The Wayland varsity softball team has proved that indeed it is back.
The Lady Wildcats pummeled Grand Rapids Ottawa Hills 19-0 and 23-0 Monday afternoon and evening to complete their O-K Gold Conference season undefeated in 14 challenges. The title comes two years after giving it up in a rare losing season.
Coach Cheri Ritz’s group now owns a 25-3 record overall in preparation for the District 2 post-season district tournament, which will take place at the Wildcat diamond at 10 a.m., noon and 2 p.m. Saturday, June 5.
In Monday’s league clincher, Junior Emma Ludema tossed her fourth no-hitter of the spring and third perfect game. Senior Kayla Reed threw a one-hit shutout.
Leading the Wildcat attack: in the opener was Grace Kincaid (3-for-4), all singles. Kayla Reed, Kami Morse and Kennedy Cole collected two hits each. Emma Tornes, Kaelyn Sikkema, Emma Ludema and Kylie Mutschlet each added a hit. Kylie Mutschler hit a triple
Ritz said it is the 26th conference softball championship in school history.
Top offensive performers were Grace Kincaid going 2-for-3, with a double; Kami Morse, Kayla Reed, Rya VanderKooi and Jada Mohon had hits in the nightcap.
The Wildcats will play a non-league doubleheader at Zeeland West Wednesday afternoon and then finish the regular season at home Thursday, June 3, entertaining Muskegon Oakridge.
