The Ferris State University softball team began its participation at the USSSA Space Coast Spring Games in Melbourne, Florida, with a split on March 9. The Bulldogs lost their opener to Indianapolis but secured a win against Gannon (Pa.) later in the day.
These games are part of an eight-game schedule for Ferris State during their week-long stay in Florida. The event allows the team to compete against both conference and non-conference opponents, as described by the official website.
In the first game, Ferris State took an early lead by scoring three runs in the first inning against nationally ranked Indianapolis. However, Indianapolis responded with eight runs in the fourth inning and ultimately won 12-5. Ferris State recorded nine hits, including two-hit performances from Alexis Kozlowski, Ava Gardner, Emma Gillard, and Jayden Marlatt. Gardner contributed a home run and two runs batted in, while Gillard also homered and doubled. Marlatt added a double and Kozlowski hit a triple. Pitchers Addison Gillard, Katie Shuboy, and Sally Leask combined for seven strikeouts but issued twelve walks.
In their second game of the day against Gannon (Pa.), Ferris State overcame an early deficit to win 5-2. Gardner led with three hits; Kozlowski and Emma Herremans each had two hits. Doubles came from Kozlowski, Gardner, and Emily Killion. Both Kozlowski and Herremans drove in two runs apiece. Cecelia Bell pitched all seven innings for Ferris State, striking out four batters while allowing six hits and only one walk.
The Bulldogs are scheduled to play Ursuline next at 4:45 p.m., followed by Rockhurst (Mo.) at 7 p.m., continuing their busy week of competition.
The women’s softball program at Ferris State competes in NCAA Division II as part of the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference according to the official website. The program is based in Big Rapids, Michigan according to the official website and supports student-athletes’ academic and athletic balance while contributing to the university’s athletic tradition according to the official website.
