Northwest Wayne News

The Wayne State University softball program will host its annual Home Run Derby on Monday, Oct. 7 at Gary L. Bryce Field starting at 10 a.m.

This year, the event will feature a revised format with the 2024-25 squad divided into three fundraising groups: Team Tartars, 313 Sluggers, and Super W's. The teams are composed of the following members:

1. Team Tartars: Maddie Hool, Hunter Near, Madison Martinez, Kennedy Cole, Hayden Batton, Abby Barnes, Molly Hool.

2. 313 Sluggers: Rylie Josephson, Mady Ruczynski, Morgan Williams, Montgomery Pepin, Kate DeWitt, Sydney Long, Lauren Fritz.

3. Super W's: Danielle Fick, Grace Fisher, Elly Koopman, Mia Hool, Logan Forman, Jessie O'Donnell.

Donors have the option to contribute to any team and can designate their donations to specific student-athletes by listing the athlete's name in the "In Honor of" section during checkout.

Each participant will be given ten swings initially. For every $20 raised above their individual goal by a student-athlete they earn an additional ball which counts as two home runs if hit over the fence.

From 10 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., Wayne State University faculty and staff can participate by purchasing swings at $20 for five swings or $5 for one swing.

Proceeds from past Home Run Derbies have supported WSU Softball through funding for travel expenses such as hotels and transportation as well as new uniforms and equipment.