Andrew Watson ~ Guest Writer
The University of Lynchburg’s Softball team began their season on the road with a win against William Peace University and continued that success in their home opener when they played host to the Mary Baldwin University Fighting Squirrels.
The Hornets improved to 4-0 on the season following the sweep of Mary Baldwin. Lynchburg took game one of the doubleheader by a score of 9-1 and won the second game with a final score of 14-6.
Game one was highlighted by a pair of home runs courtesy of first-year utility player, Sarah Watts. Watts went four for five on the day and added five runs batted in for the Hornets.
Kailey Dorcsis was the starting pitcher for game one and picked up her second win of the season.
Game two had a different feel however, as both teams fought back and forth until the Hornets pulled away from the visitors to win their fourth straight game.
Lexi Powell hit her first collegiate home run to highlight game two, and Emily Charlton acquired her second win of the young season.
The Hornets were picked to finish third in the ODAC Preseason poll. Head Coach Dawn Simmons said,“Our conference is one of the strongest in the country for softball, everyday you better show up to play.” Simmons showed the determined mindset of the team as they are shifting their focus to prove the voters for the preseason poll right.
On Friday, Feb. 24 the Hornets also had a chance to unveil phase one of the Aubrey R. Moon Jr. Field renovations. With a new backstop, netting and a raised viewing area, the Hornets used this to build a sense of pride in their new facilities.
“Lots of people have come together to help us do these things,” stated Simmons. With the new scoreboard set to be installed before the next home series, phase one of the renovation will be completed.
The Hornets will now take their experienced mentality on the road as they embark on a ten-game road trip before hosting once again on March 22nd.
For more information about the team and Lynchburg’s athletic department, visit the University of Lynchburg’s athletics website.