Head Coach Clint Poulsen has clinched his inaugural Collegiate Head Coaching victory.
Saturday's non-conference clash between the Stephens College Softball team and the Graceland University Yellowjackets was a showcase of resilience and triumph. After a rough first game, the Stars rallied to secure a split 1-1 series, with the spotlight shining brightly on Head Coach Clint Poulsen as he clinched his inaugural Collegiate Head Coaching victory.
Reflecting on this significant milestone, Coach Poulsen emphasized the victory's profound impact on team morale. Humbly giving credit to the team, he said, "This win is a testament to the unwavering dedication and hard work of our players. It's a collective triumph that underscores the essence of teamwork."
The opening game saw the Yellowjackets take an early lead and maintain their advantage, ultimately securing a hard-fought 7-3 victory despite a spirited late-game surge from the Stars.
However, in the second game, the Stars orchestrated a remarkable resurgence. With early momentum on their side and pivotal hits from Lyndsey Hood and Avery Throckmorton, they surged to a commanding 2-0 lead. Leveraging defensive miscues from the Yellowjackets and executing aggressive baserunning, the Stars held firm, fortified by a stellar pitching performance from Elise Kendrick.
The game reached a thrilling climax as Lyndsey Hood's spectacular catch in the bottom of the seventh sealed the Stars' triumph, also marking the significant coaching milestone for Coach Poulsen.
Looking ahead, Coach Poulsen and the Stars are poised to carry this momentum into another exciting double-header series against the Yellowjackets on Sunday, Feb. 25th, at Rock Bridge High School, with game times set for noon and 2 p.m.
Stars Softball Head Coach Poulsen was presented with a game ball signed by the team in honor of his first collegiate coaching victory.