Chippewa Valley Times

The University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire softball team began their participation in the NFCA Leadoff Classic with mixed results, winning one game and losing another on Friday in Columbus, Georgia. The Blugolds secured a decisive victory against Piedmont, 11-2, before narrowly losing to Alma, 7-6.

In their opening match against Piedmont, the Blugolds displayed strong offensive skills with three home runs contributing to their win. Norah Kutnink hit two home runs and Molly Marquardt added another. The team accumulated 12 hits overall and scored in every inning except the fourth. Marquardt's three-run homer in the first inning set the tone for the game. Kutnink and Marquardt continued to drive in runs with further hits, while Paige Lathrop and Claire Beck also contributed to the scoreline.

Jacie Schultz pitched four innings without allowing any earned runs and recorded three strikeouts to earn the win.

In their second game against Alma, UW-Eau Claire found themselves trailing 5-0 but mounted a late comeback attempt that ultimately fell short. Marquardt's two-run homer reduced the deficit in the fifth inning. Additional efforts from Kenna Strunsee and Beck brought the score closer at 5-4. However, Alma extended their lead with two more runs in the sixth inning. Despite Marquardt's continued efforts with a two-RBI single in the seventh inning, it was not enough for a comeback.

Marquardt ended Game 2 going 3 for 3 with four RBIs.

The Blugolds will continue competing at the NFCA Leadoff Classic with upcoming games against Chicago and Denison scheduled for Saturday.

For more updates on UW-Eau Claire softball throughout the season, fans can visit Blugolds.com or follow Blugold Sports on social media platforms such as Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.