Fredrick, MD– The Notre Dame of Maryland University softball team split a highly competitive non-conference doubleheader with Hood College on Tuesday, April 9. The Gators fell 2-1 in the opener before earning a 5-0 victory in the nightcap.  

GAME 1 

The Gators weathered an early offensive flurry by the Blazers, only allowing one run in the first six innings while stranding 10 Hood base runners. Starting pitcher Gena Donalds pitched out of several jams allowing 12 total hits during her time inside the circle.  

NDMU found their offensive rhythm in the sixth inning. Julianna Leatherwood led off with a single into center field. Eleanor Flores laid down a sacrifice bunt to mover Ju. Leatherwood into scoring position. Jessie Leatherwood then blasted a ball into right center field, allowing Ju. Leatherwood to score and tie the game at one. Hood College stopped NDMU from scoring another run, and eventually scored in the seventh inning to earn the walk-off victory.  

GAME 2 

NDMU looked to bounce back in game two of the doubleheader, taking an early lead by scoring in the top of the third inning. Anabelle Hafner led-off the inning with a single up the middle and then she stole second and third to move into scoring position. Ju. Leatherwood executed a squeeze play, reaching safely at first base while A. Hafner scored.  

The Gators added more runs in the top of the fourth inning. Donalds started the rally, driving a single up the middle. Bethany Steers reached base with a single of her own. Later in the inning, A. Hafner smacked a double to left field, driving in the second run of the game. Ju. Leatherwood kept the rally going, knocking a two-RBI single through the left side. Je. Leatherwood singled and both sisters advanced on a pass ball to put two more runners in scoring position. Charlene Torres smacked a single into the outfield, allowing another run to score, giving NDMU a 5-0 advantage.  

With the offense building an early lead, Je. Leatherwood controlled the game from the mound. She pitched 6.0 innings, holding the Blazers to only four hits while striking out eight. Malorie Gogel came on in relief pitching a 1-2-3 seventh inning to secure the 5-0 victory. 

WHO'S NEXT 
The Gators have a quick turnaround as they will host Cairn University on Wednesday, Apr. 10 in their home opener. The first pitch is scheduled for 3:00 PM.  

STAY CONNECTED 
Fans can keep up with NDMU Athletics all season long on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube using the handle @ndmgatorsports.