VALLEY CITY, N.D. – The Valley City State University softball team swept Dakota State University with two impressive victories on March 29. In the first game, the Vikings dominated, winning 8-0 thanks to a stellar performance from pitcher Maddy Hazelton, who allowed just one hit and struck out seven batters.
The Vikings quickly established control, shutting out the Trojans in both the first and second innings. The scoring began in the second when Kylee Banerd walked and three consecutive singles loaded the bases. An error allowed the first run to score, followed by an RBI groundout from Katelyn MacNeill, giving the Vikings a 2-0 lead. They extended their advantage to 3-0 in the third.
The fourth inning was a turning point. After loading the bases again, Bogenreif’s sacrifice fly brought in another run. Kennadi Stone then hit a two-run double, making it 6-0. Finally, MacNeill secured the win with a two-run double in the fifth inning.
In the second game, the Vikings showcased their power, winning 14-6. After a strong start, Banerd hit a home run to give VCSU an early 2-0 lead. They built on that by scoring six runs in the third inning, including Banerd’s second home run.
However, Dakota State fought back in the fifth, scoring six runs of their own, cutting the lead to 8-6. But the Vikings responded fiercely, with Bogenreif hitting a three-run homer, followed by another home run from Banerd.
Kylee Banerd had a standout day, going 4-for-4, with three home runs and seven RBIs. This performance underscores the Vikings’ growing strength as they now hold a 16-13 overall record and are 6-2 in Frontier Conference matches.
This season’s home run surge is noteworthy. Nationally, the NCAA reported a 49% increase in home runs across college softball since 2016, reflecting a trend of offensive growth in the sport. As teams utilize more advanced training methods, including data analytics and biomechanics, we can expect to see even more exciting performances like those from Banerd and her teammates.
Next up, the Vikings will take on Bismarck State College on April 2 at 2 PM, aiming to maintain their momentum and further solidify their standing in the Frontier Conference.
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