Softball team sweeps Lake Michigan

By Jayden Hewitt
Sports Editor

The LCC softball team grabbed its 17th and 18th conference wins on Saturday, April 22 at Lake Michigan College. The Lady Stars swept the doubleheader by scores of 12-3 and 9-5.

The two wins came after a doubleheader split at home vs. Kalamazoo Valley Community College. The Stars won 8-0 in the first game and lost 11-5 in the second. LCC’s record is now 24-17 on the year and 18-4 in the conference.

LCC Head Coach Marc Kibby spoke about the recent weather and cancellations affecting the team’s rhythm. The Lady Stars were supposed to play on Tuesday, April 25 at Oakland CC, but had the games canceled.

“It's hard when you are playing well,” Kibby said. “You want to keep playing and not lose your rhythm and momentum. It makes it hard. But we focus on the little things, working on fine tuning our swings, talking through defensive communication, and looking at our next opponent on the schedule.”

Pitcher/outfielder Morgen Ahlfeld tallied her 13th win on the mound in the first game against Lake Michigan, going seven innings, allowing three runs and striking out nine. Pitcher/outfielder Madison Travis won her sixth game on the mound in the nightcap, going seven innings and allowing five runs.

Catcher/infielder Jenna Morse had a big day at the plate for LCC, racking up six hits and five RBIs and one steal in two games. Utility player Audrey Smith collected two hits and five RBIs in the doubleheader and slugged the Lady Stars’ only home run in either game. Outfielder Raygan Williams also put together four hits and three RBIs on the afternoon.

Kibby spoke about his team coming together amidst the success, especially in MCCAA Western Conference play.

“The sophomore class has been great at leadership, talking and showing the ropes on (how) to do things, on and off of the field,” Kibby said. “The freshmen have grown up, accepting more leadership roles, on and off of the field. This carries over to the classroom, helping each other with studying.”

The Lady Stars next games will be this Friday, April 28 in an MCCAA Western Conference doubleheader at home vs. Jackson College. The games will start at 3 p.m. at Ranney Park on Lansing’s east side.