Carolina University Bruins Softball hosted Paine College in a doubleheader on April 15, earning a split in their South Region rematch at Wilson Park.
The matchup was significant as it brought together two rivals who last met in the South Regional Semifinal, where Paine won after twelve innings. This time, both teams secured one win each, showing strong competition between the programs.
Paine College took the first game in extra innings with a 5-3 victory. Carolina led early but defensive errors allowed Paine to tie and eventually win with two runs in the eighth inning. Anni Bergmeier pitched for Carolina, allowing nine hits and five runs—only one of them earned—and struck out two batters.
In Game 2, Carolina rebounded by scoring nine runs to defeat Paine. After falling behind early, the Bruins had a big fourth inning and continued to build their lead through consistent offense. Madison Hamilton pitched a complete game for Carolina and also scored twice.
Interim Head Coach Danielle Brooks said after the games: “I’m proud of how our group responded after a tough extra-inning loss. We showed grit, made adjustments at the plate, and competed the way Carolina softball is capable of. Splitting against a strong regional opponent like Paine is a step forward for us.”
The Bruins participate in both conference and non-conference games during their season according to the official website. The team competes under Carolina University’s athletics program according to the official website and supports student-athletes balancing academic and athletic responsibilities according to the official website. They play within NCAA Division III as part of the Ohio Athletic Conference according to the official website, operating from Bexley, Ohio according to the official website.
Looking ahead, Carolina University will face Milligan University on Saturday April 18 in another doubleheader.
