MYRTLE BEACH, SOUTH CAROLINA— The Waynesburg University softball team started its 2020 campaign this past Wednesday in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, at the Fast Pitch Dream Spring Classic. The Yellow Jackets started off the season with two tough opponents in Otterbein, who was a 2019 NCAA Division lll qualifier and the College of Saint Elizabeth, who won 24 games last season.

The Jackets started off the year with a 12-6 loss to Otterbein.

Waynesburg was the first team to score against the Cardinals. Kyla Alderson, a junior transfer from Marietta, brought home freshman Brin Hunter with a single in the top of the first inning. Otterbein responded, however, with six runs in the bottom half.

Waynesburg battled back in the top of the second, In the top of the second. An Otterbein error allowed the Jackets’ second run to cross the plate. In the top of the third inning, a two-run single by Emily Schafer scored Alderson and freshman Lauren Lober, making it a 6-4 game.

In the top of the fourth, Waynesburg continued to chip away. Hunter’s her first collegiate RBI single scored classmate Mackenzie Carpenter. Hunter would later score on a wild pitch that would bring the Jackets to within a run, 7-6.

After that, however, Otterbein pulled away in the bottom of the frame, scoring five more runs to seal up the game and go on to win, 12-6.

On a positive note, Jackets’ coach Brett Shimek saw a lot of positive things in this first game of the season.

Junior pitcher Emma Kubalak allowed 12 runs, but just two were earned. She also walked one batter and struck out another.

Waynesburg started their second game of the year against the College of Saint Elizabeth, but the game was suspended in the top of the second inning due to inclement weather, with Waynesburg up 3-0.

Freshman Kaylee Stewart got the start in the circle, and retired the side to start the game.

Waynesburg will try for the second time this week to play games as inclement weather has stalled almost ever team in the tournament in Myrtle Beach, SC. The game is scheduled to be against Hilbert College today at noon.