused on where they excelled.
“But as long as we win, we’re usually pretty happy as a team, just going to practice next time and focus on the things we need to work on,” Horvath said.
The Raiders will prepare to play Muskegon Community College at Belknap Park in a doubleheader on Friday, April 10, starting at 2 p.m. Due to weather conditions, there may be changes in the schedule. Check the GRCC Athletics website for further updates.
