Grand Rapids Reporter

The Ferris State University softball team faced a challenging start to their season, ending the opening day with an 8-1 loss against Lewis University. The game took place on Monday in Honolulu, Hawaii, marking the second matchup of the day for Ferris State after a narrow 8-7 defeat to Hillsdale.

Ferris State fell behind early in the game, with Lewis taking a 3-0 lead in the first inning. Despite efforts to recover, the Bulldogs were unable to close the gap as Lewis maintained control throughout. By the fourth inning, Lewis extended their lead by adding four more runs and secured their victory with an additional run in the fifth inning. In total, Lewis managed 11 hits compared to Ferris State's seven.

For Ferris State, shortstop Jayden Marlatt contributed two hits, including a double. Designated player Cecelia Bell also hit a double while second baseman Jadyn Joseph tripled and scored the team's only run.

Sophomore pitcher Rylie Haist started for Ferris State, pitching three and two-thirds innings. She allowed seven runs on ten hits and issued one walk. Ella Covill-Marter relieved Haist and pitched two and one-third innings without giving up any earned runs; she allowed just one hit while recording a walk and a strikeout.

Looking ahead, Ferris State is set to play Nebraska-Kearney on Tuesday at 6 p.m. ET followed by a game against Humboldt State at 8 p.m. ET in Hawaii.