Chippewa Valley Times

The University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire softball team secured victories in two games at the NFCA Leadoff Classic on Saturday, defeating Chicago 9-8 and Denison 5-2. These wins improved the Blugolds' tournament record to 3-1.

In their first game, the Blugolds (4-2) triumphed over Chicago with a walk-off single by Brooklyn Swanepoel, concluding a four-run rally in the bottom of the seventh inning. Initially trailing 3-0 after the top of the first inning, UW-Eau Claire responded with five runs in their half of the frame. Claire Beck hit a three-run homer, while Megan Patterson added a two-RBI single.

Chicago tied the game in the fifth and took an 8-5 lead by scoring two more runs in the seventh. In response, Kenna Strunsee's two-run home run narrowed the gap to one run. With two outs remaining, Swanepoel delivered her decisive hit to secure victory for UW-Eau Claire.

Lauren Trottier pitched three innings of relief against Chicago, allowing three runs and striking out one batter to earn the win.

Against Denison, Jacie Schultz pitched a complete game for UW-Eau Claire, holding their opponents to two runs and striking out four. Mila Photopoulos contributed early with a two-RBI single that gave her team an initial lead. A tied score was broken when Strunsee's RBI double put them ahead for good during a three-run fifth inning.

Paige Lathrop went 5-for-8 at bat across both games. Strunsee and Beck each drove in three runs throughout Saturday's contests.

The Blugolds are scheduled to play LaGrange and Spalding on Sunday as they conclude their participation in this tournament.

Follow UW-Eau Claire’s progress through their website or via social media platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.