They Got it Done! Eagles Clinch NAIA Opening Round Championship!

Marion, Ind. -  Reinhardt Softball woke up the NAIA Softball world this week by cruising through the NAIA Opening Round Marion Bracket as a #5 seed, winning four straight games.  The Eagles knocked off #4 Coastal Georgia and #1 Madonna on day one.  On day two, the Eagles faced an undefeated #3 Rio Grande and won 7-1, advancing to the bracket championship game.  The other teams left battled it out on day three while the Eagles sat back and watched.  Rio Grande worked their way to play Reinhardt in the bracket finals on Thursday morning, where the Eagles won once again, 4-2, and took the Marion Bracket crown!

From the starting pitch, Anslie Pettit set a competitive tone against the Red Storm. She was the top pitcher in the bracket, and she continued game after game, keeping the runs low so the Eagles' offense could do their jobs. She pitched a complete game, striking out nine batters and scattering seven hits.

The highlight plays began early, setting the Eagles ahead. Eryn Lee's discipline at the plate earned her two walks during the game, contributing significantly to the team's pressure on the opposition. It was Taylor Wade who made a remarkable impact with a double to left field that brought a run home. Her performance included a stolen base and a critical RBI that added to the Eagles' momentum.

The offensive showcase continued with Shallyn Olszowy and Maggie English also stamping their authority on the game. Both players secured crucial RBIs, with English delivering a standout triple to center field that further widened the Eagles' lead. Such strategic hits were pivotal in framing the pace and outcome of the championship game.

So what's next for the Eagles?  Reinhardt will join Southern Oregon, Grand View (Iowa), Central Methodist (Mo.), Midland (Neb.), Georgia Gwinnett, Oklahoma City, Marian (Ind.), Cumberlands (Ky.), and Eastern Oregon in Columbus, Georgia. The final ten teams in the NAIA competing for the 2025 World Series title!  There will be more information to come as the Eagles find out where they will be seeded and who their opponent will be.  The World Series is a double-elimination tournament.

All NAIA World Series information can be found at the link below, including live-streaming, tickets, brackets, and more!

https://www.naia.org/sports/sball/index