VALLEY CITY, N.D. – This weekend, Valley City State University (VCSU) welcomes Dakota State University for a crucial Frontier Conference softball matchup. The Vikings will battle it out in a doubleheader on Saturday, March 28, starting at 2:00 p.m., followed by another doubleheader on Sunday, March 29, at noon. These games will mark VCSU’s first home action of the spring season.
Currently, the Vikings hold a record of 12-13 overall and are 2-2 in conference play. They’ll be looking to turn things around after a recent loss. Meanwhile, Dakota State comes into the series with a record of 7-15 overall and 1-3 in the conference.
Historically, VCSU has the upper hand in this matchup, boasting an impressive 57-11 all-time record against Dakota State, including 11 straight wins. The Vikings have averaged a remarkable 8.25 runs per game during their series against the Statesmen, with their last encounter resulting in a 5-2 victory on May 2, 2025.
On the offensive side, Kennadi Stone shines with a batting average of .449, contributing 20 RBIs and three home runs. Support comes from teammates Bailey Leroux, who holds a .385 average, and Pascale Kihn at .376.
In the circle, Maddy Hazelton has thrown 72.1 innings, striking out 67 batters and completing six games. Cooper Klaahsen has also been effective, pitching 42.2 innings with 41 strikeouts. Together, they form a powerful pitching duo for the Vikings.
As fans gear up for the games, it’s important to note that there will be no water or concessions available on-site, so spectators should plan accordingly.
For more insights, statistics from the NCAA indicate that softball attendance has surged by 25% in the last five years, showcasing the growing popularity of the sport. Keep an eye on how this weekend’s games reflect that trend as VCSU aims to maintain its stronghold against Dakota State.
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