The Wayland varsity softball team started its season in familiar fashion with a doubleheader sweep over Grand Rapids Christian Wednesday afternoon.

The Lady Wildcats, defending champions of the O-K Gold Conference for the last 11 consecutive years, posted a couple of shutouts, 15-0 and 22-0 at Christian’s field.

Abby Merice pitched three innings in the opener, allowing one hit while striking out seven batters.

Leading the Wildcats offensively were catcher Leigha Morse, 3-for-3 with a home run, double, and six runs batted in; Merice, 3-for-3 with an RBI and a stolen base; Skylar Stora 1-for-1 with a triple and an RBI.

The Wildcats also went only three innings in subduing the Eagles in the nightcap. Lauren McCulligh threw an abbreviated no-hitter, striking out four and walking one.

Leading Wayland offensively were Morse, 3-for-3 with a home run, double, and five RBIs; Sydney Urben, 2-for-2 with two RBIs; Chloe Coughlin, 2-for-3 with two RBIs, and Chanlyn Commons, 2-3 with a double and an RBI.

The Lady Wildcats will be in action again Saturday, April 13, at the Muskegon Invitational at Softball World.

PHOTO: Southpaw Abby Merice had three hits and fired a one-hitter in the season opening victory. (Photo courtesy of Kenny Ritz)