Ravens Softball Play Ball

Ravens Softball Play Ball

The Hillcrest Academy softball team took to the field last week providing one last opportunity for this year’s student-athletes to compete on a state level.  With the Iowa Girl’s Athletic Union (and the Iowa Boy’s Athletic Association) giving the ok to start the season for High School softball and baseball programs, albeit a later start than normal, it was met with great enthusiasm alongside extreme anxiety to do this as safely as possible for everyone involved, including umpires, fans, coaches, and players. 

On Monday, June 15th, the Ravens traveled to Highland to play their cross-town and conference rival to open up the season.  After keeping the game close through the first three innings behind Sophomore pitcher Leah Bontrager, the Highland offense finally broke through and didn’t look back as they topped the Ravens 12-0 in 4 innings.  Bontrager ended the game striking out 3. 

On Wednesday, June 17th, the Ravens were on the road again this time traveling to Cardinal, near Eldon, to play a Southeast Super Conference south division opponent.  The offense continued to struggle on the road as they faced another strong pitcher in Senior Virrups who shut down the Ravens allowing one hit to junior Sarah Miller.  Cardinal got 7 runs in the 3rd inning to the break the game open for them and paving the way for the win of 10-0 in 5 innings.  Hillcrest pitcher Leah Bontrager struck out 4 Cardinal hitters. 

On Thursday, June 18th, Hillcrest Academy hosted its first softball opponent of the season in another cross-town and conference rival, Lone Tree.  But the Lions showed their strength behind their pitcher, Buckman, who struck out 14, in 11-0 win.  Leah Bontrager had a season high striking out 6 Lone Tree hitters for Hillcrest.  There was some continued bright spots offensively as Senior Mia Graber snatched up a hit as well as Sophomore Esther Hughes with 2 singles and a stolen base to lead the Ravens. 

The week of June 22nd sees the Ravens in action 4 days this week, beginning on Monday evening as Hillcrest travels to and can competes against 2nd ranked in Class 2A and defending conference champion Louisa-Muscatine.  Then, on Tuesday, you won’t want to miss seeing Ravens in action at home for Senior Night, as they face Mediapolis.  A special presentation honoring senior Mia Graber and Sarena Gerber will begin before the first pitch slated at 7pm that night.  Come and celebrate with us!  Then, the Ravens will be back on the road Thursday and Friday nights traveling to Pekin and Holy Trinity, respectively.

Thanks for your continued support of Hillcrest Academy Softball! 

Evelyn Gerber

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