Northwest Wayne News

Wayne State University's softball team secured a significant victory against Ferris State University, achieving their first sweep in Big Rapids since 2015. The Warriors defeated the Bulldogs in two matches on Tuesday with scores of 5-2 and 3-2, securing their place in the upcoming GLIAC Tournament. This marks an important success for Wayne State, extending their current road winning streak to four games.

In the first game, Wayne State opened the scoring with back-to-back doubles by sophomore Logan Forman and freshman Elly Koopman in the first inning. Ferris State replied with two runs in the same inning, temporarily taking the lead. However, Wayne State managed to regain control in the final frame, with crucial hits from Forman and senior Rylie Josephson securing a 5-2 win. This game also highlighted the efforts of junior pitcher Hayden Batton, who allowed just two earned runs over seven innings.

The second game began as a scoreless draw until Wayne State capitalized in the third inning, with Forman driving in the first run. Despite Ferris State's attempt to level the score, back-to-back doubles by Forman and Koopman in the fifth inning ultimately gave Wayne State the edge. Junior Grace Fisher contributed significantly by holding Ferris State to two earned runs, ensuring a 3-2 victory for Wayne State.

Forman was a standout performer in both matches, showcasing a productive batting display with two hits in the first game, including an RBI, and going 3-for-3 in the second. Meanwhile, for Ferris State, Alexis Kozlowski and Emma Gillard were noteworthy with an RBI and two hits, respectively.

Wayne State's road trip continues with a doubleheader against Purdue Northwest on Friday, as they seek to maintain their momentum in the GLIAC conference competition.