Carolina University Bruins Softball faced Spartanburg Methodist in a doubleheader at Wilson Park on February 19. The team was seeking to rebound after its season opener against Lees-McRae.
In the first game, both teams focused on defense and pitching. Spartanburg Methodist won 2-0. Carolina University’s starting pitcher, Madison Hamilton, pitched a complete game and allowed two unearned runs over seven innings with five hits given up. She also managed to limit further damage despite hitting multiple batters.
The Bruins’ offense collected four hits in the opener. Anni Bergmeier led with two hits, including a double, while Nathaly Ochoa added one hit and stole two bases. The team had scoring opportunities late in the game but could not convert as Spartanburg Methodist pitcher Bailey Kiser finished with nine strikeouts for the shutout.
The second game saw more offense from both sides. Carolina University scored three runs in the first inning, highlighted by Emma-Lea Cabral’s two-run home run and an RBI single from Emily Wilson. However, Spartanburg Methodist responded strongly and secured an 18-3 win in five innings.
Carolina finished the second game with seven hits; Jocelyn DeMoss had two hits and Cabral’s home run drove in two of the team’s three runs.
Head Coach Jay Johnson commented on the team’s progress: “We saw two very different games today, but both provided valuable lessons for our group. Our pitching competed well in game one, and we showed we can generate offense early in game two. We’re continuing to grow, and the quick turnaround is another opportunity for us to respond and improve.”
The Bruins are scheduled to play another doubleheader against Columbia International on February 21, depending on weather conditions.
The Carolina University Bruins Softball Team competes as part of NCAA Division III within the Ohio Athletic Conference. The team is based in Bexley, Ohio, where it participates in conference and non-conference games throughout its season while supporting student-athletes’ academic pursuits alongside athletics according to their official website.
